Winner Tahira Widlof, Store Manager, Asda shares her thoughts on her Award.

Whilst I was pleasantly surprised at my nomination in the Business Category, I was full of pride at being a finalist, but totally overwhelmed at winning the Chairman’s award. It has opened my eyes to some real opportunity – not just for me, but for Asian women everywhere.

The biggest benefit from winning the Chairman’s Award is the recognition and understanding that I, seriously, can make a difference. I’ve been introduced to the work of Mosaic, the Prince of Wales’ charity and I am now getting involved in influencing young people in making life changing career and lifestyle choices. I am really excited at the difference that I can make – an opportunity which would certainly not have been there had I not been a part of Asian Women of Achievement.

Since the Awards evening, I have been coming to terms with the enormity of the responsibility of being a role model. Words come rushing to my head – words that people have used to describe me. Words like committed; tenacious; a good listener; a great mentor – and I can see the relevance to being a good role model. But then I think of maverick; head strong; knowing my own mind – and I start to get nervous about my suitability. My friends and colleagues rallied round and of course they have a different take on things, saying that it is precisely these qualities which enable me to push boundaries, to ask searching questions and to pursue a course of action because it is the right thing to do.

I have been inundated by well-wishers, some of whom I haven’t met prior to winning the award. I received a beautifully penned letter from the local communities where I work, saying how proud they were and how well-deserved the Chairman’s Award was. This really does emphasise the new sphere of influence which winners of the Asian Women of Achievement awards enjoy. It’s up to us to exploit this opportunity and deliver the key message that my Puppo gave to me. “There’s nothing you cannot achieve if you put your mind to it”. Your limits are not defined by paper qualification, more they are defined by the passion of your ambition. One thing I have learned is that the most powerful tool in my arsenal to inspire, persuade and convince others is passion. If I can get people to voice their ambitions with true passion, then I will truly have fulfilled my role as part of Asian Women of Achievement.

I am mightily proud of this award. I know that all the winners have described the elation and the whole experience as a dream come true. I have still to come down from my cloud.