Waterford-based coach wins national award for empowering women through accessible fitness

A Waterford-based coach has been honoured with a national award for her work helping women prioritise their health and fitness in everyday life.

Lynne Ward, founder of the women's wellness brand Pepper Hustle, was named Fitness Professional of the Year at the EVOKE Wellness Awards 2025 in Dublin.

The EVOKE Wellness Awards honour individuals and organisations making significant contributions to health and wellbeing across Ireland. Ward's win acknowledges her approach to removing barriers that often prevent women from prioritising their own health.

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“My mission has always been to make health realistic for real women because I know what it's like to juggle everything and still feel like you come last," said Lynne.

"Through Pepper Hustle, I've built a community of women across Ireland and beyond who are learning to move, eat, and live well without the guilt or extremes."

A qualified nutritionist with more than 12 years of experience, Lynne has built a global following through her online fitness and wellness work, offering practical guidance for women juggling busy lives.

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“This award belongs to the thousands of women who've shown up for themselves and their health," she added. "I've been where they are, and that drives my commitment to making wellness accessible to busy women who often put themselves last."

Her approach, shaped by her own experiences with heart surgery, ulcerative colitis and perimenopause, focuses on sustainable, achievable wellbeing and making health feel less overwhelming for women of all ages.

Through Pepper Hustle, Ward supports her paid community, over 12,000 members in her free Facebook group, and millions of women across social platforms with practical solutions that acknowledge the challenges of real life.