"Lesley's bravery and courage in overcoming a personal tragedy, her quiet determination in the public arena to further this exceptionally worthwhile cause, and her direct and very real impact on public policy and political discussion make her a game changer," Mr Power said.
"Her influence in this area of New Zealand consciousness is unequalled."
Traci Houpapa, the first female chairwoman of the Federation of Maori Authorities, won the board and management award.
Jo-Anne Wilkinson, of the Foundation for Youth Development, and McAuley High School principal Anne Miles were jointly awarded a prize in the social enterprise category.
Former Wellington mayor Kerry Prendergast won a local and regional category award.
Medicinal Chemistry expert Professor Margaret Brimble won the innovation and science award.
Young lawyer Althea Carbon won the emerging leader category and New Zealand Dance Company's Shona McCullagh won the newly-established arts award.
Publisher Dame Wendy Pye was recognised in the business entrepreneur category and opera singer Dame Malvina Major was presented with a lifetime achievement award.
Mr Power, who now works for Westpac, was among the judging panel, which also included Dame Rosanne Meo, Dr Mary Quin, Therese Walsh, Peter Tennent and Lynley Belton.
The awards, a partnership between Fairfax and Westpac, were announced at SkyCity last night.
