Simone founded We Are PoWEr in 2015 and went on to found the Northern Power Women Awards in 2016, which is now recognised as the largest celebration of gender equality in Europe. The awards honour role models and trailblazers, championing the pursuit of a more gender-equal world. In recognition of her work, Simone was awarded an MBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours in 2018 for services to gender equality.

Grown from the beginnings of Northern Power Women, We Are PoWEr is now the umbrella brand encompassing the Northern Power Women Awards and PoWEr Collective CIC. Its mission is to accelerate gender equality, wider inclusion, and social mobility, creating a brighter future for all and creating a sense of belonging across the UK and beyond.

With a community of over 120,000, We Are PoWEr spans all sectors, genders, and socio-economic groups. It delivers thought-provoking webinars and podcasts on current societal issues, while spotlighting role models and opening up conversations around business, entrepreneurship, and leadership.

The Northern Power Women Awards recognise role models, organisations, changemakers, trailblazers, and advocates year after year, who are driving lasting positive change.

PoWEr Collective CIC drives social impact through regular Power Up Networking sessions that connect future talent with industry leaders, the PoWEr Pack, which bridges the gap between education and employment, and regional PoWEr Exchange events featuring high-profile speakers who inspire communities and organisations to share knowledge and amplify their impact.