Ten Scottish women from the fields of the arts, culture, politics, activism and science have been honoured and inducted into the esteemed Saltire Society ‘Outstanding Women of Scotland’ community at a special event in Glasgow.
This year’s ten inductees include the UK’s youngest MP Mhairi Black, distinguished scientist Sarah Wanless and actor Maureen Beattie, who is president of the actors’ union Equity and a member of the Royal Shakespeare Company’s Histories Ensemble.
Also featured in this year’s list of inductees are Chief Executive of Community Justice Scotland Karyn McCluskey and pioneering campaigners Talat Yaqoob, Beth Morrison and Isabel McCue, alongside choreographer Janice Parker and literary agent Jenny Brown. Completing the list of 2018 inductees is Rosemary Ward, a notable figure in the fields of Gaelic education and literature.
Since it began in 2015, the ‘Outstanding Women of Scotland’ campaign has recognised and celebrated Scottish women from all walks of life and the inspiration their achievements set for the next generation. Each year, the campaign invites members of the public to nominate living contemporary examples of Scottish women who have made a significant contribution to Scottish culture and society for induction into the Outstanding Women of Scotland community. Past inductees have included singer-songwriter and activist Annie Lennox, bestselling author J.K. Rowling and First Minister Nicola Sturgeon.
Tthe special ceremony, which took place at Gllasgow’s Womens Library, saw each inductee presented with a limited edition print.
Full details of this year’s ten inductees are as follows:
- Maureen Beattie – prominent stage and screen actor and President of Equity.
- Jenny Brown – leading literary agent, former Head of Literature at the Scottish Arts Council, founder Director of the Edinburgh International Book Festival and Chair of Bloody Scotland crime writing festival.
- Mhairi Black – Member of Parliament for Paisley & Renfrewshire South and the youngest member in the House of Commons.
- Karyn McCluskey – Chief Executive of Community Justice Scotland, notably championed a public health approach to violence reduction and is a world-leading expert in this field.
- Isabel McCue MBE – mental health campaigner and founder of Theatre Nemo.
- Beth Morrison – award-winning campaigner for the care, wellbeing and rights of children with special and complex needs.
- Janice Parker – award-winning independent choreographer and dance-maker.
- Professor Sarah Wanless – internationally recognised marine scientist, a fellow of the Royal Society of Edinburgh and Honorary professor at the University of Aberdeen.
- Rosemary Ward – Director of Programmes at the Scottish Book Trust, former Director of the Gaelic Book Council and notable figure in the fields of Gaelic education, literature and culture.
- Talat Yaqoob – Director of Equate Scotland and campaigner for gender, race and religious equality in Scotland.
Mhari Black said: “I am hugely honoured to hold a place on this list amongst all the other phenomenal women who have been nominated this year, and I would like to thank every person who nominated me.
“The women on this list come from a wide range of backgrounds and it is great to see women leading in so many different sectors.”
Speaking about her induction, Professor Sarah Wanless said: “It is an honour to be named as one of this year’s Outstanding Women of Scotland and to join this esteemed Community.
“I could not believe it when I found out and I would like to thank those who nominated me to be inducted alongside this group of outstanding women recognised for their achievements in a range of spheres. I am proud to be representing the field of science and hope that it is a career path more young women can be inspired to follow.”
Glasgow Women’s Library Enterprise Development Manager, Sue John, said: “Glasgow Women’s Library is thrilled to be working with the Saltire Society once again.
“Each year, another cohort of incredible women is inducted as Outstanding Women of Scotland. Through their extraordinary contributions to Scotland and the wider world they are role models for us all, and I am pleased have celebrated their achievements with them on this special occasion.”
Saltire Society President, Sally Mapstone, said: “Across the arts, politics, science, and vital areas such as justice, special needs and mental health, Scotland generates outstanding women, whom the Saltire Society is proud to celebrate.
“Women’s leadership, creativity, and companionship, done on their own terms and to enhance the lives of others, characterise this year’s inspiring inductees.”
Saltire Society Programme Director, Sarah Mason, said: “It is a great privilege to once again honour truly inspiring women who contribute to both Scotland and internationally, who change the world we live in.
“The Saltire Society exists to promote and celebrate Scottish culture and heritage and we are proud to work with Glasgow Women’s Library on the Outstanding Women of Scotland.
“Over the years, the contribution of Scotland’s women to the cultural life of this country has been truly remarkable but sadly too often underestimated or overlooked. By building the Outstanding Women of Scotland community year by year, I hope we can begin to address that shortcoming and bring women to the forefront.”
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