Fashion designer and philanthropist Diane Von Furstenberg honoured five inspirational women last night at the annual DVF awards in New York.
The awards were set up four years ago to celebrate women who have helped to change other women’s lives through their “leadership, strength and courage in their respective fields”.
Andeisha Farid, founder of Afghan Child Education and Caring Organisation (AFCECO) and Sunitha Krishnan from Prajwala, an organisation that works to rescue women and children from the sex trade, offering them education and safety, were both awarded the Vital Voices Global Partnership award.
US television presenter Robin Roberts was awarded The Lifetime Leadership Award for her “extraordinary grace and courage” in her battle with breast cancer and a rare blood disorder.
Tammy Tibbetts the founder of First, a charity that sponsors girls’ educations was voted by the public to receive The People’s Voice award.
Natalia Vodianova model and president of the Naked Heart Foundation charity was awarded the 2013 Inspiration Award for her work to provide a safe environment for Russian children.