Drakes Jewellery Champions Inspirational Women at the Devon & Cornwall Venus Awards
Plymouth’s esteemed independent jewellery retailer, Drakes, proudly demonstrated its commitment to community and empowerment by backing the highly significant Inspirational Woman category at the 2019 Devon and Cornwall Venus Awards. This prestigious sponsorship underscored Drakes’ dedication to celebrating the remarkable achievements and contributions of women across the region, culminating in an unforgettable awards ceremony that shone a spotlight on true beacons of inspiration.
A Night of Triumph and Celebration: The 2019 Venus Awards Ceremony
The grand reveal of the winners took place at the exquisite St Mellion International Resort on Friday, March 29, 2019. Guests gathered for an evening filled with anticipation, camaraderie, and celebration, enjoying a sumptuous three-course meal and captivating entertainment. The atmosphere was electric, honouring the diverse talents and profound impacts of working women who often go unrecognised for their extraordinary efforts. Dubbed the ‘working woman’s Oscars’ by Channel 4, the Venus Awards stand as a testament to the power and potential of women in business and beyond, providing a vital platform to applaud and reward those who truly deserve recognition for their amazing contributions to society.
The Journey to Inspiration: A Rigorous Selection Process
The path to selecting the Inspirational Woman of the Year was a testament to the incredible wealth of talent and dedication present in Devon and Cornwall. Drakes, as the proud sponsor of this category, faced the challenging yet rewarding task of navigating through an impressive field of nominees. Initially, a staggering 75 nominations were received, each highlighting a woman whose story could profoundly move and motivate others. This initial pool was then meticulously narrowed down to five exceptional semi-finalists, whose names were joyously announced at a special event held in January.
The engagement continued as Drakes had the distinct privilege of meeting all five of these incredible semi-finalists. This personal interaction allowed the team to gain deeper insights into their unique journeys, their challenges, and their unwavering resolve. From this outstanding group, three deserving finalists were then carefully selected, with their names revealed during an elegant afternoon tea reception in February. Each stage of this process served not only to narrow down the candidates but also to amplify the stories of all the women involved, reinforcing the collective spirit of achievement and inspiration that defines the Venus Awards.
Alison Jordan: A Deserving Winner and a Beacon of Hope
The climax of the Inspirational Woman category arrived on the night of the awards ceremony, where one individual was ultimately declared the winner. The coveted prize was awarded to Alison Jordan, the remarkable founder of Pete’s Dragons, a profoundly vital charity dedicated to providing bereavement support to those who have lost a loved one to suicide. Alison’s journey is one of immense courage and compassion, transforming personal tragedy into a lifeline of hope and assistance for countless others in similar heart-wrenching situations. Her unwavering dedication to her charity and the profound impact it has on the community truly embodies the spirit of an inspirational woman.
Pete’s Dragons was established by Alison in memory of her brother, Pete, who tragically took his own life. Faced with the devastating aftermath of suicide, Alison identified a critical need for specialised support services for bereaved families, a need that was often overlooked or inadequately addressed. What began as a personal mission has blossomed into a professional, compassionate charity offering holistic support, including counselling, practical advice, and a safe community for those grappling with loss. The charity’s work helps to break down the stigma surrounding suicide, encouraging open dialogue and ensuring that individuals and families receive the care and understanding they desperately need during their darkest times. Alison Jordan’s ability to channel her grief into such a powerful force for good is an extraordinary example of resilience and altruism, making her an exceptionally deserving recipient of the Inspirational Woman award.
Drakes’ Enduring Commitment to Community and Empowerment
Jennifer Manning, Director at Drakes, expressed immense enthusiasm and pride regarding their involvement with the 2019 Venus Women in Business Devon and Cornwall Awards. “We have absolutely loved being a sponsor of these awards,” she commented, reflecting on the entire journey from the awards’ launch to the final celebratory event. “Right through from the launch of the awards last year to the final event, we have been in awe of just how many incredible women surround us in our local communities. Sponsoring the Inspirational Woman category gave us the chance to meet so many amazing women who all deserve to win in their own way.”
Manning further highlighted the emotional resonance of the awards ceremony. “The Awards Ceremony was the perfect evening to celebrate all the successes and achievements of these fantastic women, we only wish we could have picked all three of our finalists to win! All of us at Drakes felt incredibly moved by how Alison had turned such a tragic life event into something that continues to spread positivity and support. Congratulations to all the winners!” Her words underscore Drakes’ genuine admiration for the nominees and winners, and their deep-seated belief in the importance of acknowledging and uplifting the impactful work of women in the region. This sponsorship is a clear reflection of Drakes’ core values, demonstrating their role not just as a prominent independent retailer but also as a dedicated community partner, actively contributing to the social fabric and economic vitality of Devon and Cornwall.
For Drakes, this sponsorship goes beyond mere brand visibility; it’s an investment in the human spirit and the local community. It aligns perfectly with their philosophy of fostering an environment where talent is recognised, hard work is celebrated, and inspiration thrives. By supporting events like the Venus Awards, Drakes contributes to creating a positive ripple effect, encouraging more women to pursue their ambitions and inspiring others through their success stories. This dedication to corporate social responsibility not only strengthens Drakes’ connection with its customers but also plays a vital role in building a more supportive and appreciative community for all.
The Lasting Impact of Recognition for Pete’s Dragons
Alison Jordan, a truly deserving winner, articulated her hopes for the increased visibility and recognition that the award would bring to Pete’s Dragons. She firmly believes that this prestigious accolade will significantly amplify awareness of the charity’s crucial services. In her words, she hopes that winning the award “would bring more attention and recognition to the charity, meaning that those who are in need of a bereavement service but have not heard of Pete’s Dragons are more likely to know about it and get the help they need.”
This increased public awareness is invaluable for a charity like Pete’s Dragons, operating in an area often shrouded in silence and misunderstanding. Enhanced recognition can lead to a surge in referrals, enabling the charity to reach more individuals and families struggling with the devastating impact of suicide. Furthermore, greater visibility often translates into increased opportunities for funding, partnerships, and volunteer support, all of which are essential for expanding the charity’s reach and enhancing the quality of its services. The Venus Award, therefore, is not merely a personal triumph for Alison Jordan but a strategic victory for Pete’s Dragons, paving the way for sustained growth and a broader impact on mental health and bereavement support in the community. It reinforces the idea that an individual’s courage and dedication, when celebrated, can create a powerful wave of positive change for an entire cause.
Looking Forward: Sustaining Inspiration and Support
The 2019 Devon and Cornwall Venus Awards, particularly the Inspirational Woman category sponsored by Drakes, served as a powerful reminder of the incredible strength, innovation, and compassion exhibited by women throughout the region. The success of the event, the heartfelt stories shared, and the deserved recognition of figures like Alison Jordan underscore the vital importance of such initiatives. These awards not only celebrate individual achievements but also foster a collective sense of pride and a supportive ecosystem for women in all sectors. Drakes Jewellery’s continued commitment to championing these causes sets a commendable example for other businesses, illustrating how corporate engagement can profoundly enrich local communities and empower future generations of inspirational leaders.
As the echoes of the 2019 ceremony fade, the impact of Drakes’ sponsorship and Alison Jordan’s inspiring work with Pete’s Dragons will undoubtedly continue to resonate, inspiring more acts of kindness, resilience, and community support. The legacy of these awards is in the stories they tell and the lives they change, reinforcing the message that every woman’s contribution, no matter how big or small, holds the power to inspire and uplift an entire community.
NewsSource: professionaljeweller