LOCAL ENTREPRENEUR AS A FINALIST IN THE BEST BUSINESSWOMAN AWARDS 2025

The finalists for the prestigious Best Businesswomen Awards 2025 have been revealed, highlighting the grit, innovation, and leadership of women who are redefining success in business.

In a year marked by economic shifts, technological disruption, and continued pressure on work-life balance, female entrepreneurs have once again stepped up with remarkable resilience. These women haven’t just survived; they’ve adapted, innovated, and thrived, often while navigating the additional demands that come with being women in business in 2025. The judging panel was inspired by the level of tenacity, creativity, and strategic thinking demonstrated across all entries. Each finalist is an outstanding example of what it means to lead with both purpose and performance in today's everevolving entrepreneurial landscape.

The Best Businesswomen Awards were established to recognise and celebrate the achievements of women across all industries. These awards celebrate the achievements of women who are not only building successful businesses but also breaking down barriers, creating impact, and inspiring others to follow.

Local entrepreneur Sophie Goffin, founder of The Purry Godmother, has been shortlisted as a finalist in the Best Businesswoman in Animal Services category. Setting out to bring pampered cats and their worried, hard-working Pawrents a more luxurious experience of holiday cat care- Premium StayCATion Experiences. Cats receive their own “Disney-World” inspired adventure time in the comfort of their own homes whilst their Pawrents can feel completely relaxed and reassured on their holiday.

Debbie Gilbert, founder of the Best Businesswomen Awards, said:

“This is the 11th year of these awards, and once again, we’ve seen an incredible calibre of entries. Despite the mounting pressures faced by women in business, from funding gaps to rising costs to the mental load of balancing life and leadership, these finalists have shown that female entrepreneurship is stronger than ever. Our judging panel was truly impressed by the standard of entries, and we’re proud to shine a light on these trailblazing women.”

Sophie said: “I’m utterly thrilled to have been shortlisted in my first year of applying for this award! It really helps to reaffirm that the work I’m doing is really helping a lot of cats- especially those that struggle more with anxiety or extreme shyness. Huge thanks go to my wonderful clients for believing in me, it certainly wouldn’t be possible without their support!”

The winners will be announced at the Gala Awards Night at the Daventry Court Hotel, Daventry, on 10th October 2025 when the Gold Winners in each category will be revealed.

M For Money Credit Union Shortlisted For National Award

Hillingdon Chamber of Commerce member, M for Money Credit Union, is proud to share that it has been shortlisted for the Best Short Loan Provider category at the 2025 Consumer Credit Awards, hosted by Smart Money People –the UK’s largest financial services review platform.

What makes these awards particularly meaningful is that they are driven entirely by customer feedback. To be named a finalist is a strong reflection of the positive experience and trust that members have in M for Money’s services.

One member shared: “They’re always so lovely to deal with. Any queries you have, they resolve within the same day… I feel secure and safe that I have a loan with this company because it also allows me to save money alongside the loan too.”

Another long-standing member said: “Saving a few pounds every month is a great way to save towards Christmas or a holiday… I feel elated when I realise I’m ahead of the game and can enjoy something nice. I’ve been saving with the credit union for 20 years now and can certainly recommend it.”

The credit union provides ethical, affordable financial services to members who are living or working across Hillingdon, Harrow, Buckinghamshire (including Milton Keynes; Chiltern), Berkshire, Brent, and surrounding areas. As a not-for-profit organisation, M for Money reinvests profits to support its members' financial wellbeing — offering access to savings and loans, even for those who might be overlooked by mainstream lenders.

For employers, partnering with a credit union like M for Money is a practical way to support staff wellbeing. Through payroll deduction schemes and financial education, businesses can help employees build financial resilience, reduce stress, and access responsible credit when needed.

Speaking on the finalist announcement, Jacqueline Dewey, Chief Executive of Smart Money People, said:

"Congratulations to all the companies who’ve reached the finalist stage in this year’s Consumer Credit Awards. These awards are driven entirely by customer feedback collected with our reviews, so being shortlisted is a real reflection of the positive experiences they’re delivering in the credit industry."

Being shortlisted among some of the best in the industry is a noteworthy achievement and a testament to M for Money’s commitment to its members.