Eileen Murphy, CEO of Women’s Aid Armagh Down (WAAD) has been shortlisted for the prestigious ‘Inspiring Leader of the Year’ Award at the CO3 Annual Leadership Award. The annual awards sponsored by Evelyn Partners, recognise the great leaders that work across the community and voluntary sector in Northern Ireland.

In the introduction to the ‘Inspiring Leader’ award the CO3 team said, ‘in this category we recognise inspirational leadership that stands out above the rest. The winner will communicate a clear purpose and vision with passion, enthusiasm, and energy. Finalists in this category will be exemplars of excellence.’

Eileen Murphy has been the CEO of Women’s Aid Armagh Down for 20 years, working tirelessly to support thousands of women and children locally who are the victims of domestic abuse. In the year where Women’s Aid Armagh Down is shortly due to launch its 40^th anniversary celebrations, it is truly fitting that Eileen’s work in going above and beyond has been acknowledged.

Eileen’s team nominated her, without her knowledge as they knew she would never put herself forward for such an accolade.

Eileen said, “It was a real shock but a lovely message to receive. It would be really great to win in our 40th year – what a message that would mean to WAAD.  Regardless of the outcome, it is a wonderful tribute and I truly appreciate it.”

The Awards take place in the Europa Hotel in Belfast on Thursday 23 March. Women’s Aid Armagh Down will launch its 40^th Anniversary celebrations in April 2023.