A feature on the Women Changing the World Global Awards 2026
During the Women Changing the World Global Summit & Awards 2026, from April 21–24, the French capital became a gathering place for leaders, entrepreneurs, activists, artists, and visionaries from across the globe. It was more than a gala—it was a statement: that changing the world begins with the courage of one person who decides to act.
Celebrating women who dare to dream, lead, and create change.
In a world that is constantly evolving, it is the courage, vision, and resilience of women that shape a better future for all. Each story, each voice, and each action becomes a spark—igniting transformation across communities, industries, and generations. This moment is more than recognition. It is a celebration of purpose, passion, and the unwavering belief that one person can make a difference.
Together, we rise. Together, we inspire. Together, we change the world.
The diversity of award categories reflects the true power of global impact. From Advocacy Impact, giving voice to the unheard, to Business and Innovation, driving economic change, and Creative Industries, Media, and Fashion & Textiles, where art becomes a language of transformation, each category represents a different path, but a shared purpose.
Categories such as Humanitarian Impact, Gender Equality, and Leadership highlight the courage to stand for others, while Emerging Leaders and Youth Impact remind us that the future is already being shaped today. Together, they form a powerful mosaic of influence—proving that change happens in many forms, across all sectors of life.
This moment is more than recognition. It is a celebration of purpose, passion, and the unwavering belief that one person can make a difference.
Photos Halina Rosa
A particularly powerful category was Advocacy Impact, which recognized women who amplify others’ voices and turn empathy into action.
1st place was awarded to Dr Adebola Ogungbadejo,
2nd place to Heena Sinha Cheung,
3rd place to Emma Payne.
TOP HONOURS
Woman Changing the World – Dayle Stevens
Woman of the Year Award – Jessica Hansen
SPECIAL AWARD
Dr Tererai Trent Sacred Sahwira Award – Mila Renken
Their work reminds us that true leadership is born where responsibility for others begins.
Among the many winners, Dayle Stevens received the title Woman Changing the World, while Jessica Hansen was awarded Woman of the Year. In Women in Creative Industries – Therése Neaimé, in Women in Fashion & Textiles, Carol Hanlon, Petria Cumner, and Rachel Nanfra were honored.
What made this event truly exceptional was not just the podium, but the shared energy—hundreds of stories of resilience, purpose, and impact.
List of the Winners 2026 in the link below
https://wcwawards.com/winners-2026
When Media Becomes a Partner in Change – DESIGNER magazine Global
This year, the event carried special significance for the world of culture and media. DESIGNER Magazine participated as an official partner, helping shape the artistic and communication dimension of the summit.
Together with Women Changing the World, the magazine had the honor of presenting awards in three prestigious categories.
The Women Changing the World, together with Designer Magazine, presented prizes in three categories:
- Women in Creative Industries – Therése Neaimé
- Women in Media – Martha Asumata Agas
- Women in Fashion & Textiles – Carol Hanlon
It was a deeply symbolic moment—where creativity, storytelling, and social impact met on one stage.
It is a great privilege to present these awards. Thank you so much for your trust and support: Peace Mitchell, Katy Garner, and Dr. Tererai Trent.
At the heart of this global movement stand these three extraordinary women. Together, they embody vision, leadership, and purpose. As founders, Peace Mitchell and Katy Garner have created a powerful international platform that not only recognizes women’s achievements but also actively connects and empowers changemakers across the world. Their work is driven by a deep belief in collaboration, impact, and the strength of community.
Alongside them, Tererai Trent brings a profoundly human and inspirational dimension—her life story, rooted in resilience and the transformative power of education, reminds us what is truly possible. Together, they form a unique force: visionaries who not only celebrate change, but live it. Their shared mission goes beyond awards—it is about building a global legacy where women uplift one another and create a future defined by courage, equality, and opportunity.
The presence of DESIGNER Magazine also marked the beginning of new international collaborations, including connections with:
- Dubai Culture and Arts Authority
- Tigullio Design District
These partnerships reflect a new era of global cooperation—where culture, design, and leadership transcend borders.
Women Changing the World Global Awards 2026 proved one thing: The world does not change in theory—it changes through people. And in Paris, it was clear that these people are women who do not wait for the perfect moment. They create it.
Everything begins with psychology. With what we think about ourselves, what we believe, and the meaning we give to our experiences. It is this inner dialogue—often invisible to the world—that shapes the direction of our lives.
Change does not begin on stage, under the spotlight, or in the moment of receiving an award. It begins much earlier—in silence, in moments of doubt, in the decision not to give up despite the challenges. It is a process of moving through our own limitations, fears, and beliefs that have shaped our reality for years.
Only when we go through that—when we begin to understand ourselves more deeply and dare to step beyond what is familiar—a new chapter begins. A chapter of conscious action, authentic leadership, and living in alignment with our values.
And that is the moment when change stops being a dream. It becomes reality.
More about the event:
https://thewomenchangingtheworld.com/
2026.04.27 Stockholm
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