Being shortlisted for the SheInspires Awards is an achievement in itself. The interview is not a test or a performance — it is a conversation. Its purpose is to understand your journey, your impact, and the story behind your nomination.
Your 5-Minute Introduction
The interview begins with a five-minute introduction about you and your journey. This is your opportunity to set the scene and share your story in your own words.
You may choose to use a short PowerPoint presentation as a visual aid, or speak freely through oral storytelling — whichever feels most natural to you. If you use slides, keep them simple and supportive of your story. Please avoid using video clips, as video formats are not always compatible and can disrupt the interview.
There is no single “right” way to structure your introduction. You might wish to reflect on what inspired your journey, the challenge or gap you noticed, the impact you have created, and why this work matters to you.
Judges’ Questions
After your introduction, the judges will ask three questions. These questions are designed to help the panel understand your impact, learning, and values — not to catch you out.
You will have up to three minutes to respond to each question. Take a moment to gather your thoughts if needed. Clear, focused answers with one or two strong examples are often more powerful than trying to cover everything.
The interview ends with a one-minute catch-all question, giving you the opportunity to add anything important you feel has not yet been covered.
Timekeeping & Fairness
To ensure a fair and transparent process, all candidates are given the same amount of time: five minutes for your introduction, three minutes for each of the three questions, and one minute for the final catch-all question.
Judges will keep time to ensure fairness for everyone. If you are running over, they may gently interrupt you and will usually give a 30-second notice so you can wrap up your response. Please don’t feel flustered or panic — this is simply part of keeping the process consistent and fair.
If you are stopped for time, don’t worry. The final catch-all question is there specifically to allow you to share anything important you may not yet have had time to say.
International & Overseas Candidates
If you are joining from abroad and English is not your first language, or you are not comfortable speaking in English, you are very welcome to bring a translator into the Zoom room with you.
Please ensure that your translator understands your work and your story well, as how your responses are conveyed may affect how your interview is understood. Bringing a translator is absolutely acceptable and will not disadvantage you in any way.
What Helps on the Day
- Join from a quiet, comfortable space where you can focus
- Check your internet connection, camera, and microphone in advance
- Have a glass of water nearby
- You may keep notes with you if they help you feel confident — this is perfectly acceptable
- If you are using slides, have them open and ready to share via Zoom
A Reassuring Note
Please don’t be nervous. Many of our judges are former SheInspires winners who understand exactly how this feels. Their role is to listen, not to intimidate.
Be yourself. Be honest. Be proud of how far you’ve come.
We are not looking for perfection — we are listening for impact.
