Several JU alumni nominated for Young Female Leader of the Year

For the eleventh year running, female leaders in Jönköping County are being recognised through the Young Female Leader of the Year award. The selection process is now complete, and 22 inspiring women have been nominated – several with connections to Jönköping University (JU).

“I am extremely happy to be nominated and consider it an honour. I am passionate about leadership and people and see the nomination as a nice confirmation – a little pat on the back that confirms that I am on the right track and gives me energy to move forward,” says Martina Bäck, HR manager at Hooks Herrgård and former student at the School of Education and Communication.

The Young Female Leader of the Year award exists to highlight good role models who can inspire others to become the leaders of the future. The long-term goal is to increase the proportion of women among the county's leaders, entrepreneurs and on company boards in Jönköping County.

“Young Female Leader of the Year is a very relevant award that the university has been involved in for many years. It is very gratifying that several of the nominees are students and alumni from Jönköping University. It is proof that our programmes develop talented individuals who make a significant contribution in the workplace,” says Anders Jonzon, Director of Communications at JU.

“Women need to encourage and be proud of each other”

Another of the nominees is Eveline Eskengren, Marketing Manager at Wettersol and an alumna of Jönköping International Business School. She believes that the Young Female Leader of the Year award shows that leadership is not defined by one single model, but rather is expressed in many different forms and contexts.

"The Young Female Leader of the Year award highlights the breadth of leadership and reminds us of the importance of encouraging and being proud of each other. It is important that women continue to dare to seek the roles they want, believe in their competence and be proud of what they contribute. Organisations need to continue to welcome, encourage and seek diversity, because when different perspectives and personalities are given space, stronger teams and better results are created," says Eveline Eskengren.

Education is a springboard for career

Martina Bäck points out that education has been very important for her career in HR, and also for her personal development.

"JU and the Personnel Programme, as it was called at the time, was the starting point. The programme gave me a wealth of knowledge and opportunities that I have used – and still use. Everything from communication, leadership and strategy to daring to learn new things, relearning, challenging and, of course, working with people in all their diversity," says Martina.

On 4 March, three people will receive special recognition when the winners of this year's categories are announced:Leader of the Year, Entrepreneur of the Year, and Up-and-Coming Board Talent of the Year.

The award ceremony will take place at Science Park Towers. JU is involved in and supports the project, which is run by Science Park, the Chamber of Commerce and Region Jönköping County.

Read more about the award and see all the nominees. External link, opens in new window.