ASIAN women who have battled against the odds to get to the top are being sought for the first ever Asian Women of Achievement Awards.

From doctors and musicians to care workers and barristers East Lancashire's Asian women who have overcome adversity to forge out a place for themselves at the top of their chosen fields could be in line for the prestigious award.

The awards are the brainchild of businesswoman Pinky Lilani, who after her involvement with the European Women of Achievement Awards decided it was time to recognise and celebrate the success of Asian women in the UK.

Pinky said: "After having worked both in the charity and business worlds, it suddenly occurred to me that there are hundreds if not thousands of women who have fought against the odds of their culture, society and family expectations to carve out a valuable role for themselves.

"These women are the backbone of the community, and more importantly play a key role in the success of the UK economy. We are about to move into a new century, and I simply felt that it was high time Asian women were recognised for their work." The judging panel for the awards includes Burnley-born Shami Ahmed, founder and chairman of Joe Bloggs, and Jackie Kernaghan, winner of the 1998 European Women of Achievement Awards.

Shami Ahmed said: "It was a great honour to be asked on to the judging panel of these pioneering awards. Working so closely with my sister, who is one such Asian women of achievement, I feel it is high time that they were acclaimed for all their hard work and commitment."

If you know any Asian women whose hard work deserves to be rewarded and would like to nominate them then please call Media Moguls on 0181 902 5575. The closing date for nominations is September 15.

The Asian Women of Achievement Awards ceremony will take place on Wednesday October 21 at the Grosvenor House Hotel in London.

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