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The Underdog Won! 🏆 (And Now, Let’s Change Some Lives)

I am absolutely over the flipping moon to tell you that Co-Women won an award!!! 🎉


Yep, last Thursday night, I was up against some seriously stiff competition—the kind that makes you sweat a little (or a lot). The panel took a whopping two hours to decide, which means either (A) it was a ridiculously close call, or (B) they ran out of wine and needed time to restock. Either way, Co-Women was crowned Community of the Year at the Brighton Girl Awards!


So, why did we win? I’ve been asking myself that very question (between celebratory cups of chai, of course).


And honestly? The clue is in the name: community.


I’ve never tried to be the face of the brand—despite some very well-meaning advice. I’m happiest tinkering away in the background, connecting people, organising events, nudging members into meaningful conversations, and making sure every woman who walks through our doors feels seen, heard, and valued. Co-Women is not about me. It’s about all of us.


Winning this award isn’t just a lovely pat on the back (although I won’t lie, it feels incredible). It’s a stamp of approval that says, “Hey, this works! This matters!” And more than anything, it gives us gravitas—the kind that helps us do more, reach more, and support more women who need us.


Now that we have this award in our (very stylish, probably second-hand) trophy cabinet, it’s time to level up.


Winning this means we have even more credibility when we push for sponsored memberships—because I am more determined than ever to give women in marginalised communities a seat at the entrepreneurial table.


And here’s why this matters:


💡 Women entrepreneurs receive significantly less funding—Only 2% of venture capital investment goes to female-founded businesses. For women of colour, it’s even less. Imagine the talent and innovation we’re missing out on! (Source: Harvard Business Review)


💡 Networking can make or break a business—Studies show that having strong professional connections increases business success by up to 80%. Yet, women—especially those from underrepresented backgrounds—are far less likely to have access to these networks. (Source: Forbes)


💡 When women succeed, whole communities thrive—Women reinvest 90% of their income back into their families and local economies, compared to 30-40% for men. (Source: UN Women) That means supporting one woman can create a ripple effect that lifts up entire communities.


💡 Marginalised women face extra barriers—Women from low-income backgrounds are twice as likely to lack access to mentorship, funding, and training. (Source: British Business Bank) That’s exactly why sponsorships matter—because talent shouldn’t be wasted due to a lack of access.


💡 Representation creates generational change—Women who see role models in business are twice as likely to start businesses themselves. This isn’t just about the present—it’s about building a future where more women feel empowered to lead. (Source: Global Entrepreneurship Monitor)


Right now, we run seven of these events across Sussex every month, and we’re launching in Glasgow very soon! These gatherings are a lifeline for so many women—providing a space to network, connect, and share experiences over a cup of something warm and welcoming.


What Sponsors Get:

✨ Brand Visibility—Your company’s branding at events, on our social media, and in newsletters.

✨ Speaking Opportunities—Come and chat with our members, share your expertise, and showcase what your business stands for.

✨ Real Impact—You’re not just sponsoring an event; you’re changing lives.


So, if you (or someone you know) wants to make a tangible difference AND get some serious brand love along the way, let’s chat.


I’m the Bradford council estate underdog, baby, and the underdog won! 🥇 Now, let’s use this win to lift up as many women as we can.


📩 DM me or email jo@co-women.org to explore sponsorship opportunities.


Let’s do this!


 
 
 

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