ERDA Excellence Award for Women Empowerment recognizes both individual and institutional members of ERDA who have shown outstanding dedication, innovation, and impact in advancing the empowerment and equality of women and girls.

1. For Individual Members: This category acknowledges Lifetime Members, Associate Members, and Fellow Members of ERDA who have demonstrated extraordinary leadership, advocacy, and commitment to promoting gender equality and empowering women and girls in their communities and beyond. These visionary leaders break barriers, challenge stereotypes, and advocate for women’s rights, opportunities, and participation in all spheres of society. Through their actions, mentorship, and empowerment initiatives, they inspire women and girls to realize their full potential, pursue their dreams, and make meaningful contributions to their communities and the world. The award will be given separately for exemplary work in the following areas, which symbolize women’s empowerment in society:

• • • Education
    • Entrepreneurship
    • Health and Wellness
    • Social Advocacy and Activism
    • Leadership and Governance

             Number of Awards: 05 (one award under each category)

2. For Institutional Members: The Women Empowerment Excellence Award also honors Institutional Members of ERDA that have shown a strong commitment to promoting gender equality, diversity, and inclusion within their organizations and the broader community. These institutions implement policies, programs, and initiatives that support the advancement and empowerment of women and girls, creating inclusive environments where everyone can thrive. They prioritize gender-responsive approaches to leadership, governance, and decision-making, actively promoting women’s leadership and representation at all levels.

            Number of Awards: 6 (3 for academic institutions and 3 for non-academic organizations)

• Selection Process: There are following steps to identify the eligible members for ERDA Excellence Award for Women Empowerment
  • • Application Submission: Individual members must apply for the award through ERDA website. Applicants are required to upload a brief description (maximum 500 words) about his/her initiatives for the women empowerment which can justify his/her eligibility for this award. They may also choose to upload their CV (it is not compulsory, but preferable). Institutional members are required to submit only a detailed description (maximum of 1,000 words) outlining their initiatives for women empowerment within their organization to justify their candidacy for the award.
    • Digital Presence: Candidates are required to provide links to their profiles on social media and professional platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook, etc. This information may be helpful for the selection committee during evaluation.
    • Evaluation Process: The evaluation process consists of two rounds:
      • Round One: Applications will be reviewed and shortlisted based on the CV and brief description provided.
      • Round Two: Shortlisted applications will be forwarded to ERDA’s Non-executive Body. A committee within this body will conduct a detailed evaluation, including inquiries through various sources, to select the final award recipients. The decision of the Non-executive Body is final.
• Notification and Award Presentation: Once the selection is finalized, ERDA will notify the award recipients. The award includes a certificate and a trophy, which will be presented at an annual seminar, conference, or summit. Recipients who are unable to attend the event will receive an e-certificate.