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PAALA 2026

PAALA 2026: A HUGE SUCCESS AS AWLO HONORS 25 GLOBAL LEADERS IN WASHINGTON, DC*

_African Women in Leadership Organization Celebrates Excellence, Impact and Legacy at The Melrose Georgetown Hotel_

*WASHINGTON, DC — August 17, 2026* — The African Women in Leadership Organization (AWLO) successfully hosted the *PAALA 2026 Awards & Gala* on Saturday at The Melrose Georgetown Hotel in Washington, DC, USA.

The prestigious gathering brought together global leaders, diplomats, business executives, advocates and change-makers to honor 25 distinguished Lifetime Achievement Honorees whose exceptional contributions have advanced leadership, impact and legacy across Africa and the diaspora.

This year’s edition of PAALA — the Pan African Leadership Awards & Assembly — delivered an unforgettable evening of celebration, networking and inspiration under the powerful theme:

*“Leadership. Impact. Legacy.”*

*Distinguished Dignitaries and Global Presence*
The evening was graced by an impressive array of eminent personalities, including *H.E. Dr. Michael Obeng* , who delivered the *keynote address;* *Mr. Aniekpeno Mkpanang* , who served as *Chairman of PAALA 2026* ; and *Senator Florence Ita Giwa,* who attended as the *Special Guest of Honor.*

The evening commenced with the exclusive *PAALA Honorees Arrival and Penthouse Networking Reception* at the AWLO PAALA Penthouse, where early arrivals were warmly received.

Among the distinguished guests were *Mrs. Olayinka Creighton-Randall* , Executive Administrator to H.E. Ambassador Arikana Chihombori-Quao and President of ADDI, and *Professor Lady Astrid Arens,* President of Voice Aid Germany.

**A Night of Excellence and Global Sisterhood*
*
The energy and excitement continued into the main gala as honorees and distinguished guests from across continents connected, exchanged ideas, shared experiences and celebrated the transformative power of women in leadership.

From the compelling keynote address to heartfelt tributes, inspiring speeches and vibrant cultural performances, the evening powerfully reflected AWLO’s core mission: to unapologetically champion African excellence, elevate women in leadership and build bridges of collaboration across the globe.

_PAALA 2026 was more than a celebration. It was a convergence of vision, experience, culture and purpose._

*Leadership Recognized, Legacy Cemented*

The 25 PAALA 2026 Lifetime Achievement Honorees were recognized for their transformative contributions across governance, business, advocacy, healthcare, education, humanitarian service and other fields of societal development.

Each honoree received the prestigious PAALA Lifetime Achievement Award, celebrating a remarkable journey of service, excellence and enduring impact.

“This is what AWLO is about,” said *Amb. Dr. Elisha Attai, Founder of AWLO* . “Watching leaders from Kenya, Germany and across the world meet for the first time, exchange notes, laugh, dance and build together — that is the energy that drives this movement. PAALA 2026 was not just an awards night. It was a statement that when women lead, the world wins.”

The Event also featured the successful inauguration of the AWLO DMV chapter with its Chairperson as *Mrs Sandra Ekpeyong*

*Partners and Gratitude*

AWLO extends its sincere appreciation to The Melrose Georgetown Hotel, *PAALA 2026 Chairman Mr. Aniekpeno Mkpanang, Keynote Speaker H.E. Dr. Michael Obeng, Special Guest of Honor Senator Florence Ita Giwa* , as well as all corporate partners, sponsors, media partners, members of the AWLO global team and every distinguished guest who traveled to Washington, DC, to make PAALA 2026 a resounding success.

The organization also acknowledges the invaluable support of diplomatic missions, civil society organizations and members of the African diaspora community whose continued commitment and partnership are helping to elevate African leadership and excellence on the global stage.

*About AWLO*

The African Women in Leadership Organization (AWLO) is a global network committed to advancing the economic empowerment, leadership development and visibility of African women.

Through leadership programmes, mentorship, advocacy, networking and prestigious recognition platforms such as PAALA, AWLO provides opportunities to celebrate excellence, amplify impact and help build the next generation of influential women leaders.

_PAALA 2026 has come and gone, but its message remains:_

*LEADERSHIP. IMPACT. LEGACY.*

When women lead, the world wins.

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www.awlo.africa

Announcer
Theodora Ajegwu
Dean AWLO Executive Council

PAALA 2026 Read More »

CANADA DIASPORA SUMMIT

AWLO CANADA DIASPORA SUMMIT 2026

The AWLO Canada Diaspora Summit 2026 concluded successfully, bringing together African women, Caribbean women, Jamaican women, Black women across the Diaspora, and our HeForShe allies.

The Summit was designed to unite leadership, drive collaboration, and position Diaspora women at decision-making tables across Canada.

The day began with an impactful morning session focused on dialogue, policy, and nation-building. Leaders from Brampton to Vancouver engaged in conversations on Unity, Leadership, and Nation-Building across healthcare, education, business, tech, policy, and the arts.

The event culminated in the classic Canada Legacy Honors Gala in the evening an elegant celebration recognizing excellence and closing the year on a high note.

AWLO Canada extends sincere appreciation to our development partners, the City of Brampton, our esteemed sponsors, and to Courtyard by Marriott Brampton for their warm hospitality and for being an excellent host.

AWLO Canada: Diaspora Voices. Canadian Impact. Global Legacy.

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AFRICAN HERITAGE AWARDS 2026

A truly proud and defining moment for the entire AWLO global family.

Congratulations to our founder and global President, Amb. Dr. Elisha Attai on this well-deserved recognition. This honour is not just a celebration of individual excellence, but a powerful reflection of the impact, vision, and commitment to humanity that AWLO stands for across the globe.

We celebrate your inspiring leadership, your unwavering dedication to empowering women, and the legacy you continue to build alongside your incredible partner of 28 years, an embodiment of strength, support, and purpose.

Our sincere appreciation to the African Heritage Awards and Heritage Times for recognising transformative leadership, and to H.E. John Mahama for hosting such a prestigious and impactful gathering.

Indeed, it was a convergence of excellence. Africa at its finest.

The AWLO global community celebrates you. This win is for all of us.

Doris Umunnakwe-Okolie

AWLO Media and Communication Director.

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AWLO KENYA LAUNCH International Women’s Dialogue 2026

International Women’s Dialogue held at the Serena Hotel, Nairobi, marking the official launch of AWLO Kenya.

The high-level gathering brought together women leaders and allies from across sectors to advance conversations on women’s leadership, economic empowerment, and inclusive development across Africa.

Vice-President of AWLO Kenya. Alice A. Odera, and The Founder and President of AWLO Amb. Dr. Elisha Attai, set the tone for the day by calling for bold leadership and deeper collaboration to unlock the full economic and leadership potential of African women.

Delivering a keynote address,Sally Mahihu, Chairperson Ken invest, spoke about leadership, wealth and legacy and the need to strategically take actions that not only develop leadership and wealth but also sustain it.

Chief Guest Speaker Hon. Millie Odhiambo Mabona, Member of the National Assembly of Kenya, spoke on “From Legislation to Liberation ; The Gender Equality Agenda in Kenya,” highlighting the need to bridge the gap between progressive laws and real outcomes for women.

Another keynote speaker, Betty Karimi Managing Director and Founder, Recolte Limited and Convener of the SHEconomy Summit, emphasized the importance of gender-smart investment, noting that investing in women is a strategic economic imperative for Africa’s growth.

The programme featured expert-led sessions on economic development, ethical financial systems, and women-led industries. Speakers included development economist Sheila Olang’ Owigo, trade and investment expert Dottie Oliech, Easter Okechi Executive Director of the Kenya Female Advisory Organisation (KEFEADO), and media leader Queenter Mbori, Executive Director of the Association of Media Women in Kenya. Discussions explored financial inclusion, cross-border trade opportunities, and the power of storytelling and media in shaping women’s leadership narratives.

Fireside conversations also featured Aulgah Nato, an award-winning fashion designer, and Vinita Ochieng, Founder of VOW Wellness, who shared insights on building purpose-driven businesses and industries led by African women.

A highlight of the event was the official launch of AWLO Kenya , signaling a new chapter in strengthening African women’s leadership networks and creating platforms that support women in governance, business, and social impact.

The Dialogue concluded with a networking session facilitated by Alice A. Odera, designed to foster collaboration and partnerships among participants committed to advancing women’s leadership across the continent.

AWLO KENYA LAUNCH International Women’s Dialogue 2026 Read More »

Port Harcourt, Rivers State

AWLO PRESS RELEASE

March 2, 2026

AWLO Rivers State Chapter Relaunched in Grand Style

Distinguished Senator Ipalibo Harry Banigo Decorated as Life Patroness

Port Harcourt, Rivers State

The African Women in Leadership Organisation (AWLO) Rivers State Chapter was officially relaunched on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at the prestigious Osborne La Palm Hotel, in a vibrant ceremony marked by leadership renewal, recognition of excellence, and a renewed commitment to advancing women’s leadership across the state.

The landmark event welcomed dignitaries, leaders, policymakers, and community stakeholders from across the region.

A major highlight of the ceremony was the decoration of Ipalibo Harry Banigo, Distinguished Senator and former Deputy Governor of Rivers State, as AWLO Life Patroness. This prestigious honor recognizes her decades of unwavering commitment, advocacy, and remarkable achievements in advancing the cause of women and community development.

In addition to her decoration, Senator Banigo was unveiled as the Face of the 2026 AWLO Magazine, which was officially launched during the event.

The magazine celebrates impactful women leaders and chronicles inspiring stories of transformation and service across Africa.

The event was graced by the First Lady of Nigeria, Her Excellency Sen. Oluremi Tinubu; the Executive Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminalayi Fubara; and the Wife of the Rivers State Governor, Her Excellency Lady Valerie Fubara all ably represented by the Deputy Governor of Rivers State, Her Excellency Prof. Ngozi Nma Odu, whose presence underscored the state government’s continued support for women’s leadership and inclusive governance.

Further underscoring AWLO’s commitment to inclusive partnership and male allyship in advancing gender equity, four distinguished gentlemen were formally recognized and decorated as AWLO HeForShe Champions. They include:

•Sir Siminalayi Fubara; Executive Governor of Rivers State

•Chief Nabil Saleh

•Dr. Emmanuel Emefienim

•Ambassador Clinton Fubara Snr.

This special recognition celebrates their outstanding support for women’s leadership, advocacy for gender inclusion, and demonstrated commitment to policies and initiatives that empower women across professional, civic, and community spaces.

Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Elizabeth Ekole charged women to embrace visionary leadership, resilience, and collaboration as catalysts for sustainable development. Her address emphasized the importance of strengthening networks that empower women economically, socially, and politically by strategically nurturing their health and wellbeing.

The ceremony also witnessed the formal admission of new leaders into the AWLO community, reinforcing the organisation’s mission of nurturing transformative female leadership at local, national, and continental levels.

The Honourable President and Founder of AWLO, Amb. Dr. Elisha Attai, described the relaunch of the Rivers State Chapter as “a strategic step toward deepening our impact and building a stronger ecosystem for women leaders in Rivers State and beyond.” He reiterated AWLO’s commitment to capacity building, mentorship, and strategic partnerships that elevate women into positions of influence and impact.

In attendance were esteemed members of the AWLO Executive Council, including the Dean of the AWLO Executive Council, Mrs. Theodora Ajegwu, as well as the State Chairperson of AWLO Akwa Ibom Chapter, Madam Elizabeth Etebom, who lent solidarity and regional support to the relaunch.

The relaunch marks a new chapter for AWLO Rivers State, positioning the chapter to expand its programs, foster cross-sector collaboration, and champion initiatives that advance gender equity, leadership excellence, and community transformation.

As AWLO continues to build a formidable network of women leaders across Africa and the diaspora, the Rivers State relaunch stands as a testament to the organisation’s enduring vision: empowering women to lead with integrity, competence, and purpose.

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