- Nominations Open · 65 Award Categories
IKWA 2026 Awards Gala
Published
Tickets
Voting
Event Day
Results
09 May 2026
06:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Southfield Mall, Nairobi
The Independent Kenya Women Awards (IKWA) 2026 brings together Kenya's most outstanding women in leadership, business, and social impact for an unforgettable evening of recognition and celebration.
Join us as we honour the Top 100 Women in Leadership, Top 100 Women in Business & Brands, 100 Women of Influence in Kenya, and crown the Miss Independent Kenya 2026.
The evening features a gala dinner, live entertainment, and an inspiring programme celebrating Kenyan women who are shaping the nation's future.
Theme: Celebrating Women Who Shape Kenya's Future
Join us as we honour the Top 100 Women in Leadership, Top 100 Women in Business & Brands, 100 Women of Influence in Kenya, and crown the Miss Independent Kenya 2026.
The evening features a gala dinner, live entertainment, and an inspiring programme celebrating Kenyan women who are shaping the nation's future.
Theme: Celebrating Women Who Shape Kenya's Future
Saturday, 30 May 2026
4:00 PM
6:00 PM
6:00 PM
Ceremony
Lobby & Terrace – Radisson Blu Upper HillCocktail Reception & Red Carpet Arrivals
Guests arrive at the Radisson Blu for the IKWA 2026 Awards Gala. Red carpet, cocktails, photography and pre-dinner networking.
6:00 PM
6:30 PM
6:30 PM
Master of Ceremonies
IKWA 2026 Awards GalaGala Opening Ceremony
Official opening of the IKWA 2026 Awards Gala. Welcome remarks, national anthem and introduction of distinguished guests.
6:30 PM
7:00 PM
7:00 PM
Chief Guest
Principal Guest of HonourKeynote Address
An inspiring address on the theme "Celebrating Women Who Shape Kenya's Future" — reflecting on Kenya's progress in women's empowerment and the road ahead.
7:00 PM
8:30 PM
8:30 PM
Awards Committee
IKWA Judging PanelAwards Ceremony — Top 100 Women in Leadership & Business
Presentation of awards for Top 100 Women in Leadership and Top 100 Women in Business & Brands. Awardees share brief acceptance remarks.
8:30 PM
9:00 PM
9:00 PM
Awards Committee
IKWA Judging PanelAwards Ceremony — 100 Women of Influence & Miss Independent Kenya
Honouring the 100 Women of Influence and the grand crowning of Miss Independent Kenya 2026.
9:00 PM
11:00 PM
11:00 PM
Entertainment
Grand BallroomGala Dinner, Live Music & Celebration
Full gala dinner service accompanied by live music and entertainment. Networking with awardees, sponsors and distinguished guests.
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TV Female News Anchor of the Year – Kenya
5 nomineesHonouring the best female TV news anchor who has demonstrated excellence, credibility, and impactful journalism on national television.
Winner
MY
Marie Yambo
TV News Anchor, KBC
385 votes
MK
Mashirima Kapombe
Senior Anchor & Correspondent, Citizen TV
31 votes
HM
Hadiya Mwasiwa
TV Journalist & News Anchor
1 votes
LA
Linda Alela
TV News Presenter
FM
Fridah Mwaka
News Anchor & Reporter
Vernacular Female Radio Media Personality of the Year – Kenya
6 nomineesHonouring radio personalities who entertain, inform, and inspire using local Kenyan languages.
Winner
Lydia Nyairabu
Vernacular Radio Personality
7,282 votes
Virginia Mwikali
Vernacular Radio Presenter
6,170 votes
EO
Elizabeth Odada
Radio Personality & Host
579 votes
Shan Kwamboka Risase
Radio Host & Presenter
210 votes
Mzima Mzima (Muthoni wa Wainaina)
Radio Personality, Kikuyu Radio
Mildred Momanyi
Vernacular Radio Host
Most Impactful Women-Led Initiatives & Foundations in Kenya
4 nomineesRecognising foundations and initiatives led by women that have driven measurable, positive change in Kenyan communities.
Winner
FO
Founder of Light After Cancer Foundation
Founder & Cancer Advocate
1,529 votes
Y
Yomosco
Women Empowerment & Enterprise Initiative
25 votes
DN
Daisy Nyongesa Foundation
Community Development & Youth Empowerment
1 votes
CK
COSWA Kenya
Women's Rights & Social Welfare Organisation
Vernacular TV Female News Anchor of the Year – Kenya
8 nomineesCelebrating female anchors who bring news to Kenyan communities in local languages, bridging information gaps and preserving cultural identity.
Winner
Caroline Muteti
Vernacular TV Anchor, Mutongoi TV
1,203 votes
Gathoni Nganga
Vernacular TV Anchor, Kameme TV
Fridah Kerubo
Vernacular TV News Anchor
SM
Stahamalla Mwendwa
Vernacular TV Anchor
Cynthia Terer
Vernacular TV News Presenter
Everline Osero
Vernacular TV Anchor
GL
Gladys Lembuch
Vernacular TV Journalist & Anchor
Zipporah Makamu
Vernacular TV Journalist
Vernacular Female Radio News Media Personality of the Year – Kenya
6 nomineesRecognising female radio journalists who deliver credible, impactful news in local Kenyan languages.
Winner
MO
Marion Ojwang
Radio Journalist & News Anchor
67 votes
MK
Miriam Koki
Vernacular Radio News Presenter
1 votes
WN
Wangui Ndirangu
Radio News Journalist, Kikuyu FM
FC
Faith Chirchir
Radio News Presenter
LC
Lilian Chepngetich
Radio News Journalist
CM
Christine Mwikali
Vernacular Radio News Journalist
Most Impactful Female DJ of the Year – Kenya
6 nomineesCelebrating female DJs who are breaking barriers, setting trends, and shaping Kenya's music scene through skill and cultural influence.
Winner
DJ Wiwa
Professional DJ & Entertainment Personality
351 votes
DC
DJ Coco
Professional DJ & Entertainer
20 votes
DS
Deejay Sonnia
Professional DJ & Music Producer
DJ Kezz
DJ, Music Producer & Gospel Artist
DJ Bunney
DJ & Music Entertainer
DJ Lisney
DJ & Creative Artist
Most Impactful Community Impact Champion of the Year
4 nomineesCelebrating individuals who have gone above and beyond to uplift their communities through service, advocacy, and grassroots action.
Winner
Alima Nanyama
Community Leader & Social Change Advocate
378 votes
Hillary Semeyan Lenantoiye
Community Advocate & Youth Leader
AN
Agnes Nkanya
Community Champion & Social Welfare Advocate
JN
Jane Nganga
Community Developer & Women's Advocate
Most Impactful Female Community Champion of the Year
8 nomineesCelebrating women who have gone above and beyond to uplift their communities through service, advocacy, and grassroots action.
Winner
Joreen Wanini
Community Leader & Women's Advocate
1,291 votes
Hillary Semeyan Lenantoiye
Community Advocate & Youth Leader
1,281 votes
Branice Indimuli Green
Community Leader & Development Advocate
804 votes
Vianey Muguro
Community Advocate & Women's Champion
414 votes
Avitus Nyambura Ngugi
Community Champion & Social Welfare Advocate
20 votes
Bilha Luseka
Community Champion & Social Advocate
Janet Chemitei
Community Developer & Social Change Agent
Gertrude Spears
Community Champion & Humanitarian
Vernacular Female TV Media Personality of the Year – Kenya
4 nomineesRecognising female media personalities who use vernacular TV to entertain, educate, and uplift their communities.
Winner
Diana Gisoi
Vernacular TV Personality
690 votes
Daisy Langat
TV Presenter & Media Personality
10 votes
Cheche 254
TV Personality & Content Creator
Katumbi 254
Vernacular TV Personality & Content Creator
Most Impactful Female Radio Media Personality of the Year – Kenya
5 nomineesCelebrating radio personalities whose influence and impact on Kenyan society goes beyond entertainment.
Winner
AM
Anita Mbuya Damiano
Radio Personality & Media Professional
153 votes
CM
Caroline Mkamburi
Radio Presenter & Personality
CK
Christine Kambua Joel
Radio Personality & Gospel Music Host
SM
Sally Mbeyu
Radio Presenter
VL
Valentine Ludiema
Radio Host & Community Advocate
Most Impactful Female Mix/Mashup DJ of the Year – Kenya
6 nomineesRecognising female DJs who have set the standard for creative mixing and mashup artistry, pushing the boundaries of Kenya's DJ culture.
Winner
KT
KJ The Deejay
Professional Mix DJ
635 votes
DN
DJ NYC Kenya
Mix DJ & Music Curator
1 votes
DD
Deejay Dii
Mashup DJ & Entertainment Personality
DZ
Deejay Zu
Mix DJ & Creative Performer
DC
DJ Celestar
Mix & Mashup DJ
DB
DJ Blue Kenya
Mix DJ & Music Entertainer
Most Impactful Female CEO/Founder in Leadership & Change
9 nomineesRecognising female founders and CEOs who are building impactful businesses and leading with vision, resilience, and purpose.
Winner
Jackline Wanjiru
Founder & Business Innovator
2,445 votes
Dorothy Mkunzi
CEO & Women's Economic Empowerment Advocate
2,114 votes
CD
Cathy Daniel
CEO & Business Leader
362 votes
Mana Omar
Founder & Entrepreneur
335 votes
Hannah Njoroge
CEO & Social Entrepreneur
273 votes
JJ
Jackie Jay
Founder & Business Leader
LT
Lily Tanui
CEO & Social Entrepreneur
LK
Lynnette Kinga
Founder & Business Innovator
Immaculate Onyoni
CEO & Entrepreneur
Most Impactful Female Radio News Presenter of the Year – Kenya
4 nomineesHonouring radio news presenters whose journalism has had the greatest positive impact on public awareness and community welfare.
Winner
AK
Asha Khamisi
Female Radio News Presenter, Kenya
647 votes
BM
Beatrice Maganga
Radio News Presenter
FK
Faith Kutere
Radio Journalist & News Anchor
CO
Christine Ojiambo
Radio News Presenter & Journalist
Most Impactful Youth Women Leader of the Year – Kenya
6 nomineesCelebrating young female leaders under 35 who are driving change in governance, civic engagement, and community development.
Winner
Carolyne Mboya
Youth Women Leader, Kenya
2,596 votes
Winfred Nyanduko Shem
Youth Women Leader, Kenya
2,447 votes
Jane Zawadi
Youth Women Leader, Kenya
164 votes
Eng. Lucky Muthoki
Youth Women Leader, Kenya
160 votes
Elizabeth N. Maina
Youth Leader & Women's Advocate
152 votes
Njeri Mbogo
Youth Women Leader, Kenya
86 votes
Most Impactful Talent to Watch
7 nomineesSpotlighting the most exciting emerging female talents across entertainment, performance, and digital creativity in Kenya.
Winner
AK
Avianna Kenya
Emerging Entertainer & Creative
203 votes
SW
Shanty Wangui
Emerging Artist & Content Creator
21 votes
MD
Myah Dancer
Dancer & Performing Artist
2 votes
NS
Nyabiya Syekei
Emerging Creative & Performer
AB
Aiko Bett Cherono
Emerging Talent & Creative Artist
PJ
Princess Jennie Favor
Emerging Entertainer & Performer
ZK
Zawadi Kayyoh
Emerging Artist & Digital Creative
Most Impactful Female Youth Leader in Kenya
9 nomineesCelebrating young female leaders under 35 who are driving change in governance, civic engagement, and community development.
Winner
RK
Ruth Kemunto Zico
Female Youth Leader, Kenya
802 votes
OD
Okello Daizy Linda
Youth Leader & Community Builder
397 votes
CY
Cherotich Yegon Mercy
Youth Leader & Gender Advocate
127 votes
EK
Evaline Kariuki
Youth Leader & Empowerment Advocate
107 votes
AM
Aisha Mohamed Mwachidzo
Youth Leader & Civic Activist
16 votes
DC
Doricas Cherotich
Youth Leader & Community Advocate
2 votes
NW
Njagi Winrose Kinya
Youth Leader & Development Champion
ZM
Zaujia Mahmoud
Youth Leader & Women's Rights Advocate
GW
Grace Wanene
Youth Leader & Social Entrepreneur
Most Impactful Media Personality of the Year – Kenya
6 nomineesCelebrating media personalities whose influence transcends their platform and drives positive societal impact across Kenya.
Winner
AW
Aurelia Wanja Kinyua
Media Personality & Brand Ambassador
524 votes
KM
Kalondu Musyimi
TV Host & Journalist
1 votes
JS
Jitabi Suleiman
Journalist & Media Influencer
AH
Azeezah Hashim
Media Personality & Content Creator
CN
Claudia Naisabwa
TV Presenter & Media Professional
MM
Mwende Macharia
Broadcast Journalist & TV Anchor
Most Impactful Female Student Leader of the Year
12 nomineesHonouring female students who are leading with courage, integrity, and innovation within their institutions and communities.
Winner
GA
Grace Achieng Ochieng
Student Leader & Civic Engagement Advocate
2,716 votes
RM
Racheal Makarious
Student Leader & Community Organiser
1,780 votes
JW
Jackline Waithira Gicinka
Student Leader & Community Champion
916 votes
PM
Purity Mutua
Student Leader & Social Advocate
583 votes
DC
Diana Chemitei
Student Leader & Youth Empowerment Advocate
403 votes
MM
Masek Milai
Student Leader & Cultural Ambassador
378 votes
ZW
Zipporah Waringa
Student Leader & Women's Empowerment Advocate
252 votes
MP
Muthoni Pascoline
Student Leader & Academic Motivator
131 votes
CW
Celestine Wakhu Patroba
Student Leader & Community Development Champion
44 votes
DC
Daisy Cherotich Tuei
Student Leader & Gender Equity Champion
39 votes
CE
Chemasa Esther Cheruto
Student Leader & Academic Excellence Advocate
14 votes
VB
Vanice Barongo Mokua
Student Leader & Academic Achiever
2 votes
Most Impactful Former Female Student Leader of the Year – Kenya
5 nomineesCelebrating women who demonstrated exceptional leadership during their student years and have carried that impact into their professional and community lives.
Winner
MA
Marcyline Arogo
Former Student Leader & Development Professional
2,222 votes
DS
Dianah Situma
Former Student Leader & Professional
2,170 votes
MB
Mercy Byegon
Former Student Leader & Community Champion
645 votes
JN
Joy Nyamvula
Former Student Leader & Empowerment Champion
243 votes
SM
Sophia Mutaura
Former Student Leader & Civic Advocate
99 votes
Most Impactful Environment Champion of the Year
4 nomineesRecognising women whose dedication to environmental conservation, climate action, and sustainability is making a measurable difference in Kenya and beyond.
Winner
SH
Sharon Harris
Environmental Champion & Community Mobiliser
174 votes
AC
Abby Chebet
Environmental Champion & Climate Advocate
FM
Fazeela Mubarak
Environmental Advocate & Sustainability Champion
LT
Lily Tanui
Environmental Leader & Social Entrepreneur
Most Impactful Female Gender Advocate Champion of the Year
5 nomineesHonouring women who have championed gender equality, women's rights, and the elimination of harmful practices across Kenyan communities.
Winner
SN
Sylvia Naanyu
Gender Equality Champion & Community Leader
495 votes
GS
Gladys Sawe
Gender Advocate & Women's Rights Champion
NL
Nice Leng'ete
Gender Rights Activist & Community Educator
FA
Farida Ally
Gender Advocate & Social Justice Champion
SS
Sereti S Nabaala
Gender Advocate & Women's Empowerment Leader
Most Impactful Model of the Year
6 nomineesRecognising female models who have made a significant impact on Kenya's fashion and creative industry through their professionalism, influence, and representation.
Winner
Corrie Monica
Model, Kenya
1,201 votes
Siteyian Parsimei
Model, Kenya
923 votes
Vivian Star
Model, Kenya
141 votes
Eunie Serene
Model, Kenya
63 votes
Regina Syombua
Model, Kenya
1 votes
Ace Maghanga
Model, Kenya
Most Impactful Digital Content Creator of the Year
8 nomineesHonouring female digital content creators who have built influential platforms and used their digital voice to educate, entertain, and empower audiences across Kenya and beyond.
Winner
I Am Kavisa
Digital Content Creator, Kenya
633 votes
Harriet Njenga
Digital Content Creator, Kenya
Joy Mwendwa
Digital Content Creator, Kenya
AW
Annette Wachira
Digital Content Creator, Kenya
NG
Nyandia Gachago
Digital Content Creator, Kenya
Angela Chepkwony
Digital Content Creator, Kenya
NP
Nanae Purity
Digital Content Creator, Kenya
VV
Vickie Vickinah
Digital Content Creator, Kenya
Most Impactful Female Dancer of the Year
8 nomineesCelebrating female dancers who have pushed creative boundaries and inspired audiences through their artistry, dedication, and cultural expression.
Winner
AM
Am Marsha
Dancer, Kenya
1,463 votes
MN
Miss Nafula
Dancer, Kenya
590 votes
LM
Lolo Mwangi
Dancer, Kenya
194 votes
BK
Baby Kiki
Dancer, Kenya
32 votes
SN
Sandra Nanga
Dancer, Kenya
12 votes
DL
Dance Lucee
Dancer, Kenya
3 votes
NM
Nduta Mwega
Dancer, Kenya
NA
Nyambu Art
Dancer, Kenya
Most Impactful Female Sports Content Creator of the Year
4 nomineesCelebrating female sports content creators who have amplified women's sports through compelling storytelling, commentary, and digital content that grows the game.
Winner
EK
Eunice Kerubo
Sports Content Creator, Kenya
357 votes
KS
Kawsar Siyat
Sports Content Creator, Kenya
330 votes
RK
Ruthviona Keraro
Sports Content Creator, Kenya
45 votes
BE
Betty Eric
Sports Content Creator, Kenya
32 votes
Most Impactful Female Actress of the Year
6 nomineesHonouring female actresses whose outstanding performances on screen and stage have captivated audiences and elevated the standard of Kenya's film and theatre industry.
Winner
M
Mariee
Actress, Kenya
310 votes
DL
Diana Luvanda
Actress, Kenya
260 votes
TG
Tamara Goddess
Actress, Kenya
22 votes
JM
Joan Mutheu
Actress, Kenya
CM
Carole Mutunga
Actress, Kenya
MM
Mjaka Mfine
Actress, Kenya
Most Impactful Female Football Coach of the Year
5 nomineesRecognising female football coaches who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, mentorship, and technical skill in developing women's football talent in Kenya.
Winner
Ruth Maina
Football Coach, Kenya
1,892 votes
EO
Emily Odinga
Football Coach, Kenya
1,506 votes
Mary Muthoni
Football Coach, Kenya
146 votes
Mary Atieno
Football Coach, Kenya
84 votes
Ann Aluoch
Football Coach, Kenya
10 votes
Choose your ticket type for IKWA 2026 Awards Gala.
Regular Ticket
KES 1,500
Regular seat with gala dinner at the Independent Kenya Women Awards 2026. Join us for an inspiring evening celebrating Kenya's most impactful women leaders.
- Event Programme
- Awards Ceremony Access
VIP Ticket
KES 5,000
VIP seat with priority seating and gala dinner at the Independent Kenya Women Awards 2026. Enjoy an elevated experience at one of Kenya's most prestigious women leadership awards ceremonies.
- Gala Dinner
- Priority Seating
- VIP Section Access
- Event Programme
Group of 5
KES 6,000
7,500
Save 20%
Group package of 5 regular seats at KES 6,000 — save KES 1,500 vs buying individually. Perfect for organisations and teams attending together.
- 5 Regular Seats
- Event Programme (x5)
- Awards Ceremony Access
- Group Discount — Save KES 1,500
Corporate Table (Table of 8)
KES 35,000
Exclusive corporate table for 8 guests at the Independent Kenya Women Awards 2026. Prime positioning at the venue with premium service, dedicated table host, and full visibility of the awards stage.
- 8 Seats
- Premium Gala Dinner (x8)
- Prime Table Positioning
- Dedicated Table Host
- VIP Lounge Access
- Event Programme (x8)
- Brand Visibility on Table