Trailblazer for Africa
About Trailblazer for Africa Award
The Trailblazer for Africa Award honors exceptional individuals—African or non African—whose vision, leadership, and contributions have significantly advanced Africa’s transformation and overall development. This prestigious recognition is reserved for those who have broken new ground, challenged conventional thinking, and inspired meaningful change in ways that uplift communities, strengthen institutions, and promote inclusive growth across the continent.
Recipients of the award are celebrated not only for their professional achievements but also for their enduring commitment to Africa’s progress—whether through pioneering innovation, championing social and economic reforms, expanding opportunities for the continent, or reinforcing Africa’s voice in global forums.
By recognizing these trailblazers, the award seeks to spotlight models of excellence that inspire future generations, foster collaboration, and reaffirm Africa’s place at the forefront of global transformation.
The award will be presented during a special lunch ceremony on October 14, 2026 at the Rembrandt Hotel in Bangkok.
The 2026 Trailblazer for Africa Award Honoree will be announced in October 2026.
2025 Trailblazer for Africa Awards
2026 Trailblazer for Africa Award Honoree
Meet the 2026 Trailblazer for Africa Award Honoree
Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala
Director-General, World Trade Organization
Former Minister of Finance, Federal Republic of Nigeria
Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala serves as the seventh Director-General of the World Trade Organization, a position she has held since March 2021. She is the first woman and the first African to lead the organization. In November 2024, all 166 WTO members reappointed her by consensus, and she began her second four-year term on 1 September 2025.

2025 Trailblazer for Africa Award Honoree
Linda Thomas-Greenfield, Former U.S Ambassador to the United Nations, Former Assistant Secretary of State for Africa.
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2025 Trailblazer for Africa Award Honoree

Linda Thomas-Greenfield
Former U.S Ambassador to the United Nations, Former Assistant Secretary of State for Africa.
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Eligibility Criteria
Vision & Leadership
Demonstrated foresight, courage, and the ability to mobilize others toward bold, long-term goals.
Innovation & Breakthroughs
Pioneering solutions that challenge conventions and produce replicable, scalable change.
Impact on Communities
Tangible contributions that uplift communities and expand opportunities, with evidence of sustained outcomes.
Institution-Building
Strengthening systems and institutions that enable durable progress and good governance.
Inclusive Growth
Promoting equity, empowerment, and participation especially for under-served groups.
Global Voice for Africa
Amplifying Africa’s perspective in regional and global forums, and shaping key agendas.
Award Details
The Trailblazer for Africa Award will be presented during a special lunch ceremony.
Date: Wednesday, October 14, 2026
Time: Lunch Ceremony 12:35 PM – 13:35 PM (Bangkok Time)
Venue: Rembrandt Hotel | Bangkok, Thailand
Occasion: Africa @ World Bank/IMF Annual Meetings
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