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Celebrating Empowerment: The HAPPY WOMAN AWARD 2026

In a grand celebration of women's empowerment, the HAPPY WOMAN EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE, led by Chairman Koichi Ogawa, has announced the recipients of the HAPPY WOMAN AWARD 2026. This award, established in recognition of the UN's International Women's Day, commemorates its 10th anniversary this year. The HAPPY WOMAN AWARD has a proud history of honoring individuals and corporations that significantly contribute to the empowerment of women and the promotion of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

A New Era for the HAPPY WOMAN AWARD

In this milestone year, the award has taken a transformative step forward. Instead of focusing solely on direct contributions to social causes and SDGs, the criteria now encompass the broader impact of individuals and companies on societal values, ways of living, and work ethics. This evolution aims to shed light on the importance of personal narratives and aspirations as models for future generations.

The Distinguished Individual Award Winners

HAPPY WOMAN Award – An Mika

Recognized for her multifaceted career as a model, actress, and singer, An Mika has continuously empowered women through her public speaking, books, and various media channels. Her message of self-acceptance and positive living has inspired countless women to embrace their choices, making her a worthy recipient of the HAPPY WOMAN Award.

LEGEND Award – Natsuko Toda

Honored for her unparalleled contributions to film culture as a leading subtitle translator, Natsuko Toda has enriched the film industry for many years, translating emotions and new perspectives through her work. Her substantial impact on cinema earns her the prestigious LEGEND Award.

WELL-BEING IMPACT Award – Reiko Shioda

Former top badminton athlete Reiko Shioda has turned her competitive spirit into a force for good through her ongoing contributions to sports promotion, youth development, and support for female athletes. Her unwavering dedication to empowering others has garnered her the WELL-BEING IMPACT Award.

NEXT GENERATION Award – Suzu Yamanouchi

As a talent and model, Suzu Yamanouchi channels her influence through social media, inspiring the youth of today to embrace their individuality and courage. Recognized for her positive impact on shaping the values of the next generation, Yamanouchi receives the NEXT GENERATION Award.

SOCIAL IMPACT Award – Megumi Ishimoto

As the representative director of the Women's Eye NPO, Megumi Ishimoto has played a critical role in addressing gender issues in local communities following the Great East Japan Earthquake. Her relentless efforts to empower women and foster local networks have earned her the SOCIAL IMPACT Award.

CHANGE MAKER Award – Mayuko Igarashi

Mayuko Igarashi's innovative approach to redefining Japanese snack culture has made significant strides in promoting female entrepreneurs. As a representative of an online snack bar network, her work captures the attention of the younger generation and raises awareness of Japan's nightlife culture, meriting the CHANGE MAKER Award.

Corporate Award Recipients

HAPPY WOMAN BRAND Award – Ajinomoto AGF

Recognized for its commitment to women's health and well-being, Ajinomoto AGF has developed products and lifestyle proposals that cater to women's needs, partnering with Tanita to enhance overall well-being.

SOCIAL IMPACT Award – SS Pharmaceuticals

With a focus on raising awareness about the invisible pains women face in their careers, SS Pharmaceuticals launched the BeliEVE PROJECT, promoting social issue visibility and collaborative initiatives, hence earning the SOCIAL IMPACT Award.

SOCIAL IMPACT Award – Irom Group

Through its support for pharmaceutical development and clinical trials, Irom Group has contributed to health advancements while fostering women’s careers in the medical field, ensuring they are also honored with the SOCIAL IMPACT Award.

WORKSTYLE INNOVATION Award – Panasonic

The Panasonic Living Appliances team has centered its innovation around women’s health by creating the "RizMo" service, merging DEI initiatives and workplace reforms to promote a healthier work environment, earning the WORKSTYLE INNOVATION Award.

PARTNERSHIP Award – Chocola BB Brand

Since winning the HAPPY WOMAN AWARD in 2020, the Chocola BB Brand has consistently supported women's health awareness through collaborative projects, achieving recognition with the PARTNERSHIP Award.

PARTNERSHIP Award – Marriott International

Marriott International’s engagement since 2018 in the HAPPY WOMAN FESTA through event collaborations has showcased their ongoing commitment to women's empowerment, rightfully receiving the PARTNERSHIP Award.

PIONEER Award – Hollywood Beauty Group

For over a century, Hollywood Beauty Group has supported women’s beauty, health, and social engagement, nurturing female talent, thus earning the PIONEER Award.

Looking Ahead: The Next 10 Years

As the HAPPY WOMAN AWARD transitions into its next phase, it not only recognizes achievements but also emphasizes the power of intentions and potential as critical factors in societal transformation. According to Chairman Koichi Ogawa, the award aims to showcase inspirational role models who embody hope and agency.

Event Details

Event: International Women's Day Awards | HAPPY WOMAN AWARD 2026
Date: March 5, 2026, 1:00 – 3:00 PM
Venue: TOKYO FM Hall, Chiyoda, Tokyo
Organizer: HAPPY WOMAN Executive Committee
Reservation: Pre-registration required (Reserve Here)

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