IRMSA Annual Awards

Recognising Excellence. Celebrating Impact. Advancing Risk Leadership - Nominations are now open for the IRMSA Awards 2026! 

The IRMSA Awards celebrate excellence, leadership and innovation in risk management across Africa and the global risk community, recognising individuals, organisations and committees that are shaping the future of the profession through exceptional contribution, measurable impact and a commitment to advancing risk management as a strategic discipline.

Through these awards, IRMSA invites nominations that reflect outstanding leadership and innovation, from emerging professionals and seasoned leaders to specialists, high‑performing IRMSA committees and global risk leaders whose work delivers meaningful international impact, ensuring that those elevating the profession are recognised and celebrated on a local, continental and global stage. 

Awards Categories

IRMSA continues to honour its established and respected award categories, which reflect the depth and diversity of the risk profession: 

Industry-Specific Award – recognising organisations or initiatives that set benchmarks for risk management excellence within their industry.

Africa Risk Management Award – celebrating individuals who have significantly advanced risk management practice across the African continent.

Up and Coming Risk Leader of the Year – acknowledging emerging professionals who demonstrate leadership potential and meaningful contribution early in their careers.

Risk Specialist of the Year – honouring deep technical expertise and innovation within a specialised area of risk management.

Risk Leader of the Year – recognising exceptional vision, influence and strategic leadership within the organisation and the profession.

Committee Award – added this year, the award recognises an IRMSA committee that has demonstrated outstanding performance in advancing the Institute’s strategic objectives. This award celebrates excellence in governance, leadership, collaboration and delivery of initiatives that enhance member value and strengthen the profession. 

This year IRMSA is proud to introduce the Global Risk and Impact Award - a premier addition to the IRMSA Awards, reflecting the profession’s increasingly interconnected and global nature.

This award recognises an individual who has demonstrated exceptional leadership in managing risk to create measurable positive impact beyond their home country. It celebrates strategic foresight, innovation and influence at a global level, acknowledging contributions that advance risk management practices across borders, sectors and economies. Aligned with IRMSA’s international partnerships and its relationship with the International Federation of Risk and Insurance Management Associations (IFRIMA), this award highlights the global reach of African risk leadership and the role of risk professionals in addressing shared global challenges. Recipients of this award exemplify thought leadership, collaboration and impact that resonate internationally, reinforcing IRMSA’s position within the global risk management community. 

Click on the links below for more information and to submit your nominations