Influential Women Awardees grateful for space where achievements are recognised

Awardees at this year’s Sixth Annual 25 Influential Women Leaders Award (25IWLA) have noted how grateful they are for a space where women’s achievements can be recognised and celebrated.
The twenty-five exceptional women leaders from across Guyana’s public, private, and non-profit sectors were honoured at the Sixth Annual 25IWLA Ceremony, held on Saturday, at the Guyana Marriott Hotel in Georgetown. During the ceremony, a minute of silence was held in memory of women and girls whose lives were tragically cut short by violence, illness, or systemic oppression.
“This award is both a recognition and a responsibility,” said Abbigale Loncke-Watson, a trailblazing entrepreneur and founder of multiple businesses, including MBW Inc and Community Health Care.
“This recognition holds profound meaning, not only as a professional milestone but also as a celebration of values such as leadership, resilience, and service. I extend heartfelt thanks to Michelle A. Nicholas and Lyndell Danzie-Black, the visionary co-founders of this distinguished award, for creating a platform that uplifts and amplifies the voices of women who are making transformative contributions across sectors.”
Though she was unable to attend the event in person on Saturday, her mother received the award on her behalf, which, Loncke-Watson said, was a proud moment for her mom.
Echoing that appreciation, Martina McDonald-Johnson, founder and managing director of Integrated Marketing Communications Inc, described the recognition as “a testament to the power of purpose-driven work.” She added, “To be recognised for the time and resources invested in helping to develop others, fuels my commitment to continue amplifying under-represented voices—especially women and girls—and creating opportunities for growth and lasting change. It feels like it’s my life’s purpose. I’m grateful to those who supported me in doing what I do, and for those who created this space to recognise that work.”
For Jasmaine Payne, a communications specialist and writer, the award was a reflective and transformative moment.
“It took a while for me to get accustomed to the fact that I was selected,” she admitted. “In my field, I’m usually the one covering the stories or planning the events. But it certainly feels good to know that your work is seen and valued. It’s humbling and encouraging—it challenges me to continue doing good work and to support other women on a similar path.”
This year the event was celebrated under the theme, “Women’s Rights. Strongest Alliance. Most Influential Women.”
For Sophia Dolphin, the award was deeply personal. A survivor of domestic violence and a single mother, she spoke candidly about the challenges she has faced, and how they have shaped her mission.
“This award symbolizes more than just recognition—it’s a symbol of resilience, dedication, and unwavering spirit. This award is a testament to the power of perseverance and the impact of using one’s voice to advocate for change. I am deeply thankful to God for guiding me, and to the stakeholders who recognized my passion and efforts. This recognition motivates me to continue serving others and to amplify the message that single mothers can thrive, lead, and inspire.”
Also honoured was the Managing Director of Veena’s Linen and Hotel Supplies, who expressed heartfelt thanks for the support she’s received throughout her journey.
“This recognition is truly humbling and deeply meaningful. I extend my sincere gratitude to the esteemed individuals who selected me. This achievement is a testament of your faith in me. Here’s to continuing to lift each other up, championing one another’s successes, and collectively making a significant and lasting difference in the lives of women and girls,” she expressed.
The 2025 honourees were lauded for being remarkable women who lead not from a position of authority but from a place of authentic service.
This year’s distinguished list also includes Avia Maria Lindie; Ayodele Roache; Dr. Carla Cassiano; Colleen Prince; Devica Kamini Uditram; Francina Lanferman-Duncan; Hebron Edwards; Mahadevi Doobay-Girdhary; Melissa Dow-Richardson; Mendy Angele Nicholson; Naudya Hoosein; Nazima Raghubir; Reisa Roberts; Dr. Sadhana Samtani-Sultan; Safina Lutchman; Savina Sukhnandan; Tamana Safraj; Tessa Fernandes; Vanessa Williams, and Vidya Ketwaroo.
Co-founded by Michelle Nicholas and Lyndell Danzie-Black, the 25IWLA has recognised 150 women since its inception in 2019. The awardees’ work spans borders and sectors, including leaders who are influencing national policy, mentoring the next generation, breaking down barriers and driving transformative change throughout Guyana and beyond.
This year’s celebration was made possible through the generous support of sponsors and partners, including ExxonMobil Guyana; Inter-American Development Bank; SBM Offshore Guyana; AGM Inc.; Gulf Valve, Piping & Control Inc.; FullWorks Industrial Park; M&T Bank; Banks DIH Ltd.; Republic Bank Ltd.; Technip FMC; Massy Stores Guyana Inc.; Sexual Assault and Family Education (SAFEGuyana) Inc.; Kofi Sansculotte; Joseph D. Roberto; SLB; One Communications; Tropical Construction Solutions, and Morgan’s Learning Center. Additional support was provided by PAS Cargo Inc., Jai Signs, among others.