This is a call for nominations for inclusion in the book and video documentary, “African Women of Distinction" (working title) to be exhibited in Africa and the U.S. in December, 2006. The African Women of Distinction project profiles the stories and work of twenty women in Africa who embody the essence of leadership, determination and innovation in addressing social, economic and political issues at local, national, and international levels. This is the first of a series of books and videos planned for this project.

Profiled women for the 2006 "African Women of Distinction" project will come from across Africa and represent diverse social, economic and political backgrounds and come from all walks of life - mothers, government and business leaders, community activists, scientists, and grandmothers. African Women of Distinction will provide a reality-based and all-encompassing depiction of women in Africa, including their role as nurturers, as agents of peace and as “social rebels”.

Integrated within the African Women of Distinction project is an African Women of Distinction Leadership programme that unites and builds solidarity between women and facilitates mentorship with other women in Africa. To reaffirm the organiser's commitment to young women and their importance to the future of Africa, five young women between the ages of 18 and 30 will be honoured based on their potential for extraordinary leadership and service in Africa.

The person to be nominated should fulfil the following requirements:

• Be a positive role model and demonstrate leadership in their chosen field.
• Be someone whose achievements have made an impact at local, national or international levels.
• Be an individual who has been the first in initiating an activity that made living conditions better for others.
• Embody excellence and leadership in her field of endeavour.
• Be someone who has shown courage in public life and public service or is/has been involved in a great cause for the uplifting of humanity.

Fields of art, faith, education, technology, media, politics, health, music, will all be considered. Nominations should meet some of the above criteria and include:

• Background information on the nominee addressing the selection criteria
• Details of specific achievements (supporting materials may be attached)
• Name, mailing address, e-mail and phone number (if available) of nominator

There are no limitations to the nominated women's social, economic or political status, age, education, and/or literacy skills. Nominations are accepted in Portuguese, English, French, and Arabic. Selections will be made by an international panel in August 2006. All selected women will be notified by September 1 2006. For further information send an email to: nominationAWOD@gmail.com