We’re delighted to announce that NYAS CEO, Rita Waters has been recognised as the ‘Business Leader of the Year’ at the Merseyside Woman of the Year Awards 2019.

The awards, which were presented at a special ceremony in Liverpool on 28th June, are designed to find and reward the unsung heroines of Merseyside, recognising their achievements in helping change lives for the better. The Business Leader of the Year category places a spotlight on women who have made a significant contribution to the local economy and the business community.

A host of highly accomplished women were celebrated at the awards this year. Rita was selected by an expert judging panel for her unfaltering commitment to ensuring NYAS achieves its mission in making a difference to the lives of thousands of vulnerable children and young people. Under Rita’s direction, the NYAS team is dedicated to helping children and young people understand their rights, making sure their voices are heard when important decisions are being made about their future.

During her three years at the NYAS helm, Rita has helped to broaden our charity’s reach, heighten efficiency and strengthen our influence. Her achievements include relocating the NYAS National Helpline from Birmingham to Wirral – where it now receives more than 25,000 contacts annually, securing new contracts, attracting new private sector funding for the charity and strengthening NYAS’ presence in Wales under the NYAS Cymru brand.

Commenting on the award, Rita said, “It’s fantastic to be recognised by an event that is intended to celebrate the achievements of women and help to leave a legacy of female role models for future generations. I’m humbled to be sharing the awards spotlight with some truly inspirational women and am very grateful to be part of the NYAS team, without whom this award would not be possible.

“Importantly, securing this award will help to build NYAS’ profile, further strengthening our influence when it comes to campaigning for positive change on behalf of children and young people. ”