Our Founder Michelle John has reached the finals of a prestigious awards programme which celebrates women who empower others.

Michelle is one of six women shortlisted in the Social Impact Leader of the Year category at the Novi Awards 2025, and one of just 84 female leaders across all categories whose ‘influence, vision and impact’ the judges felt were ‘creating meaningful change across industries, communities, and generations’.

This year marks the 15th anniversary of the awards, with the ceremony being held on Friday 21st November in London, alongside a leadership summit.

Organisers have chosen ‘Power with Purpose’ as 2025’s theme, celebrating women who not only excel in business, but also use their success to dismantle barriers for others – exemplifying the fact that true power comes from using influence to uplift and empower.

This ties in perfectly with Michelle’s reason for starting PEGS back in 2020. Having experienced CPA in her own life, she wanted to ‘turn her pain into power to empower others’.

Novi’s Founder says…

After revealing the finalists, Novi Founder and CEO Griselda Togobo said: “Our 2025 shortlist represents the best of what leadership can be – power used with purpose. These women are not just breaking barriers; they are dismantling them, building bridges, and reshaping what inclusive leadership looks like.



“As we mark 15 years of the Novi Awards, it’s powerful to see past winners return as mentors, judges, and even sponsors – a true demonstration of progress and of women paying it forward.”

Michelle says…

“I’m delighted to have been recognised among a list of truly inspiring women whose work quite literally changes lives every day. It might sound cliché, but it’s the absolute truth that none of what PEGS does would be possible without not only my incredible team, but also the thousands of parents who turn to us for support. PEGS is about them, and for them – the reason we work so hard every day, in order to ensure they feel heard, believed and empowered.

“I always wanted to turn my own experience into something positive and empowering for others – so being shortlisted for the Novi Awards in a year when the theme aligns so perfectly with my personal mission is extra special.”

About Novi

Novi’s mission is to elevate women’s voices and amplify their impact. Its global membership spans both private and public sectors, including some of the world’s biggest organisations. As part of the organisation’s commitment to recognising excellence, their annual flagship event, The Novi Awards, celebrates women breaking barriers and shaping a more inclusive future of business.

You can find the full shortlist here, and be sure to follow PEGS on social media for updates about the awards ceremony itself!