Prime Highlights
- Megan Hems received the Rising Star of the Year award at the Women in Business Awards 2026 for her work addressing loneliness among adults.
- The recognition highlights the impact of her community initiative, Activity Angels CIC, in building social connections and improving wellbeing in Warrington.
Key Facts
- The awards ceremony was held on March 28, 2026, at the Bolton Whites Hotel Premier Suite, with over 2,000 nominations, more than 180 finalists, and 37 winners.
- Activity Angels CIC, founded in 2024, offers community activities such as book clubs, games nights, and social meet-ups for adults aged 18 and above in Warrington.
Background
Megan Hems founded Activity Angels CIC, a community initiative based in Warrington. She has won the Rising Star of the Year award at the Women in Business Awards 2026 for her efforts to reduce loneliness among adults.
The awards ceremony took place on March 28, 2026, at the Bolton Whites Hotel Premier Suite. The event brought together female founders and business leaders from across the North West and honoured achievements in business and community service.
Organizers said the event received over 2,000 nominations, with more than 180 finalists and 37 winners across various categories.
Activity Angels CIC, set up in 2024, works to reduce loneliness and social isolation among adults aged 18 and above in Warrington.
The organization runs activities such as book clubs, games nights, bingo sessions for adults with additional needs, knitting and crochet groups, jigsaw mornings, and social meet-ups to encourage connection and friendship.
Hems started the initiative after experiencing loneliness herself after moving to Warrington in 2019. She said the issue became more difficult during the pandemic, which motivated her to create a supportive community space.
A 2023 study showing higher-than-average loneliness levels in Warrington also shaped her work.
Organizers said finalists were chosen through public voting and review by an independent judging panel. They praised participants for their contribution to business growth and community impact across the region.
The award recognizes Hems’ efforts to strengthen community ties and improve wellbeing through local engagement.
