Industry News

Nominations Now Open for PCPC’s Madam C.J. Walker Award for Excellence

Submissions for the 2026 award nominations are due by Jan. 12, 2026.

The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC) announced that nominations are now open for the Madam C.J. Walker Award for Excellence.

The national award recognizes “bold changemakers in the beauty and personal care products industry whose entrepreneurial spirit and community leadership ignite change,” said the industry organization.

Inspired by the activist and entrepreneur, PCPC created the award in 2021 to celebrate individuals of all backgrounds who embody Madam Walker’s legacy of entrepreneurship and vision of economic opportunity for all.

“Beauty and personal care entrepreneurs and other industry professionals have a long history of inspiring confidence and improving lives in the communities in which they work and live,” said Anitra Marsh, chair of PCPC’s Impact and Inclusivity Committee and vice president and chief communications officer at Procter & Gamble Beauty. “This award recognizes those in our industry who create, innovate, and uplift the communities around them.”

Nominees are evaluated on areas of achievement, including:

  • Demonstrating an outstanding commitment to entrepreneurship and inclusivity by advancing positive change;
  • Exhibiting strong leadership; and
  • Sustained engagement with consumers and communities.

“Across the beauty industry, countless individuals like Madam Walker are driving innovation, strengthening our communities and making a lasting difference,” said Tom Myers, president and CEO of PCPC. “The work they do, whether building businesses or mentoring the next generation, reminds us that beauty is a force for empowerment, connection and impact. We’re proud to present this award and recognize their unwavering commitment to progress.”

Award recipients receive a complimentary stay at the Ritz-Carlton in Key Biscayne, FL, during  PCPC’s 2026 Beauty Collective Summit, which is attended by leaders and experts from the industry’s top beauty brands. Madam Walker’s great-great-granddaughter, A’Lelia Bundles, will present the award.

Submissions for the 2026 award nominations are due by Jan. 12, 2026. To learn more or submit a nomination for the Madam C.J. Walker Award for Excellence, visit www.personalcarecouncil.org/resources/madam-c-j-walker-award-for-excellence/.

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