
Phenomenal Woman Categories &
2026 Nominees
The Phenomenal Woman Empowerment Awards honor women from all walks of life, education level and whose lives, leadership, service, resilience, and vision have made a powerful impact in their communities, organizations, families, and beyond.
EducateHer​
Kamajjae patterson
Jessica Malacara
Julie Kamphaus
Sarah Aguila


EntrepreneuHer
HealHer
Alexia Gates
Dr. Kimberly Payne
Crystal McCollum
Bryanna Smith
Lakesha Davis
Shakeeus Graves graves
Dr. Stacia Slaughter Thompson
Latasha Wallace
Rachel Cortez
Rochee Olive
LaVetta Arrington
Dominique Pritchett


ThriveHer
MinistHer
Yolanda James
Candice Helaire
Loretta Springer
Iyana Garza
Lakesha Davis
LaQuita Evans

TrailblazeHer

LeadHer
Anna Clementi
Nola Starling-Ratliff
Candace Sanchez
Esmeralda Barajas
X'Zandria Weil
Kim McCoy-Walker
Jessica Safransky Schacht
Lakesha Davis
Dr. Domonique Cobb

SupportHer
Holly Hess
Marybeth Zuhlke
Kim McCoy-Wakker
Dezarrea Kindle

DirectHer
Erika Farr

AdvocateHer
Lakesha Davis
Samantha Collier

RiseHer
Autumn Kyle
Rebeka Ruehle
2026 Phenomenal Woman Nominees
The Phenomenal Woman Empowerment Awards honor women from all walks of life, education level and whose lives, leadership, service, resilience, and vision have made a powerful impact in their communities, organizations, families, and beyond.

EducateHer​
Honors an educator, administrator, or education advocate who is shaping minds and futures.


EntrepreneuHer
HealHer
Honors a woman who has stepped out on faith, vision, and grit to build her own business.
Honors a woman who brings healing in all its forms. She may work in healthcare, mental health, behavioral health, social work, counseling, or human services.

LeadHer
Honors a woman who leads boldly and authentically—whether formally or informally


ThriveHer
MinistHer
Honors a woman who serves faithfully in ministry—pastor, pastor’s wife, minister, missionary, evangelist, chaplain, worshipper, or lay leader.
Honors a woman whose story is one of resilience and transformation.

TrailblazeHer
Honors a woman who breaks barriers and challenges the status quo.

SupportHer
Honors the heart of service. She may not seek the spotlight, but her impact is undeniable.

DirectHer
Erika Farr

AdvocateHer
Lakesha Davis
Samantha Collier

RiseHer
Honors a woman (ages 16-24) who is early in her leadership or professional journey but already making a strong impact.