DAR ES SALAAM, TANZANIA — September 25, 2026 — Dar es Salaam came alive on Saturday, September 19, as the prestigious Hyatt Regency Hotel hosted the highly anticipated Iconic Africa Women Achievers Awards & Summit 2026.
Convened by Iconic International Holdings (Pty) Limited, the landmark gathering brought together accomplished women, continental pioneers, business leaders, entrepreneurs, professionals and influential personalities to celebrate excellence while engaging in conversations about Africa's sustainable development.
The event provided a major platform for recognising women whose work continues to make an impact across business, leadership, social development, media, entertainment, technology, tourism and other sectors.
The summit was held under the powerful theme, “The Africa We Want: Women Inclusiveness in Rapid Sustainable Development.”
The theme formed the foundation for keynote addresses, panel discussions and strategic conversations examining the importance of women's participation in Africa's economic, political, corporate and social development.
Thought leaders deliberated on actionable strategies to strengthen female participation across different spheres of African society, while discussions also highlighted collaboration and traditional leadership as important components of the continent's development agenda.
The event was equally marked by a rich display of African heritage and corporate elegance.
Amb. Dr. Temisan O. Louis, Founder and President of Iconic International Holdings (Pty) Limited, attended the occasion in traditional native attire complete with a red cap and royal beads, reflecting the cultural identity associated with the Iconic Africa brand.
He was joined by prominent dignitaries, awardees, partners and guests who came together to celebrate achievements and discuss Africa's future.
The daytime summit transitioned into a glamorous evening gala dedicated to honouring exceptional women whose work is contributing to positive change across the continent.
A major highlight was the recognition of Valentina Utoh, Founder and CEO of Onyx by Valentina, who was officially honoured as “Iconic African Woman of the Year in Business Leadership / Social Impact 2026.”
The award was presented by the Mayorkings Charity Foundation in recognition of her dedication, excellence and contributions towards the advancement of the African continent.
The gala also recognised distinguished personalities working across business, media, fashion, tourism, healthcare, entertainment, entrepreneurship, philanthropy, professional services and social development.
The gathering combined recognition, leadership dialogue, networking, cultural expression and a forward-looking conversation about the role of women in Africa's sustainable development.
As delegates departed Dar es Salaam, the event left behind a shared vision of a more inclusive and rapidly developing Africa.
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