Minnesota is not just a location. It is a statement. On June 6, 2026, the InterContinental Saint Paul Riverfront became the center of the Somali world a room filled with honorees, community leaders, families, and changemakers who deserved to be seen and celebrated.
80+ honorees recognized. 15+ award categories. A night that proved, once again, that when this community gathers, the room is never small enough.
Elevating the world-class achievements of Somali leaders, innovators, and institutions across five continents through annual international recognition.
Building a shared platform of national pride, cross-border connection, and collective celebration of our heritage, stories, and triumphs.
Spotlighting transformative role models to inspire, mentor, and pave clear pathways of leadership for the next generation of Somali youth.
The Global Somali Awards Gala Ceremony is where the community comes together to witness something rare; Somali excellence honored on a stage it has always deserved. Leaders, professionals, creatives, and community figures from across the diaspora, gathered in one room, for one night.
The 4th Annual ceremony will bring together 500+ guests from across five continents for an evening honoring 15+ award categories, a Lifetime Achievement recognition, the Global Somali Person of the Year, and special honors for leaders shaping the Somali community today. Nominations open January 2027. The stage is being prepared. The night will be unforgettable.
Technology & Innovation Award
Entrepreneurship Award
Executive Of The Year Award
Sportsperson Of The Year
Most Influential Author Award
Young Person Of The Year
Lifetime Achievement Award
Financial Institution Excellence Award
Community Contribution Excellence Award
Social Impact Excellence Award
Disability Inclusion Excellence Award
Health & Wellbeing Excellence Award
Higher Education Excellence Award
Media & Journalism Excellence Award
Arts & Culture Excellence Award
The GS Awards is a platform, a record, and a community - built to last well beyond a single evening.
Rigorous, merit-based vetting conducted by an independent global jury. We honor those driving measurable change across business, public service, arts, and innovation.
Every honoree becomes part of our permanent registry. Their achievements are documented, published, and preserved for future generations.
A premier platform hosting Heads of State, diplomats, and industry pioneers, placing our honorees on a stage of global significance.
Uniting leaders from across five continents in one room to foster high-impact cross-border collaborations and strategic partnerships.
Extending honoree impact through dedicated features in GS Magazine, digital video releases, and targeted global media distribution.
A dedicated platform built to define, articulate, and celebrate the global Somali experience strictly on our own terms.
The Global Somali Awards is the premier international platform recognizing Somali excellence across business, public service, arts, education, sports, and innovation. Established in 2022 by the Global Somali Coalition, the Awards are now in their third year; having honored over 80 leaders across five continents in Columbus, Ohio in 2024 and 2025, and Minnesota in 2026.
