Woman of Influence Awards recognises the remarkable accomplishments of women in Scotland whilst generating essential funds for Action for Children.
The event encompasses an engaging afternoon of entertainment, providing insights into the significant impact we have on children and families across the United Kingdom, as well as honouring outstanding women in their respective fields.
The 2026 event is generously sponsored by the Sir Reo Stakis Foundation.
Join us for an unforgettable afternoon hosted by the wonderful Jennifer Reoch, featuring fabulous auctioneering by Alex Fleming, spectacular entertainment, and plenty of opportunities to support a great cause!
We’re excited to share a special highlight - Callum Beattie will be performing a live set on the day, bringing an extra spark of energy and entertainment to the occasion!
Woman of Influence 2026 Finalists, sponsored by Haus of Dentistry
Professor Helen Minnis FMedSci
Professor Helen Minnis FMedSci
Helen Minnis is Professor of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at the University of Glasgow. For over 25 years, she has researched mental health and resilience in children facing severe adversity. Inspired by early work in a Guatemalan orphanage, she now leads multidisciplinary research on attachment, neurodivergence and interventions for vulnerable children.
Celia Hodson
Celia Hodson
Celia Hodson is a multi‑award‑winning social entrepreneur and founder of Hey Girls, the UK enterprise tackling period poverty through its Buy One Give One model, donating over 6.2 million products. A leading voice in menstrual equity, she helped drive Scotland’s world‑first free period products legislation and champions education, dignity and social justice.
Dr Amrit Kaur Purba
Dr Amrit Kaur Purba
Dr Amrit Kaur Purba is a social scientist and public health researcher at the University of Cambridge, leading influential work on how digital environments affect young people’s wellbeing. A Wellcome Trust Fellow, she uses innovative methods, including generative AI, and advises organisations such as the UN, Ofcom and 10 Downing Street.
Samantha Kinghorn OBE
Samantha Kinghorn OBE
Samantha Kinghorn is a world‑leading T53 wheelchair racer, Paralympic champion and disability advocate. Britain’s fastest‑ever female wheelchair sprinter, she won Paralympic gold in Paris 2024 and holds multiple world and European medals. Awarded an OBE and MBE, she inspires young people through charity work, school visits and championing disability inclusion.
Woman to Watch Winner 2026, supported by Nationwide
Dr Rachel Malcolm is Scotland’s current rugby captain, earning 62 caps, 53 as captain, making her the most‑capped Scotland skipper in history. She has led the team to a record world ranking of fifth, their first tournament win since 2001, and a nation‑best run of consecutive victories. She also captained Scotland to back‑to‑back World Cup qualifications, reaching the 2023 quarter‑finals. Off the field, Rachel holds a PhD in Sport Science and lectures at Nottingham Trent University.
For more information on the Woman of Influence Awards and how you can support, contact Preeti McGuckin: [email protected]
To enquire for a table at the 2026 event
