Preeti Shokar, a Junior Business Intelligence Analyst at DHU Healthcare and founder of The Women’s Football Academy, has been named Inspirational Role Model at the 2025 SHE Awards — a national platform that celebrates women who are creating change, leading with purpose, and breaking new ground in their communities and industries.
“I didn’t even know I’d been nominated,” Preeti said. “To be chosen among so many incredible women was overwhelming — but it reminded me why I do what I do.”
Alongside her role at DHU, Preeti founded The Women’s Football Academy to support and inspire South Asian girls to get into sport, especially football. “Growing up, I was the only South Asian girl in my team,” she explained. “There was no one who looked like me. I want to be the role model I never had.”
At the SHE Awards ceremony, Preeti used her acceptance speech to call for more visibility and support for women in sport. “I’m proud to represent my community, but this is about more than me. It’s about changing the future for the next generation.”
She’s already been invited to speak at Wembley and the National Grassroots Football Show. “There’s still a cultural gap when it comes to girls, especially from South Asian backgrounds, playing football. But I’m here to bridge that gap — to show them they belong.”
“I never set out to win awards,” Preeti added. “I just wanted to give these girls a chance. This award tells me I’m on the right path.”