Co-Founder of Bridge, Dr. Shannon May (above) has won a prestigious Business Women of the Year award. She is one of only three 2018 winners from Africa. The award comes on the back of Bridge being selected as a top ten employer in Africa.

The Business Women of the Year Award ‘celebrates women who are driving forward business and equality, in their organisation and beyond. It is a celebration of female leaders re-defining business today and tomorrow.’ The awards have recognised  leaders from across the world including global organisations like IBM and Kenyan ones such as Seed Engine.

Bridge is proud that its co-founder is among the 2018 award winners, particularly because of the fundamental importance it places on girls education and empowerment.

Dr. Shannon May says: “I am so grateful that through this award Bridge is being recognised as a partner in pushing for equality and inspiring girls to fulfil their potential.”

As part of its work in impoverished communities Bridge is dedicated to creating opportunities for girls. A key element of this is the development and support of female role models in its communities and schools. Over 60% of teachers in Bridge schools are female, showing girls that there is a place for women not only in the classroom but at the front of the classroom. Innovative initiatives like the ‘Super Mama’ programme see women as change makers in the community demanding better educational opportunities and outcomes for their children.

Thanks to these role models Bridge girls are going on to excel, representing their countries in international competitions; winning prestigious scholarships to US schools and outperforming boys in national exams.

The Business Women of the Year Award is an extension of the role that all Bridge women play – teachers, School Leaders, parents, Super Mamas and employees – every day. It is a wonderful recognition of those at Bridge who work day in and day out to ensure that girls not only have the opportunity to fulfil their potential but believe in their right to fulfil that opportunity.