Today, at the Women Angels Conference 2026 in Leeds, we are proud to recognise the people and deals that have shaped our community over the past year.
From first time angels to seasoned leaders, these awards shine a light on those who have gone above and beyond to support founders, back bold ideas, and strengthen our Lifted Angel Network
Here are our winners and runners up of our Lifted Women Angels Awards 2026
Angel of the Year
Winner: Sandra Patel
Sandra has been a standout force in our community. Her commitment, insight, and willingness to share her knowledge have made a real difference to both founders and fellow angels. She embodies what it means to lead by example and continues to raise the bar for our network.
Runner up: Shkun Chadda & Helen Whitfield
Shkun and Helen have both made an incredible impact this year. Their thoughtful approach to investing, support for founders, and active engagement across the syndicate have not gone unnoticed. A very well deserved recognition.
Deal of the Year
Winner: xigxag
This award recognises a deal that brought our angels together and showcased the power of collaboration.
Congratulations to the angels involved:
Anica Alvarez, Sophie Brown, Michelle Dalton, Suzanne Donovan, Helen Toft, Helen Whitfield, Kelda Style, Sandra Patel, Marverine Cole, Jordan Dargue and Helen Oldham.
And a huge shout out to xigxag co-founder, Kelli Fairbrother, for her dedication in raising investment for xigxag and bringing investors on board with clarity and confidence
Co-investment Round of the Year
Winner: WAC
This round demonstrated the strength of our collective approach and the impact we can make when we invest together.
Well done to the angels involved:
Jordan Dargue, Shkun Chadda, Sandra Patel, Arabel Bailey, Suzanne Donovan, Beth Crosier and Tracy Stones.
And congratulations to the founder, Georgina Fairhall, for enabling a smooth, collaborative process for all involved.
Angel Ambassador of the Year
Winner: Suzanne Donovan
Suzanne truly lives and breathes the Women Angels community. She goes above and beyond to champion our mission, welcome new angels and connect people across the Lifted Angel Network. Her energy, generosity and leadership have enriched our ecosystem and inspired others to get involved.
Runner up: Anica Alvarez Nishio
Anica is a natural connector and advocate. Her passion for supporting others and strengthening the Lifted Angel Community community has made a lasting impact. A hugely deserving runner up!
Angel Newcomer of the Year
Winner: Kelda Style
Kelda has hit the ground running. Her curiosity, engagement and confidence as a new angel have been brilliant to see. She represents the future of our network and what is possible when new voices are welcomed and supported.
Runner up: Anica Alvarez Nishio
Anica’s journey as a newcomer has been nothing short of impressive. Her enthusiasm, commitment and willingness to step forward have set a powerful example for new angels joining the syndicate.
Thank you to our community
These awards are a celebration of everything that makes Women Angels special. Collaboration. Curiosity. Generosity. And a shared commitment to backing women and building something meaningful together.
Congratulations to all our winners, runners up, and nominees. And thank you to every angel and founder who continues to make our Lifted community so powerful in such a short space of time!
