The award, originally launched five years ago, to celebrate the achievements of women working in traditionally male dominated fields, recognises Gabriella’s inspirational and exemplary achievement within the aviation industry.

Gabriella will receive her accolade at the EU-WIIN International Conference & Awards Ceremony which takes place at The British Library, London, on 14 October 2015.

Gabriella launched ConnectJets, initially with an all-female team, to provide charter, lease and aircraft sales opportunities to clients across the world. Currently based in Mayfair London, ConnectJets has recently secured fresh investment to expand both the charter and sales division. Testament to Gabriella Somerville’s sales and marketing prowess in the sector, in 2014 she secured a contract with Piaggio Aerospace to be the company’s exclusive Sales Agent for their distinctive business turboprop in the UK, Channel Islands, Isle of Man and Ireland. Gabriella became the first business woman to be appointed sales agent for the company.

Virgin Startup business mentor

Just recently, Gabriella was selected as a mentor for Richard Branson’s Entrepreneurial Programme, Virgin StartUp. Virgin StartUp, is a not-for-profit organisation, which gives entrepreneurs the funding, information and support they need to get their business ideas off the ground. Gabriella embarked on her aviation career at Virgin Atlantic and credits her success to her formative years under the leadership of Richard Branson and the Virgin Atlantic team.

		Sir Richard Branson, Virgin Group Founder said: “Congratulations to Gabriella. She is doing stellar work in the aviation sector and I’m proud she started her career with Virgin Atlantic. I’m delighted she has agreed to support our Virgin StartUp scheme for aspiring entrepreneurs and I’m sure she will be an inspiration to anyone who has the courage to launch their own business.” Gabriella commented: “I am delighted to be nominated for this award and hope it will encourage more women to take up leadership roles within the vibrant business aviation sector. There has been a glass ceiling within this industry and now we are beginning to see the ceiling lift - thanks to EBAA, BBGA and other industry bodies who are rightly beginning to challenge the status quo.
Gabriella (right) started her career as Virgin Atlantic cabin crew. photo: BBC