Introducing the finalists of the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Individual Award 2026!

IPMA is honoured to present the finalists of the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Individual Award 2026, recognizing professionals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership in fostering inclusive, equitable and diverse project environments.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I) represent essential values in modern project management, enabling professionals to build more collaborative, innovative, and inclusive environments where diverse perspectives are recognized and valued. DE&I encompasses a broad range of individual characteristics and perspectives – including gender, age, ethnicity, cultural background, disability, education, experience, beliefs, and ways of thinking, while ensuring equal opportunities, fair treatment, and a genuine sense of belonging for everyone involved in projects. Project and program managers have a key role in promoting inclusive leadership, ensuring equal opportunities, and creating project cultures where every individual can contribute and achieve their full potential.

This prestigious award recognizes individuals who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion throughout their project leadership journey. The finalists have successfully integrated DE&I principles into their leadership approaches, team development, stakeholder engagement, decision-making processes, and project delivery practices. Through their actions, they have shown how inclusive project management can strengthen collaboration, encourage innovation, and create meaningful value for organisations and society.

The evaluation was based on recognized Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion principles and practices within project management, highlighting individuals who actively promote fairness, belonging, and respect while shaping more inclusive project environments.

We warmly congratulate the finalists and celebrate their inspiring leadership in advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion within the project management profession. This recognition goes beyond an award – it is an opportunity to acknowledge professionals who are shaping the future of project management by demonstrating that inclusive leadership and diverse perspectives are fundamental to creating successful, impactful, and sustainable projects.

The finalists of the IPMA Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Individual Award 2026 are:

• Sara Perić (Serbia), with a project 10th IPMA SENET Conference, Serbian Project Management Association – IPMA Serbia

We extend our sincere congratulations to this year’s finalists and commend their outstanding contributions to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in project management. Their leadership, dedication, and commitment to creating inclusive environments serve as an inspiration for the profession and set a benchmark for future generations of project leaders.

The final rankings will be announced during the IPMA Global Awards Gala Ceremony on 18 September 2026 in Hiroshima, Japan. This year’s Awards Gala will be a special occasion, marking the closing of the 35th IPMA World Congress.

We warmly invite you to join us for this special occasion and honour the achievements of the world’s most exceptional project professionals.

Tickets for the Gala are available here: IPMA World Congress 2026 Tickets – Secure your participation now!