25 Influential Women Leaders Award announces 2025 honourees for 6th anniversary gala

The prestigious 25 Influential Women Leaders Award (25ILWA) has unveiled the 25 exceptional Guyanese women who will be honoured at the highly anticipated Sixth Anniversary and Leadership Awards. The event will take place on Saturday, May 17, at the Guyana Marriott Hotel, Seawall Road, Georgetown.

As Guyana’s foremost accolade, the 25ILWA recognises visionary women from the public, private, and non-profit sectors who have demonstrated remarkable leadership in driving transformation and excellence across various industries. This year’s ceremony marks a significant moment in honouring these trailblazing women, coinciding with Women’s History Month and International Women’s Day.

The theme for 2025, “Women’s Rights. Strongest Alliance. Most Influential Women,” highlights the global movement towards gender equity and the power of collective leadership. The women recognised this year have been celebrated for their remarkable contributions to their fields, communities, and organisations.

The distinguished list of awardees includes Abbigale Loncke-Watson, Avia Maria Lindie, Ayodele Roache, Carla Cassiano, Colleen Prince, Devica Kamini Uditram, Francina Lanferman-Duncan, Hebron Edwards, Jasmaine Payne, Mahadevi Doobay-Girdhary, Martina McDonald-Johnson, Melissa Dow-Richardson, Mendy Angele Nicholson, Naudya Hoosein, Nazima Raghubir, Reisa Roberts, Romela Sahadeo, Sadhana Samtani-Sultan, Safina Lutchman, Savina Sukhnandan, Sophia Dolphin, Tamana Safraj, Tessa Fernandes, Vanessa Elizabeth Williams-Rodriguez, and Vidya Ketwaroo.

Michelle A. Nicholas, Founder and CEO of The NICO Consulting and co-founder of the 25ILWA, praised the honourees, emphasising that leadership is about empowering others. “True leadership is not about being the loudest voice in the room, but about empowering others to find their own voice and champion their unique potential,” she said. “The 25ILWA is a testament to the power of collective strength, where these incredible women are not only recognised for their impact but celebrated as leaders shaping the future of Guyana.”

Lyndell Danzie-Black, Managing Director of Cerulean Inc. and co-founder of the award, expressed her enthusiasm by acknowledging the ongoing challenges women face. “Women have been integral in shaping economies, advancing innovation, and nurturing communities, all while breaking down barriers in every sector,” she said. “Yet, true progress remains elusive, as too many women still face systemic challenges such as gender-based violence, inequality, and limited opportunities. This year’s awardees inspire future generations by embodying leadership, excellence, and impact.”

Since its inception in 2019, the 25ILWA has grown to become a prominent platform advocating for inclusivity, empowerment, and progress, all of which play a pivotal role in shaping Guyana’s future. The initiative has gained widespread recognition with increasing nominations each year, thanks to its rigorous and transparent selection process. An independent panel of esteemed judges from both Guyana and the diaspora evaluate the nominees based on their influence and impact.

With 125 pioneering women inducted into the 25ILWA network to date, this year’s honourees will also have the unique opportunity to apply for the Women’s Leadership Programme, further enhancing their leadership capabilities.

The Sixth Anniversary gala promises to be a night of inspiration, unity, and recognition, bringing together key leaders from various sectors, including industry, government, and the corporate world. It will celebrate the women shaping the future of Guyana.

Organisations that are committed to gender equity and leadership development are encouraged to seize sponsorship opportunities to demonstrate their support for advancing women’s leadership and fostering a more inclusive future.

Tickets for the event can be purchased online via Eventbrite, MMG+, or at various local outlets, including RNS Insurance Brokers & Consultants, Lexann’s Nail Creations, and World Access Top Up Shop. For more information, please contact 25influentialwomen@gmail.com or call 592-623-1189.

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