On June 19 2025, in the beautiful surroundings of the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh, EMMS International and RCPE hosted the Global Women in Healthcare Awards 2025 to celebrate the global impact of women working in healthcare.​
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Hosted by journalist Halla Mohieddeen, the event recognised and celebrated women who are transforming health systems, empowering others, and championing equity across the globe. The Awards recognise the value of women in all roles who contribute to better health within their communities and beyond, and celebrate professionals who are dedicated to their work in health and healthcare and strive for excellence.
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The night featured moving poetry, soulful music and reflections from global health leaders including Dr Cathy Ratcliff, Dr Kerri Baker and Dr Amrita Shrestha. There was also a chance to support future healthcare by raising funds for EMMS’ Healthcare Career Pathways programme for young women.
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The highlight of the evening was the presentation of six prestigious awards. We are delighted to share the winners and runners-up, and to congratulate them once more.
The Global Women in Healthcare Awards 2025​
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Outstanding Leader Award
​Supporting other women in their healthcare careers
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Winner: Professor Elmi Muller​
Recognised for her work to drive the adoption of a new minimum standard for inclusion of sex and gender in science, changing the face of medical and social research in the UK.
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Prof. Muller is aSouth African transplant surgeon, pioneering HIV-positive-to-positive organ transplants; Dean of Medicine at Stellenbosch University; global leader in transplantation ethics and innovation.
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Runner-Up: Dr Henrietta Hughes
Recognised for her advocacy and mentorship contributions to push for equity and leadership opportunities for women in medicine while championing the rights of patients and carers.
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Dr Hughes is the first Patient Safety Commissioner for England, advocate for patient safety, systemic reform, and women’s leadership in healthcare. Known for initiatives like Martha’s Rule and speaking on equity.
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Health Tech Award
Honouring innovation in health technology and digital education.
Winner: Dr Andrea Taylor
In recognition of outstanding leadership in healthcare innovation. As CEO of Edinburgh Innovations, she has transformed health tech commercialisation, driving major growth in startups, investment, and strategic partnerships. Her work bridges cutting-edge research with real-world impact, advancing digital solutions for urgent healthcare challenge.
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Runner-Up: Dr Shera Chok
In recognition of her pioneering work in promoting diversity in digital health. As co-founder of the Shuri Network, she has empowered thousands of minority women to lead and innovate, advancing more inclusive, equitable, and patient-centred digital healthcare across the UK.
Dr Shera Chok (r) &
Sarah Gibson, Programmes Director, EMMS International
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Dr Elsie Inglis Award
Championing sex equality in the medical profession.
Winners: Dr Becky Cox & Dr Chelcie Jewitt
Dr Becky Cox & Dr Chelcie Jewitt are recognised for their bold leadership in tackling sexism and sexual harassment in healthcare. Through their “Surviving in Scrubs” campaign, they’ve created a powerful platform for survivors, driven policy change, and championed a safer, more equitable environment for women in medicine.
Runner-Up: Saffron Roberts
In recognition of her powerful advocacy on behalf of young women in healthcare. Through pioneering research and policy influence, she has highlighted the systemic barriers facing disabled and marginalised women, advancing a more inclusive, intersectional, and responsive approach to healthcare equality.
Dr Chelcie Jewitt (r) &
Dr Amrit Shrestha
Rising Star Award
Recognising emerging talent and dedication in early-career healthcare professionals.
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Winner: Dr Shushan Hovsepyan
Dr Shushan Hovsepyan won the Rising Star Award for her groundbreaking work transforming cancer care in Armenia and advancing global paediatric oncology. From launching Armenia’s first oncology clinical trials to leading international research initiatives, she is a bold, compassionate innovator whose leadership is already shaping a more equitable future in cancer care.
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Runner-Up: Dr Loey Lung-Yi Mak
Dr Loey Lung-Yi Mak in recognition of her exceptional contributions to liver health and medical education in Hong Kong. A pioneering young hepatologist, she has led community outreach for hepatitis C micro-elimination, published extensively, and championed innovation in clinical care, public health, and immersive medical training
Dr Shushan Hovsepyan (r) &
Dr Amrita Shrestha
Lifetime Achievement Award
Celebrating a career of excellence, compassion, and service.
Winner: Dr Dame Anna Felicja Dominiczak
Dr Dame Anna Felicja Dominiczak is honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award for her groundbreaking contributions to cardiovascular and precision medicine, and her transformative leadership in research, education, and innovation. As the UK’s first female Regius Professor of Medicine and Chief Scientist for Health in Scotland, she has shaped healthcare at home and abroad.
Runner-Up: Professor Anna Glasier
Professor Anna Glasier is awarded runner-up for the Lifetime Achievement Award for her lifelong dedication to advancing women’s sexual and reproductive health. As Scotland’s first Women’s Health Champion, her pioneering research, policy leadership, and advocacy have transformed healthcare services, championed gender equity, and ensured women’s voices shape the future of health systems in Scotland and beyond.
Dr Anna Glasier (r) &
Dr Amrita Shrestha