Shelley Otway-Wood of Wokingham’s Steppin Out Stars of Tomorrow has been named the winner of a silver Stevie award in the Best Female Entrepreneur – Consumer Services – 10 or Less Employees category in the 21st annual Stevie awards for Women in Business.
The Stevie awards for Women in Business honour the achievements of women
executives, entrepreneurs, employees, and the companies they run–worldwide.
The Stevie award has been hailed as the world’s premier business award.
Nicknamed the Stevies for the Greek word for “crowned,” the awards were presented to winners during a gala event attended by nominees and their guests at the
Marriott Marquis Hotel in New York City.
More than 1,500 entries from organisations and individuals in 36 nations and territories were submitted this year for consideration in more than 100 categories.
Steppin Out Stars of Tomorrow won in the Best Female Entrepreneur category for Consumer Services – 10 or Less Employees category.
The judges said: “Shelley Otway-Wood has demonstrated remarkable growth and resilience in her children’s theatre school, expanding to several hundred students which is very impressive.
“Her professional background lends credibility to the program, whilst her adaptability during crises is commendable.
“Shelley’s commitment to accessibility through flexible payment plans and frozen fees shows strong community focus.
“Her success in placing students in professional productions and achieving a 100% success rate for drama college admissions is again impressive.
“The school’s emphasis on pastoral care and mental health support further highlights Shelley’s holistic approach to nurturing young talent.
“A strong nomination in an individual awards category.”
Shelley said to win a silver Stevie award was: “The icing on the cake after an incredible night, and the chance to network with other likeminded businesses across the world.”
She added how grateful she was to her PA for helping her with her nomination, her team and her new business coach Katie Cannon who has been with her throughout the last eight months.
Steppin Out Stars Of Tomorrow run classes in dance, drama, singing, ballet and tap for 4 to 17 year olds at the Emmbrook Senior School in Wokingham on Saturdays and at the Bulmershe Senior School in Woodley on Thursdays and Fridays.
