Daveena Saranna named Barbara Cox Woman of the Year 2025

Daveena Saranna, EV campaigns manager at Green.TV Media, has been crowned the Barbara Cox Woman of the Year, in recognition of her leadership, creativity, and commitment to gender equity in the automotive and sustainability sectors.

Saranna received the prestigious honour at the Cox Automotive Europe Women With Drive event held on June 24, at the Collaboration Centre in Bruntingthorpe, Leicestershire.

The award, now in its seventh year, celebrates outstanding women across the industry who embody the values of leadership, innovation and community spirit. It is named after pioneering businesswoman Barbara Cox, former director of Cox Enterprises.

At just 25, Saranna has already built a reputation as a dynamic force in the electric vehicle (EV) space.

She leads the Top Women in EV platform, which promotes female representation in the sector, and has delivered impactful campaigns across flagship sustainability events including Everything Electric, Ezoo and Blenheim Palace.

Speaking at the awards ceremony, Saranna said: “I’m incredibly honoured and shocked to receive this recognition. The automotive industry is filled with passionate, driven people – to be named among them is truly humbling.

“The support I’ve had throughout my career from colleagues and mentors has been instrumental. I believe this award also honours those working every day to build a more inclusive, innovative and purpose-led industry.”

She also offered words of encouragement to other women considering a career in automotive: “You absolutely belong here. Give yourself permission to explore, try roles that scare you a little, and find your voice – it’s your biggest strength.”

Alongside the award, Saranna will receive £5,000 to invest in her personal development.

Highly Commended: Sarah Noble

The judges also awarded a Highly Commended accolade to Sarah Noble, consulting partner at Deloitte and head of UK Automotive Consulting.

With over 20 years of transatlantic industry experience, Noble has driven major transformation programmes and is the founder of Women at the Wheel, a successful initiative supporting women in the automotive profession.

“This industry is more than just cars,” Noble said. “It’s about people, progress and purpose. Creating inclusive spaces for women in mobility is key to shaping the future.”

Martin Forbes, president of Cox Automotive International, praised this year’s exceptional field of nominees, saying: “Daveena stood out for her vision, energy and ability to drive change. She’s proving that leadership and impact aren’t defined by age. Sarah’s values-led leadership and dedication to empowering women have left a deep and lasting legacy.”

Sam Panayides, European sales director at Cox Automotive Europe and sponsor of Women With Drive, added: “This year’s finalists are ambitious, authentic and truly inspiring. Daveena and Sarah represent the best of what’s next for our sector, and I’m proud to celebrate their success.”

2025 Barbara Cox Woman of the Year Finalists:

• Amy-Jane Marsden, Pro-Tech MOT & Automotive Academy
• Jess Shanahan, Jet Social
• Lynda Ennis, Ennis & Co
• Amy Lancaster-Hall, Bowker Motor Group
• Sarah Noble, Deloitte (Highly Commended)
• Daveena Saranna, Green.TV Media (Winner)

The Barbara Cox Woman of the Year Award highlights the vital role of women in shaping the future of automotive – and celebrates those driving the change.