EmpowerHer Excellence Awards
Canada 2026 Edition — Registration Open

EmpowerHer ExcellenceAwards

Fueling Her Excellence for Generations to Come

Dates
July 2–4, 2026
Location
Brampton, Ontario
Programme
3 Days + 4 Day Tour
Organized by
Stuka Foundation
Regions
6 Global Regions
Context
World Cup 2026 Season
Register Your Interest Discover the Platform
—Days
—Hours
—Minutes
—Seconds
7
Total Event Days
50
Award Categories
6
Global Regions
500+
Expected Delegates
∞
Impact Created
About the Event

A Platform for Influence & Real Action

The EmpowerHer Excellence Awards, initiated by the Stuka Foundation, is a flagship international platform that celebrates and recognizes stakeholders who actively empower women — leaders, institutions, policymakers, entrepreneurs, investors, and social change advocates who create real opportunities for women to thrive across Africa and Canada.

The Stuka Foundation is a non-profit organization based in Tanzania and the USA, dedicated to impacting women's lives through entrepreneurship training, leadership capacity building, and social empowerment initiatives. In 2026, the Awards expand to the global stage, bridging Africa and Canada in a moment that the world is already watching.

This is not just an awards night. It is a three-day platform of dialogue, exhibitions, workshops, policy engagement, and celebration — bringing together the champions behind women's success and the decision-makers who can accelerate it.

Mission
Recognize & Celebrate
Honoring governments, companies, NGOs & leaders creating pathways for women's advancement
Vision
Global Impact
Building a sustainable movement of women's empowerment across Africa and North America
Action
Forge Partnerships
Cross-continental collaboration between Africa and Canada that outlasts the event
Legacy
Fuel Excellence
Inspiring greater investment, policy commitment & community action for generations to come
EEA 2026 · Brampton, Ontario, Canada
7Day
Total Programme
6
Global Regions
50
Award Categories
2024
Tanzania Edition
"This edition will create a powerful platform for dialogue, exhibitions, and collaboration between African and Canadian stakeholders — advancing women's empowerment on the world stage."

— Stuka Foundation
Why Canada · Why Now

The World Is Already Watching Canada

July 2026 is not an ordinary moment. Canada is hosting the FIFA World Cup 2026, drawing billions of eyes from every corner of the globe to Canadian cities. The world's governments, investors, media outlets, and cultural leaders are converging on Canada — and the EmpowerHer Excellence Awards is positioned right at the heart of this global moment in Brampton, Ontario.

This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to amplify the voices, achievements, and stories of women's empowerment champions to a global audience — when the world is already looking. For Africa and its diaspora, it is a defining moment to showcase excellence, leadership, and innovation on the international stage.

Brampton is Canada's ninth-largest city and one of the most culturally diverse cities in the world — a living symbol of what inclusive communities can achieve. Hosting EmpowerHer here sends a powerful message about the future we are building.

FIFA World Cup 2026 in Canada
Billions of eyes on Canadian cities — maximum global visibility for your brand and mission
Diaspora & Global Attendance
African diaspora, government delegations, and global investors converging in one place
Brampton, Ontario
One of Canada's most culturally diverse cities — a symbol of inclusive excellence
Africa Meets Canada
A bridge moment — celebrating the shared heritage and future of two continents
Global Reach

6 Regions. One Powerful Movement.

EmpowerHer Excellence Awards 2026 unites leaders, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and advocates from six of the world's most influential regions — converging in Brampton, Ontario to celebrate women's excellence on a truly global stage.

🇨🇦
Canada
Host Nation · Brampton, Toronto & Ontario
Host Country
🌍
Africa
Founding Region · Tanzania, Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, South Africa & beyond
Founding Region
🇺🇸
United States
North America · Government leaders, investors & diaspora communities
North America
🇨🇳
China
Asia-Pacific · Trade leaders, investment partners & innovation champions
Asia-Pacific
🇮🇳
India
South Asia · Entrepreneurs, tech innovators & women's leadership pioneers
South Asia
🇦🇪
UAE
Middle East · Investors, philanthropists & regional empowerment leaders
Middle East

"When Africa, North America, Asia, the Middle East and South Asia unite around women's excellence — the world changes."

Objectives

Five Goals That Drive This Platform

01
Recognize Stakeholders
Governments, companies, NGOs, leaders & investors who have created opportunities and pathways for women's advancement across Africa and Canada
02
Promote Cross-Continental Partnerships
Between Africa and Canada — building lasting alliances in women's empowerment, trade, policy, and investment
03
Foster Knowledge Exchange
Showcasing best practices, innovative policies, and transformative success stories from both continents
04
Provide a Collaborative Platform
For stakeholders to network, share resources, build relationships, and inspire collective action that drives real change
05
Celebrate Diversity & Inclusion
As a catalyst for sustainable development, amplifying the voices and achievements of women from all backgrounds
Event Programme

Three Days of Transformation

July 2–4, 2026 (Main Programme) + July 5–8, 2026 (Post-Tour Experience) · Brampton, Ontario, Canada. Seven immersive days blending recognition, dialogue, exhibitions, cultural exploration, and continental partnership-building.

Main Programme
July 2, 3 & 4 — 3 Full Days
Opening Ceremony · Exhibitions · Leadership Forums · Panel Discussions · Workshops · Awards Gala · Cultural Exchange Night · Partnership Roundtables
Post-Tour Experience
July 5, 6, 7 & 8 — 4 Day Tour
Niagara Falls · City of Toronto · Brampton Cultural Immersion · Investment Site Visits · Global Farewell Ceremony · EEA 2027 Announcement
Day 1 — July 2
Day 2 — July 3
Day 3 — July 4
🌎 Post-Tour Day 1
🌎 Post-Tour Day 2
🌎 Post-Tour Day 3
🌎 Post-Tour Day 4
Morning
10:00 AM
Official Opening Ceremony
A powerful launch to EmpowerHer Excellence Awards 2026, featuring distinguished keynotes from government leaders, policymakers, and women's empowerment champions. Setting the stage for three days of dialogue, recognition, and partnership-building.
KeynoteOpeningLeadership
Late Morning
11:30 AM
Delegate Meet & Greet — Networking Reception
An inclusive and dynamic opening networking session bringing together government leaders, investors, entrepreneurs, cultural innovators, and impact-driven professionals from across Africa and Canada. Curated introductions, conversation spaces, and targeted meet-ups to build the relationships that will drive collaboration throughout the event.
NetworkingDelegates
Afternoon
2:00 PM
Exhibitions Opening — Showcasing Impact
Exhibitions from leading organizations, NGOs, businesses, and social enterprises that are advancing women's empowerment across Africa and Canada. A vibrant, interactive showcase of programs, initiatives, and innovations creating real opportunities for women to thrive.
ExhibitionInnovationSocial Impact
Evening
7:00 PM
Cultural Exchange Night
An electrifying evening celebrating the shared heritage and diversity of Africa and Canada — a night of cultural performances, music, art, and authentic connection. Showcasing African excellence in the heart of Brampton, Ontario, and celebrating the vibrant diaspora community that bridges both continents.
CultureHeritageCelebration
Morning
9:00 AM
Education, Women & Youth Empowerment Forum
The morning session focuses on education, women's leadership, and youth empowerment as critical foundations for global progress. Bringing together educators, policymakers, innovators, gender-equity advocates, and youth leaders for a dynamic exchange. Through keynote reflections, panel discussions, and empowerment spotlights, this session explores how women can be supported to lead across all sectors — anchored in African excellence and diaspora brilliance.
EducationYouthWomen's Leadership
Late Morning
11:00 AM
Leadership & Policy Dialogues — High-Level Panels
High-level panel discussions bringing together ministers, city leaders, policy strategists, and public-sector innovators to explore collaborative frameworks that advance women's empowerment. This session focuses on building gender-inclusive policy environments, improving access to opportunity, and addressing governance challenges with practical, implementable solutions.
PolicyGovernmentDiplomacy
Afternoon
2:00 PM
Partnership Forums — Business, Trade & Investment
For governments, investors, and NGOs to design cross-continental collaborations. Featuring entrepreneurs, investors, trade agencies, and innovation leaders. This session dives into investment pathways, emerging market opportunities, and strategies to strengthen economic growth and women's financial inclusion across Africa and Canada.
InvestmentTradePartnership
Afternoon
4:00 PM
Workshops & Knowledge-Sharing Breakouts
Intimate, expert-led workshops on entrepreneurship, leadership capacity building, financial literacy, digital empowerment, and advocacy. Hands-on sessions designed to equip attendees with practical tools and connections they can use immediately — and long after the event.
WorkshopsSkillsBreakout
Evening
6:30 PM
Closed-Door Leadership Roundtables
Exclusive, invitation-only roundtables for senior decision-makers, policymakers, and executive leaders. A rare space for candid, high-stakes conversation about advancing women's empowerment at the systems level — and committing to specific actions and partnerships.
ExclusiveVIPRoundtable
Morning
10:00 AM
City of Brampton Immersive Tour
An immersive exploration of Brampton — one of Canada's fastest-growing and most culturally vibrant cities. Delegates experience Brampton's thriving business districts, innovation corridors, landmark cultural spaces, and community initiatives. A rich opportunity to understand Canada's most diverse city and identify investment and partnership opportunities within it.
TourBramptonCulture
Afternoon
2:00 PM
Legacy Commitments & Final Partnership Announcements
A powerful session where partnerships forged over three days are formalized, legacy commitments are declared publicly, and the ecosystem of change-makers strengthens its bonds. Featuring surprise announcements, investment pledges, and the confirmation of next steps for cross-continental collaboration.
PartnershipsLegacyCommitments
Evening
7:00 PM
EmpowerHer Excellence Awards Gala Ceremony
The centrepiece of the three-day platform — an illustrious black-tie Awards Gala celebrating excellence, leadership, and transformational impact. Featuring powerful tributes, inspiring stories, and prestigious award presentations across 50 categories. Government leaders, business icons, cultural trailblazers, and community champions are honoured for their commitment to empowering women across Africa and Canada. A night of recognition, pride, and unity — followed by a celebratory gala dinner.
AwardsGalaBlack TieCelebration
Post-Tour
July 5 · All Day
Post-Tour Day 1 — Niagara Falls Cultural Experience
An unforgettable post-gala excursion to one of the world's most iconic natural wonders — Niagara Falls, Ontario. Delegates, VIP guests, award winners, and cultural ambassadors journey together for an immersive experience blending nature, heritage, and cross-continental bonding. Guided cultural storytelling, scenic viewpoints, networking moments against the majestic backdrop of the falls, and curated group experiences celebrating the natural wonder of Canada. A refreshing, inspiring, and deeply memorable highlight for all attendees.
TourNiagara FallsCultural
Evening
7:00 PM
Niagara Farewell Dinner & Networking
A relaxed waterfront dinner with panoramic views — celebrating the connections made, the awards given, and the partnerships forged over the first three days. An evening of reflection, celebration, and the beginning of lasting cross-continental friendships.
DinnerNetworking
Post-Tour
July 6 · Morning
Post-Tour Day 2 — City of Toronto Immersive Exploration
A curated immersion into Canada's largest and most cosmopolitan city — Toronto. Delegates experience the city's iconic skyline, vibrant cultural districts, innovation hubs, and the beating heart of Canada's most diverse urban community. From the CN Tower to Kensington Market, from Bay Street to the Distillery District — Toronto is a city that shows what a truly inclusive society looks like. A perfect backdrop for conversations about investment, cultural diplomacy, and the future of Africa–Canada relations.
TorontoCity TourCulture
Afternoon
2:00 PM
Business & Investment Site Visits — Toronto Innovation District
Guided visits to Toronto's leading innovation corridors, women-led enterprises, investment institutions, and cultural organizations. A hands-on opportunity for delegates from Africa, USA, China, India, and the UAE to explore partnership opportunities in one of North America's most dynamic business ecosystems. Facilitated introductions and curated meetings for those seeking specific investment or trade connections.
BusinessInvestmentInnovation
Post-Tour
July 7 · All Day
Post-Tour Day 3 — Brampton Cultural Deep Dive & Community Engagement
A full-day immersion into the soul of Brampton — one of the most culturally vibrant and diverse cities on earth. Delegates explore the city's African and South Asian cultural communities, visit landmark community spaces, engage with local women entrepreneurs and leaders, and experience the grassroots energy of a city that embodies what EmpowerHer stands for. Community visits, cultural cuisine experiences, local market tours, and informal conversations with Brampton's inspiring women leaders.
BramptonCommunityCulture
Evening
6:30 PM
Global Delegate Dinner — All Six Regions
A landmark dinner bringing together delegates from all six regions — Canada, Africa, USA, China, India, and UAE — for a final evening of connection before the closing day. A celebration of what this global gathering has built: new friendships, new partnerships, and a shared commitment to fueling women's excellence for generations to come.
Global DinnerAll Regions
Post-Tour
July 8 · Morning
Post-Tour Day 4 — Legacy Closing Ceremony & Farewell
The closing day of EmpowerHer Excellence Awards 2026 begins with a reflective Legacy Closing Ceremony — a powerful moment where delegates formalize their commitments, sign partnership declarations, and share the stories they will carry home to their communities, governments, and organizations. Facilitators guide a structured session where each regional delegation announces one concrete action they will take to advance women's empowerment in their region over the next 12 months.
LegacyClosingCommitments
Afternoon
12:00 PM
EmpowerHer 2027 Announcement & Global Farewell
The grand finale of the seven-day journey. The Stuka Foundation officially announces EmpowerHer Excellence Awards 2027 — the next destination, dates, and vision. Delegates gather for a final group moment, photographs, and the exchange of commitments. A farewell celebration that marks not an ending, but the beginning of a global movement that will grow stronger with every edition. Safe travels — and see you at EmpowerHer 2027.
EEA 2027FarewellMovement
Award Categories

50 Categories Honoring Excellence

Recognizing the full spectrum of stakeholders driving women's empowerment across 6 global regions — from grassroots community advocates to heads of state, global industry leaders, and cultural icons.

Government & Policy
CAT 01
Head of State — Women's Empowerment Champion
CAT 02
Minister of the Year — Gender Equality
CAT 03
Ambassador for Women's Rights
CAT 04
Best Policy Innovation for Women
CAT 05
City & Local Government Champion
CAT 06
Legislative Excellence — Women's Rights
CAT 07
International Cooperation Award
CAT 08
Public Sector Leader of the Year
Corporate & Business
CAT 09
Corporate Excellence in Gender Equality
CAT 10
Women Entrepreneur of the Year
CAT 11
Best Workplace for Women
CAT 12
SME of the Year — Women-Led Business
CAT 13
Investment in Women's Leadership
CAT 14
Best Corporate Social Responsibility — Women
CAT 15
Tech Innovation for Women's Empowerment
CAT 16
Financial Inclusion Champion
NGO & Social Impact
CAT 17
NGO of the Year — Women's Rights
CAT 18
Community Development Champion
CAT 19
Social Impact Innovator
CAT 20
Best Grassroots Women's Organization
CAT 21
Humanitarian Award — Women & Girls
CAT 22
Partnership for Empowerment
Education & Research
CAT 23
Educational Institution of the Year
CAT 24
Best Research in Gender Studies
CAT 25
Scholarship & Mentorship Champion
CAT 26
Youth Empowerment Award
CAT 27
STEM Champion for Girls & Women
Health & Wellness
CAT 28
Health Innovation for Women
CAT 29
Mental Health Advocate of the Year
CAT 30
Maternal Health Champion
CAT 31
Women in Healthcare Leadership
Arts, Culture & Media
CAT 32
Media Excellence in Women's Empowerment
CAT 33
Cultural Ambassador for Women
CAT 34
Best Documentary on Women's Stories
CAT 35
Literary Excellence — Women's Voices
CAT 36
Digital Creator of the Year
CAT 37
Entertainment Industry Champion
Sports & Lifestyle
CAT 38
Sports Champion for Women's Empowerment
CAT 39
Women in Sports Leadership
CAT 40
Wellness & Lifestyle Innovator
International & Diaspora
CAT 41
African Diaspora Excellence Award
CAT 42
Global Women's Leadership Award
CAT 43
International Partnership Award
CAT 44
Cross-Continental Collaboration Award
CAT 45
Canada–Africa Bridge Award
Special Recognition
CAT 46
Lifetime Achievement Award
CAT 47
Rising Star — Women's Empowerment
CAT 48
Innovation in Women's Financial Empowerment
CAT 49
Traditional & Cultural Leadership for Women
CAT 50
EmpowerHer Special Recognition Award
Who Attends

Expected Participants

A powerful cross-section of leaders, innovators, and changemakers from across Africa, Canada, and the global diaspora.

Government Officials & Policymakers
Ministers, ambassadors, city leaders, and public-sector innovators from Africa and Canada
Business Leaders & Corporate Representatives
Executives, CEOs, and corporate champions driving gender equity in their organizations
Non-Profits & Women's Rights Groups
NGOs, civil society organizations, and advocacy groups working on the frontlines
Educational & Research Institutions
Universities, think-tanks, and research bodies advancing knowledge on gender equity
Social Entrepreneurs & Innovators
Bold changemakers building businesses and solutions that create opportunity for women
Investors, Development Partners & Philanthropists
Capital providers and development finance institutions investing in women's futures
Media & Cultural Influencers
Journalists, content creators, and cultural leaders who amplify women's stories
Africa–Canada Diaspora Communities
Diaspora leaders, community organizers, and cultural custodians bridging two continents
Why Attend

Six Reasons to Be in the Room

This is not a conference you attend — it is a movement you become part of. Here is what awaits those who join us in Brampton, Ontario this July.

01
Global Visibility at a World Moment
With FIFA World Cup 2026 drawing the world's attention to Canada, your participation at EmpowerHer places your organization and leadership at the center of an unprecedented global spotlight.
02
Strategic Cross-Continental Partnerships
Access a curated network of decision-makers, investors, government officials, and social innovators from Africa and Canada — ready to build lasting collaborations that drive real impact for women.
03
Policy Influence & Advocacy
Engage directly in high-level dialogues that shape policies, frameworks, and investment decisions affecting women at the systemic level — across two continents and beyond.
04
Prestigious International Recognition
An EmpowerHer Excellence Award is a mark of distinction recognized by governments, media, institutions, and peers worldwide — elevating your organization's credibility and reach.
05
Investment & Funding Pathways
Connect directly with investors, development partners, and philanthropists who are actively seeking to fund impactful projects and businesses that serve and empower women.
06
Cultural Exchange & Diaspora Connection
Experience the richness of African excellence in a Canadian setting — celebrating the diversity, heritage, and resilience of communities that are shaping the world's most inclusive future.
Sponsorship Opportunities

Partner With Purpose

By sponsoring EmpowerHer Excellence Awards 2026, you align your organization with a transformative platform dedicated to empowering women across Africa and Canada — at a moment when the world is watching. Custom sponsorship tiers offer unparalleled visibility, access, and impact.

Platinum
Prime Partner
  • Prime visibility — top billing across all channels and materials
  • Speaking slot at the main stage ceremony
  • Large exhibition booth (prime, high-traffic location)
  • Full-page feature in event programme & media kit
  • VIP table for 10 at the Awards Gala
  • Logo on ID cards, lanyards & all event materials
  • Video clip screening throughout the conference
  • Dedicated MC mentions at key programme moments
  • Exclusive social media campaign collaboration
  • Post-event report feature & media placement
Gold
Strategic Partner
  • Prominent logo visibility across event materials
  • Mid-size exhibition booth (prime placement)
  • Half-page feature in event programme
  • Media coverage & press release mentions
  • Logo on ID cards & event signage
  • Video clip screening during conference
  • MC mentions at key event moments
  • VIP table for 6 at the Awards Gala
  • Social media recognition & tagging
Silver
Supporting Partner
  • Logo display on select event materials
  • Small exhibition booth
  • Networking access to all sessions
  • Delegate passes (2 included)
  • Online recognition on event platforms
  • Social media mention & tagging
  • Customized benefits available on request

Interested in a custom partnership package? We'd love to design something that meets your specific goals.

Discuss Sponsorship
Expected Outcomes

What This Three-Day Platform Creates

Recognition of Champions
Celebrating the stakeholders championing women's empowerment in Africa and Canada — elevating their work on the global stage
New Cross-Continental Partnerships
Collaborations between African and Canadian institutions that are formalized, funded, and built to last well beyond the event
Increased Visibility for Women's Initiatives
Amplified global reach for programs and innovations that uplift women — through media, networks, and the World Cup spotlight
Stronger Policy Commitments
Concrete investment pledges and policy decisions towards gender equality, women's leadership, and inclusive development
A Sustainable Global Network
A growing, thriving ecosystem of stakeholders across Africa and Canada committed to women's empowerment for generations to come
Greater Investment in Women
New capital, resources, and backing flowing toward women-led enterprises and organizations advancing gender equity across both continents
Get Involved

Register Your Interest

EmpowerHer Excellence Awards 2026 is happening July 2–4 in Brampton, Ontario — right in the heart of the FIFA World Cup 2026 moment in Canada. Spaces are limited. Register your interest now and our team will be in touch with full details.

Whether you are an individual leader, an organization seeking to sponsor or exhibit, a nominee, or a media partner — we want to hear from you.

Attend as a delegate — individuals & organizations
Nominate a leader for an Excellence Award
Sponsor or exhibit at the event
Apply for media accreditation
Volunteer or partner with the Stuka Foundation
Join the Africa–Canada empowerment movement

Register Your Interest

July 2–4, 2026 · Brampton, Ontario, Canada

We will respond within 48 hours. Your information is kept private and will only be used to follow up on your enquiry.

Join Us in Fueling Her Excellence

EmpowerHer Excellence Awards 2026 — July 2–4, Brampton, Ontario, Canada. Organized by the Stuka Foundation. Africa meets Canada. The world is watching.

Register Now Contact Us Sponsorship Enquiry