Recognising an Unsung Woman of Manchester: Nadia Ali

We’re delighted to share that GM4Women2028’s Nadia Ali has been recognised as one of the Unsung Women of Manchester in the I Love Manchester Awards 2026.

These awards celebrate women whose impact is felt deeply, often without fanfare, but with lasting and meaningful change. Nadia’s inclusion is a powerful reflection of the difference she makes every day across Greater Manchester.

A driving force for community change

A born and bred Mancunian, Nadia is the CEO of Make a Difference GM, where she leads work focused on building a more inclusive, resilient region. Her approach is rooted in collaboration, diversity and innovation – bringing people together to create opportunities and stronger support systems for those who need them most.

Nadia assists individuals experiencing mental health crises, helping them navigate day-to-day challenges, access services and rebuild stability. She’s also a passionate advocate for women from global majority communities who are experiencing domestic abuse. Identifying a gap in culturally appropriate support, Nadia works tirelessly to connect women with the services they need while pushing for systemic change to address these inequalities.

From Make a Difference GM to GM4Women2028

Alongside this, Nadia brings invaluable grassroots insight to her role as a voluntary Trustee at GM4Women2028. Her experience across community networks and local initiatives ensures that lived experiences remain at the heart of our work to improve gender equality in the city region.

Nadia is an advocate for collaboration who understands that meaningful, lasting change requires collective effort, including the backing of male allies working alongside women and girls.

Whether through her leadership at Make a Difference GM or her role within GM4Women2028, she’s dedicated to amplifying voices that are too often overlooked. Her vision is clear: a Greater Manchester where every woman and girl has a genuine sense of belonging and the chance to thrive.

A well-deserved accolade

Nadia’s naming as an Unsung Woman of Manchester is incredibly well deserved. It shines a light on the vital, often unseen work – and the people who are driving it forward with determination, care and purpose.

In addition to this honour, Nadia also continues to uplift others, including hosting annual awards through Make a Difference GM to celebrate inspirational women across Greater Manchester, timed to coincide with International Women’s Day. Watch a round-up of this year’s awards on YouTube.

We’re incredibly proud to have Nadia as part of GM4Women2028 and grateful for the insight, energy and compassion she brings to our mission.