A HOST of inspirational businesswomen have been revealed as finalists in this year’s Dorset Venus Awards.

More than 100 guests were at Bournemouth’s Cumberland Hotel for the announcement.

The winners will be announced at the BIC on October 20.

Tara Flynn, MD of Ratio and sponsor of the Digital Media and Online Business of the Year category, said: “The atmosphere was electric, as the afternoon was filled with a few nerves, lots of laughter and plenty of cake.

“The October awards ceremony will be a brilliant and inspiring evening to give Dorset business women the praise and celebration they truly deserve.”

This year’s charity sponsor is BOO, whose aim is to help African children who are disadvantaged through economic poverty.

Finalists are as follows.

Mercedes-Benz of Poole Influential Woman: Rebecca Anstey, UK School of Modelling; Jaya da Costa, Dorset Blind Association; Amanda Jenner, Potty Training Academy.

Ash Elite Professional: Amy Cousineau-Massey, Steele Raymond; Michelle Dixon, Humphries Kirk; Natasha Duffy-Jones, Laceys Solicitors.

ATLAS ELEKTRONIK UK Inspirational Woman in Technology (STEM): Jane Askew, Carers Connected; Emma Friendship-Kilburn, Emm-Power; Tania Humphries-Smith, Bournemouth University.

Bournemouth University Inspirational Woman: Sophie Cook; Samantha Everard, Roses and Garters; Sally Harvey, AOK Rucksack Appeal.

Christchurch Jewellers Entrepreneur: Kate Atkinson, Bridal Reloved Franchising; Georgina Hurcombe, LoveLove Films; Lucinda Bilboe, BOXXX.

Dutton Gregory Small Business: Mandy Fitzmaurice, Purple HR; Hollie Power, Forever Gorgeous; Rebecca Woolford.

Enhanced Company of the Year: Rowena Bird, Lush; Rosie Kennar, Hoburne Holidays; Anna Rosier, Organix.

Exterion Media Marketing and PR: Fiona Carter, UK Health Online; Lesley Fereti, Lester Aldridge; Suzanne Revell, Churchill Retirement Living.

Fizz Benefits Musical Talent Award: Carley Dawson, BeeCreative Company; Helen Jenkins; Jenny Oag.

Interlink Express Customer Service: Suzanne Barnes, Aish Technologies; Judith Browing, SPS Print Group Ltd; Rosy Jones, BEBC.

MPLOY Staff Manager: Natalie Joyce, RiskSTOP Group Ltd; Mandy Kittlety, Luxury Care; Charlotte Wills, RIAS.

Playgolf Bournemouth Networker: Dawn Cook, Dorset Women in Business; Zelda De Hollander, Studio Shotz Photography; Lorna Trent, Parrot.

Ratio Digital Media and Online Business: Karina Grassy, Slumbersac Trading Co. Ltd; Arabella Lewis-Smith, Salad Creative; Eve Rykaczewska, Supreme Baby Limited.

Talbot Heath School Business Mother: Michelle Bartlett, Live Laugh Love Ladies Club; Miriam Phillips, Bright Daisy Publishing Ltd; Kerry Pocock, Make a Space.

Tigerlilly Nails New Business: Ali Dolphin, Mindful Solace Ltd; Tracey Verrall, NU-VO Hair and Beauty; Sue Weller, Furry Feasts.