Forward Ladies founder Etta Cohen receives OBE

FOUNDER of women’s business organisation Forward Ladies has been made an Officer of the Officer of the British Empire.

Etta Cohen, who set up the organisation in 2000, has been given the OBE for services to women in business and entrepreneurship.

She founded Forward Ladies with the aim of unlocking potential in professional/business women. From its foundations in Yorkshire, it has now expanded to work across the country.

Initially backed by Yorkshire Forward, the regional development agency, to encourage enterprise among women, Leeds-based Etta grew Forward Ladies into one of the fastest-growing business support organisations for women, with a database of more than 13,000.

Last April she sold the organisation to business consultant and former member, Griselda Togobo, to focus on mentoring, speaking and advising start-ups. She also indulged her love of afternoon tea to launch a new food-related venture, Scones, Jam & Cream

Etta Cohen said: “I am delighted to receive an OBE; it couldn’t have happened without all the support I have received over the years.

“When I started Forward Ladies over 15 years ago, I wanted to make a positive contribution to support women in business and enable them to be more confident through knowledge, contacts, support and friendship. I share this award with each and every woman and hope it will encourage them to believe and to follow their dreams. It is truly a great honour.

Etta will be presented with her OBE, which is honorary as she is an Irish citizen, at Buckingham Palace later this year.

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