From left to right: Cinzia Sgambati Colman, Ornella Barra (Alliance Boots), HRH Prince Albert, HRH Princess Charlene, Stefano Pessina (Alliance Boots) & Alberto Colman (WSM Events)

The second edition of the award ceremony of the « Woman of the Year 2013 » took place in the magnificent art deco Salle Francois Blanc of the Sporting d’Hiver in Monte-Carlo on Tuesday, May 7 in the presence of T.R.H. Prince Albert and Princess Charlene. This event created by Italian Journalist Cinzia Sgambati-Colman last year, was organized by Welcome Service Monte-Carlo (WSM), and generously sponsored by Alliance Boots, a leading international health-care and beauty company, with the objective of celebrating accomplished women from different walks of life to create awareness about their work, further their cause and be a source of inspiration to others. Stephane Valerie, Minister of Health and Social Affairs, gave the prize to the American doctor Diane Medved Harper, professor of medicine specialized in the research on the role of Human papillomavirus HPV in uterine cancer. Furthermore, Mme Adeline Garino, Monegasque and President of the “Association Ecoute Cancer Reconfort” received a prize by Cinzia Sgambati-Colman, dedicated to offer help and comfort to cancer sufferers and their families. The prize this year was the sculpture of a woman in bronze a creation by artist Mateo Mornar.

During the evening the guests witnessed talented Italian artist Fabrizio Vendramin in action, painting an upside down portrait of Princess Charlene who was amazed to discover herself on the canvas when the final painting was turned up.  HRH Prince Albert also received a portrait of himself that had already been executed by the artist.

T.R.H. Prince Albert and Princess  Charlene with the awarded women, organizers and members of the Jury with the portraits by Fabrizio Vendramin

Photo credits: Eric Mathon, Prince’s Palace