JULIANNE PONAN MBE NAMED BUSINESS WOMAN OF THE YEAR AT EVAS 2025
Julianne Ponan MBE, founder of allergy-friendly food brand Creative Nature, has been crowned Business Woman of the Year at the 2025 Enterprise Vision Awards (EVAS).
Held at the Winter Gardens in Blackpool, the awards brought together entrepreneurs and leaders from across the UK to celebrate female achievement in business. With over £53.6 billion of business represented in the room, the event once again reinforced its position as the UK’s largest celebration of women in enterprise.
Julianne’s journey from allergy survivor to business leader has made her one of the most recognisable advocates for change in the food industry. Her brand Creative Nature is transforming how companies approach allergy-friendly products, offering consumers greater choice and raising awareness of the challenges faced by those with life-threatening conditions.
Judges praised Ponan as “a pioneering leader whose confidence and passion are at the heart of her success. Her personal story is inspiring and fuels a business with real purpose. She is fearless in finding solutions, committed to her brand and industry, and a champion for others. Her journey deserves to be celebrated.”
Steve Sorah, Sales & Marketing Director at Trident, which sponsored the award, added: “Being part of the judging process has been a real privilege. The standard of entries was outstanding, and we’re delighted to celebrate the women whose passion and impact are driving businesses forward.”
Celebrating Female Entrepreneurs Nationwide
Now in its 14th year, the EVAS continues to shine a spotlight on trailblazers, campaigners and innovators whose work extends far beyond financial success. Coral Horn, Founder of EVAS, said: “This year has shown just how powerful the EVAS community can be. From taking the awards to Westminster, to introducing carer and Pay It Forward tickets, and leading a campaign against period poverty with WUKA. These awards are about more than trophies, they’re about role models, legacy and the future of women in business.”
Other winners included Jane Knight, founder of Successful Mums Career Academy in Bromley, who won the prestigious Training & Coaching Award. Since launching her academy, Knight has supported more than 10,000 women to rebuild their confidence, regain career momentum and secure financial independence. On receiving the award, she said: “Winning the EVAS Training and Coaching Award is incredibly special. For me, it’s always been about giving women the confidence to step back into the workplace and create careers that work for them and their families. To be recognised for that is truly an honour.”
Ruth Roberts of ApconiX took home the Outstanding Achievement Award for her groundbreaking work challenging bias and changing industry norms, while ex-Paralympian Claire Buckle of Ability Consultancy NW was recognised as Inspirational Woman of the Year for her efforts in helping others overcome adversity.
A Legacy of Inspiration
Looking ahead, demand for participation continues to grow. Entries for #EVAS2026 will open on 16 October, with women from across London and the UK encouraged to share their journeys. As organisers emphasise, every story deserves to be seen, celebrated, and supported.
For a full list of winners and more information, visit Enterprise Vision Awards.
