Nominations: 6/4 – 6/28
Voting: 7/13 – 7/26
San Diego Magazine’s Annual Celebrating Women Awards are back to honor one Pioneer and one Rising Star in 15 categories that represent the diverse span of industries that make up our beautiful city. Nominate the San Diego women you feel are paving the way, inspiring others, or just all around doing great things for our community. For further details on the categories and nominating, please see below.
A panel of San Diego Magazine judges will review all nominations. Nominations that adhere to the nomination form rules + criteria will move on to the next stage and be featured on our website for people’s choice voting, where the public will decide who will be awarded the Pioneer and Rising Star in each of the 15 categories. San Diego Magazine will additionally name one Pioneer of the Year and One Rising Star of the Year that we (the folks at the magazine) feel particularly shined.
San Diego Magazine will announce and honor both the people’s choice winners in each category and the overall Pioneer and Rising Star of the Year at the annual Celebrating Women Summit on November 4, 2026 at The Fairmont Grand Del Mar. To purchase tickets to the Summit, click here.
Pioneer vs. Rising Star
Pioneer
An individual that has and continues to carve a path to a brighter future. This is someone who is regarded as an expert in their industry and may be seen as a mentor.
Rising Star
An individual that is regarded as an up-and-comer in their industry. Someone who is actively trailblazing their way to a brighter future and setting the stage for those to follow.
Finding the Perfect Category
Art + Design
Artist, Architect, Fashion Designer, Interior Designer, Graphic Designer, Photographer, Videographer, Florist, Hair Stylist, Makeup Artist, etc.
Education
Teacher, Principal, School Board Member, Professor, Program Director, Counselor, Librarian, Superintendent, Tutor, Academic Development, etc.
Finance
Accountant, Financial Advisor, Banker, Lender/Loan Officer, Actuary, Analyst, Auditor, Insurance Provider, Tax Examiner/Collector, etc.
Fitness + Wellness
Personal Trainer, Gym Associate, Nutritionist/Dietician, Life Coach, Natural Healing, Class Instructor, Employee Health Services, Mental Wellness, Physical Wellness, etc.
Food + Beverage
Waiter/Waitress, Chef, Sous-Chef, Busser, Bartender, Barista, Mixologist, Sommelier, Beverage Director, Restaurant/Bar/Business Owner, Baker, Brewer, Winemaker, Distiller, Distributor, Importer, Agriculture, etc.
Healthcare
Doctor, Therapist/Psychiatrist, Dentist, Orthodontist, Surgeon, Nurse, Hospital Personnel, Field Assistant/Technician, Pharmacist/Pharmaceuticals, Doula/Midwife, etc.
Law + Legal
Lawyer, Attorney, Paralegal, Judge, Hearing Officer, Arbitration/Mediation, Court Reporter/Captioner, Firm Associate, Criminal Justice, etc.
Media + Marketing
Broadcasting, Journalism, Public Relations, Advertising, Marketing, Multimedia, Influencers, Social Media, Photography, Videography, etc.
Military + Public Service
Military Personnel, Veteran, Emergency Services, Social Worker, Law Enforcement, Firefighter, Public Health, Government/Private Sector, etc.
Non-Profit
Volunteer, Grant Writer, Administrator, Chief Officer, Director, Manager, Priest/Pastor, etc.
Real Estate
Realtor/Real Estate Agent, Loan Officer, Appraiser, Property Manager/Company, Broker, Consultant, Escrow Office, Home Inspector, Leasing Agent, Compliance Officer, etc.
Sports + Entertainment
Athlete, Musician, Producer, Director, Composer, Actor/Actress, Talent Director, Dancer/Choreographer, Singer, Couches/Scouts, Referee, etc.
STEM
Engineer, Scientist, Researcher/Developer, Analyst, Mathematician, Geologist, Astronomer, Astronaut, Chemist, Computer Programmer, Technician, etc.
Tourism + Hospitality
Hotel/Lodging, Travel Agent, Booking Agent, Tour Guide, Concierge, Transportation, Flight Attendant, Housekeeper, Recreation Worker, etc.
Trade + Craft
Specialty Services, Construction, Electrician, Plumber, Auto, Landscaper, Carpenter, Painter, Mechanic, etc.
We look forward to receiving your nomination(s) and wish your nominee(s) the best of luck!
