THE incredible talents and efforts of Scottish women were celebrated at a glittering ceremony in the Grand Central Hotel last night.

Here, we share what just some of the outstanding women who attended the Evening Times Scotswoman and Young Scotswoman of the Year 2018 had to say about the event.

Elaine Mackenzie Ellis, actress:

“Scottish women are resilient and warm and formidable. You don’t have to be one of theirs to have them fight for you. They’ll fight for anyone, they’ll nurture anyone. I love coming to SWOTY, it’s one of my favourite nights of the year.”

Deborah Anderson, Evening Times news editor:

“The girls and young women standing up against injustice both here in Scotland and around the world are our heroes. From climate change warrior Greta Thunberg to activist and Parkland massacre survivor Emma Gonzales, who is calling for an end to gun violence, to our very own Grace Warnock, these voices are strong. They prove you are never too young to make an impact. In 2018, Scotland’s Year of Young People, we wanted to celebrate these voices, and to bring SWOTY to a new generation.”

Read more: MND campaigner Lucy Lintott named Scotswoman of the Year

Anne Ledgerwood, St Enoch Centre general manager:

“Congratulations to this year’s incredible winners and nominees, who continue to surprise with the lengths they go to to help and inspire others. This year it was even more moving to see the measures young women in Scotland are taking.

MSP Annie Wells:

“I think it is amazing to see so many inspirational women in the one room especially just after International Women’s Day.

“I met a couple of the finalists. They are all phenonminal.

“We have so many fantastic women in Glasgow and Scotland. To have a room full of single women and one man is impressive.

“We need to do this more often and get more people involved.”

Read more: Maria Lyle becomes Evening Times Young Scotswoman of the Year

Libby McArthur, actress:

“One of the things I love about SWOTY is that you show up, sit down, and start to chat with women from all walks of life. You share experiences and connect, and it’s amazing.”

Horse McDonald, singer:

“When I’m here, I feel like I’m part of a group of women who make a big difference, not just in their own communities, but in the wider world.

“It feels like being part of a powerful, inspirational group.”

Grace Warnock, 2017 Editor’s Award winner:

“I’m really proud to have been part of the inspiration for YoungSWOTY. Young women have strong voices and should be listened to. Young women can change the world.”

Read more: Women of Glasgow's Equal Pay dispute win Editor's Award

Jo Lennie, playwright and arts publicist:

“At SWOTY, you hear inspiring stories and meet amazing women. It’s a fantastic place to be.”

Mary McCluskey, former Scottish Youth Theatre artistic director:

“How do you sum up SWOTY? Easy – emotional and inspirational.”

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