Nominations for the 11th Asian Women of Achievement Awards close on 5th March 2010. Founded and chaired by Indian born author and entrepreneur Pinky Lilani OBE, and held in association with Lloyds Banking Group, the awards celebrate often unsung female icons of Asian origin and their vibrant contribution to all aspects of Britain’s multicultural society. Previous winners include Eastenders actress Nina Wadia, BBC London anchor Riz Lateef, CEO of MITIE Group, Ruby McGregor-Smith, and world-leading academic Professor Xiangqian Jang.

Last year’s ceremony was attended by Their Royal Highnesses the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall, patron of the awards Cherie Blair, entrepreneur and ‘Dragon’ James Caan, and actress Meera Syal. Judges this year include, Mary Hockaday, head of TV, Radio and Online, BBC; Sir Nicholas Young, chief executive of the British Red Cross, and Sarah Churchman, head of diversity, PricewaterhouseCoopers.

Pinky Lilani said: “The Asian Women of Achievement Awards are both a barometer of social change and an important platform for Asian women. Since their launch in 1999, there has been a real shift in public perceptions of Asian female achievement but there is still much more we need to do. It is vital that we identify and celebrate exceptional Asian women who symbolise Britain’s diverse society and play a crucial role in bringing passion and commitment to British economic, social and cultural life.”

The closing date for entries is 5 March 2010, with the awards ceremony taking place at the London Hilton on 19 May 2010. For information on how to enter the awards visit: www.awaawards.com