'Speak when you think you shouldn’t and listen when you think you don’t need to.  Stick up for yourself as much as you do other people. Push your own boundaries not other peoples. Believe in yourself.'

'I would like to see more Black women owning businesses, running big projects and in front of students in the two big universities in Bristol.'

Hilda and Bożena received a Wonderful Women Awards for creating and running a weekly Polish speaking group for people who are over 50 and who want to have fun and make new friends. Hilda and Bozena create a friendly and welcoming place for people to share memories, jokes, and culture. The club is completely self-organised and self-funded. Every week there are 20-30 members enjoying each other's company, with many in their late 80s and 90s.

Larna received a Wonderful Women Award for her commitment to equality, empowerment and justice for all. As well as volunteering for a homeless charity, she has orchestrated women’s walks throughout Bristol and organised Bristol’s First Black History Quiz where people from all across the city were invited.

'It is so easy to get caught in a bubble of our own situation and surroundings. Everyone is struggling with something. I have always really appreciated and been reassured when people who I might not often turn to, or spend time with, or even strangers(!); share experiences. It makes a difference when people are open to connecting and sharing a chat or a conversation.'