On 21 December 2025, London’s illustrious Dorchester Hotel became the epicentre of creativity, leadership, and cultural influence as The W Magazine hosted its annual New Faces Awards. Set against the timeless glamour of Mayfair, the black-tie, red-carpet event brought together industry leaders, innovators, and tastemakers for an evening dedicated to recognising those shaping the future across fashion, beauty, business, media, and the arts.
From the moment guests arrived beneath the Dorchester’s glowing façade, the atmosphere was unmistakably electric. Couture gowns, tailored tuxedos, and statement looks filled the red carpet, setting the tone for a night that balanced elegance with intention, a hallmark of The W Magazine’s most celebrated events.
The evening was hosted by Faith Gundani and Sam Sadler, whose polished delivery and effortless chemistry guided guests through the ceremony with warmth and sophistication. Their presence anchored the night, creating a seamless flow between awards, performances, and moments of reflection.
As the awards unfolded, the focus remained firmly on those present: leaders and creatives actively driving change within their industries.
Entrepreneurial excellence took centre stage as Masha Sharova accepted the Enterprise of the Year award for So Shell, a brand recognised for its bold vision and innovative business approach. Her win reflected the growing importance of enterprises that blend purpose with commercial success.
A standout moment of the night came with the presentation of the Trailblazer of the Year Award, awarded to Dr Jade Thomas. Celebrated for her fearless leadership and forward-thinking contributions, her recognition underscored the evening’s emphasis on progress and disruption.
Beauty and wellness were also firmly in the spotlight, with Iza Recelj of Sentiré Pilates, honoured as Beauty and Wellness Service Provider of the Year. Applauded for her holistic and transformative approach, her win highlighted the evolving standards of care and experience within the sector.
In the medical field, Dr Dilly was awarded Medical and Aesthetic Practice of the Year, recognised for clinical excellence, ethical practice, and an unwavering commitment to patient wellbeing.
Leadership remained a defining theme throughout the evening. Abby Ghafoor was presented with the Female Leader Award, celebrated for her influence, resilience, and ability to lead with clarity and purpose in a competitive landscape.
Fashion, unsurprisingly, played a major role in the night’s narrative. Somy London was named Fashion Brand of the Year, celebrated for its refined aesthetic, contemporary elegance, and growing influence within the fashion industry.
In journalism and media, Amanda Davies was honoured with the Outstanding Contribution to Industry Award, recognising her authoritative voice and impactful work at CNN, as well as her continued influence on global storytelling.
One of the evening’s most warmly received moments came with the presentation of the Inspiring Woman Award to Karen Millen. A true fashion icon, her recognition celebrated decades of entrepreneurship, creativity, and inspiration for women across industries.
The ceremony concluded with the presentation of Icon of the Year, awarded to Tobi Adegboyega. The honour recognised cultural influence, leadership, and a lasting legacy that extends beyond industry boundaries, a fitting close to a night centred on impact.
Interwoven throughout the ceremony were live performances that elevated the atmosphere and added emotional depth to the evening. Music Nxtion opened with an energising rendition of “Before I Let Go”, followed by CEO & Armstrong, who delivered “Patiently Waiting” accompanied by a live orchestra. The Orchestra & Music Nxtion Band captivated guests with an instrumental performance of “All of the Lights”, before Beryl closed the musical programme with a soulful cover of “If I Ain’t Got You”.
As the night drew to a close, the 2025 New Faces Awards stood as a celebration not just of achievement, but of presence, of leaders and creatives actively shaping their industries in real time. Under the chandeliers of The Dorchester, The W Magazine once again affirmed its role as a platform for recognising those who are not waiting for the future, but creating it.
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