Ana Goncalves, a seasoned marathon runner and charity fundraiser, was announced as the winner of the Barclays-sponsored award at Friday’s International Women’s Day breakfast at The Royal Yacht Hotel. Mrs Goncalves, who was chosen by a panel of judges, accepted the award in front of around 200 attendees and said that she was over the moon and incredibly honoured to have been selected.
Speaking about her experiences, she said: ‘Sometimes people ask me how I continue to partake in as many marathons as I do, and being honest it is something that I also ask myself but it is knowing that the money you raise will help so many people which keeps me going.’
Mrs Goncalves is due to run in the Grand to Grand Ultra, which is a gruelling endurance race covering 170 miles through desert landscapes in Arizona and Utah. All of the proceeds she raises will go towards towards two Island charities, Headway and Epilepsy Jersey.
Also speaking at the event was last year’s winner, Ruth Smith, from St Clement, who was recognised for the work she has done building schools in Africa.
Guest speakers at the event included Senator Kristina Moore and Deputy Louise Doublet as well as representatives from the event’s sponsors Barclays, who spoke about issues including work-life balance for working families.
