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March 10, 2026
The organisers of the 25 Influential Women Leaders Award (25IWLA) have announced the honourees for their 7th annual leadership awards, recognising women who have made significant contributions to Guyana’s public, private and non-profit sectors.
The 2026 award ceremony is scheduled for May 9 at the Guyana Marriott Hotel Georgetown, where 25 women will be formally inducted into a growing network of influential female leaders committed to national development.
The honourees are: Dr. Aartie Devi Somwaru-Jhagru, Bonita Lowenfield McDonald, Chandrowtie Sarran, Christell Chesney, Christine Samwaroo, Dellon Patricia Adams, Doneeta Ramlakhan, Jacqueline Cummings Johnson, Jessica Nathalia Callender, Dr. Kamela Bemaul-Sukhu, Kimbely Yearwood, Lenise Morgan, Madonna Ghanie, Marisa Morgan-Bonie, Munirah Reedon, Dr. Nandishaw Ramsingh, Dr. Pamela Rose, Dr. Renuka Tewari, Rhonda Maxius-Lansiquot, Salome Marina Ann Henry, Savitri Tularam-Kaulesar, Sonja Sampson, Dr. Theresa Sarju, Upasna Mudlier and Younica Sanchara.
With the announcement of the 2026 class, the initiative will have honoured 175 women leaders across Guyana since its establishment in 2019.
The award programme is widely regarded as one of the country’s leading platforms recognising women whose leadership and contributions have strengthened organisations, advanced industries and supported community development.
Organisers said nearly 100 nominations were submitted this year from across Guyana, reflecting growing recognition of women contributing to economic growth, community advancement and institutional leadership. Nominees were evaluated through a selection process conducted by a panel of judges based in Guyana and the diaspora.
Managing Director of Cerulean Inc. and co-founder of the awards, Lyndell Danzie-Black, said recognising women leaders remains essential to national development.
“As we ‘Give to Gain’ in recognising women globally, it is fitting to honour the work and voices of 25 women leaders in Guyana. Their impact on themselves, their families, teams, organisations and communities is unsurpassed,” she said.
Co-founder of the initiative and founder and chief executive officer of The NICO Consulting, Michelle A. Nicholas, said the honourees represent the strength of leadership across the country.
“The strength of any nation lies in the leadership and contributions of its people, and these women exemplify what is possible when vision, commitment and service come together,” Nicholas said.
Organisers said the event is expected to attract strong interest, with individuals and organisations encouraged to secure tickets and sponsorship opportunities early. Honourees will also be eligible to apply for a Women’s Leadership Programme later this year.