Rwanda’s story of women in leadership is often told from the top down. Yet, the most transformative leadership today is happening elsewhere—in studios and farms, labs and startups, classrooms and newsrooms, hospitals and sports fields. These women may not always make the headlines, but they are shaping Rwanda’s future in real time.
The Women in Leadership Summit 2026 (WILS 2026) returns for its third edition with a clear mission: to highlight the leaders behind the progress, the women whose influence is felt long before it is formally recognized. With nominations now officially open, WILS 2026 invites the nation to look again—this time with intention.
The Women in Leadership Summit & Awards (WILS) is a transformative annual event dedicated to empowering women to rise to leadership roles. Through workshops, intergenerational panels, and mentorship programs, WILS creates a platform for dialogue, innovation, and systemic change. It celebrates and elevate the voices of women leaders shaping Africa's future.
A Platform That Writtes Who Gets Recognized
WILS is not about symbolic inclusion. It is about visibility with substance. Each year, the Summit curates and elevates stories of women whose leadership is: Practical, not performative; Rooted in community, innovation, and resilience; and Driving measurable impact across Rwanda’s social and economic landscape.
By doing so, WILS expands the definition of leadership—making room for women whose work may not fit traditional power narratives, yet fundamentally shapes systems, industries, and lives.
Nominations Open: Who Is Leading Change in Your World?
From technology to agriculture, from creative expression to scientific innovation, WILS 2026 calls on the public to nominate women redefining leadership in their fields.
Nomination categories include: Trailblazer in Tech; Outstanding Leadership in Finance; Social Impact Award; Health & Wellness Pioneer; Rising Star in Entrepreneurship ; Leading Light in Education; Top Talent in Arts & Culture; Advocate for Equality Majestic; Sportswoman; Queen of Green (Environmentalist); Excellence in Agriculture; The Innovative Scientist; Hospitality & Tourism Luminary; Media Maven
Nominations period: 5 January – 31 January Submit Nominations
Submit nominations: Nominate here: https://wilsafrica.com/ Tap HERE to register for free.
This is your invitation to recognize women whose leadership you witness daily—often without applause, awards, or amplification.
Why WILS Matters—Now More Than Ever
Recognition changes trajectories. When women leaders are named, documented, and celebrated: Their work gains legitimacy and scale; Their stories become reference points for others; Young women see leadership pathways that feel attainable and real
WILS 2026 does not just celebrate excellence—it archives it, ensuring Rwanda’s leadership story reflects the full range of women shaping its present and future.
Join the National Conversation
WILS 2026 is not only about who wins an award—it is about who we choose to see. "Nominate a woman. Share her story. Help redefine leadership, one name at a time. The third chapter of WILS is now being written. Who will you put on the map?" WILS Organizers.
The Women in Leadership Summit 2026 (WILS 2026) returns for its third edition