New York, NY, 13 September 2021 | Women Deliver, a global advocate for gender equality, on behalf of the Women Deliver 2019 Conference in Vancouver is thrilled to be recognized as a 2021 Incredible Impacts Award winner, a joint initiative by the International Congress and Convention Associate (ICCA) and Best Cities Global Alliance, an international network of convention destinations.

The Incredible Impacts Program shines a global spotlight on the innovative thinking and creativity in the meetings industry, demonstrating the “beyond tourism” impact and the lasting legacy we can leave behind us.  This year’s award recognized challenges faced by the industry as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic by welcoming applications from associations that have successfully delivered legacy programs.

“It’s not just about rewarding associations who are showcasing examples of excellence, but also to inspire others to incorporate their own legacy initiatives into future events. Every year we are inspired by the legacy-making, often life-changing work showcased through our program,” said Lesley Williams, Managing Director of Best Cities.

The Women Deliver 2019 Conference in Vancouver was the largest and most impactful conference on gender equality to date. Over 8,000 people from 169 countries and 200,000 online participants convened to inspire political commitments, unveil new research, share solutions, and shine a global spotlight on the importance of gender equality.

A group of independent judges selected three meetings that have delivered a proven impact as winners, each receiving a grant to further their important work.

“We are honored to be awarded this recognition, and look forward to putting it towards our commitment to make the Women Deliver 2023 Conference the most inclusive, accessible, diverse, and consultative Women Deliver Conference yet. We hope Women Deliver Conferences continue to galvanize advocates to take action and harness new knowledge, skills, and connections to advance gender equality and build a more just world.” said Kathleen Sherwin, Interim President & CEO, Women Deliver.

Women Deliver congratulates fellow awardees, the European AIDS Clinical Society and the Garden of Hope Foundation, for their important contributions.

Watch Women Deliver win the ICCA/Best Cities Incredible Impacts Award at the 2021 ICCA Congress digital launch here and read the official announcement here.