RIM AND AURORA LAUNCH INAUGURAL BLACKBERRY WOMEN & TECHNOLOGY AWARDS

RIM and women's networking group Aurora, today announced the launch of the inaugural BlackBerry Women & Technology awards. The awards have been created to recognise excellence and the outstanding contributions made by women in the field of technology. The awards will be presented at a prestigious dinner ceremony on 27th October 2005 at the Riverbank Plaza Hotel in London.

The awards are divided into eight categories, recognising individual contributions made in the corporate, public, SME, and academia sectors. The awards will also recognise the best female technology journalist and role model. Organisations also have the opportunity to take home an award on the night with a category recognising the technology company most committed to advancing female talent. 

Charmaine Eggberry, Vice President Enterprise Business Unit, EMEA, for Research In Motion, the company that makes BlackBerry explained:  " Women within the technology industry are achieving notable success and these awards have been designed to celebrate their achievements and increase their visibility. This extends to women performing non-technical roles within our industry such as marketing or education, as well as those women outside the industry who are making effective use of technology to enhance their organisations productivity and communications. ">

Glenda Stone, CEO of Aurora said,  "Technology is a great enabler for women' s businesses and career growth. It is therefore important that women are recognised for their development and innovative use of technology. "

The judging panel is drawn from representatives of BlackBerry, Aurora, award sponsors, industry leaders and the business press. Award sponsors include O2 and HSBC.

How to apply
For more information, and to apply for the awards, visit www.WomenTechAwards.com  The deadline for entries is Friday 29 July 2005.