New York, USA— Her Excellency Dr. Filomena Mendes Gonçalves, Minister of Health of Cabo Verde, has been honoured with the Global Female Impact Leadership (GFIL) Award at the Global Power Women Yearbook (GPWY) 2024 conference, held at Graduate Centre, City University of New York (CUNY). A renowned advocate for political leadership and human rights, Dr. Gonçalves was recognised for her transformative leadership in public health and her dedication to promoting human dignity and gender equality.

The long anticipated event took place on the 25th September 2024 at the Graduate Centre, City University of New York (CUNY), centered around the theme “Advancing the Transformative Power of Technology through Women’s Lens: Shaping the Future of Business and Governance.” The event, organised by the Centre for Economic and Leadership Development (CELD) and Amazons Watch Magazine (AWM), gathered prominent female leaders from across the globe to honor their achievements and explore the critical role of women in driving technological innovation and influencing the future of both business and governance.

With a distinguished law degree from the University of Coimbra, one of Portugal’s most prestigious institutions, Dr. Gonçalves built her career as an attorney specialising in family, municipal, commercial, and public works law. Her legal expertise has significantly influenced her approach to governance, always centring on the protection of human dignity and fundamental rights.

Her commitment to social justice and women’s rights fuelled her rise in politics. Dr. Gonçalves has held key roles, including Minister of the Presidency of the Council of Ministers and Parliamentary Affairs, where she led efforts to ensure gender equity and democracy.

Since becoming Minister of Health in 2022, Dr. Gonçalves has demonstrated visionary leadership during a time of significant health challenges in Cabo Verde. Under her leadership, Cabo Verde was officially certified malaria-free by the World Health Organisation (WHO)—a landmark achievement that highlights her ability to mobilise resources on both national and international levels to safeguard public health.

Beyond tackling communicable diseases, Dr. Gonçalves has been a champion of preventive healthcare. She spearheaded programs aimed at combating non-communicable diseases, such as cardiovascular conditions, by collaborating with WHO to enhance the training of healthcare professionals. Her efforts have strengthened Cabo Verde’s healthcare system, improving both treatment and prevention strategies.

A key focus of her tenure has been mental health, especially following the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2024, she declared the Year of Mental Health in Cabo Verde, launching initiatives to raise awareness and improve access to mental health services nationwide. Dr. Gonçalves has made mental health a national priority, advocating for an inclusive healthcare system that addresses both physical and psychological well-being.

Her leadership highlights a holistic approach to health, seamlessly integrating mental health into the broader healthcare agenda. Through public health campaigns and community outreach, Dr. Gonçalves continues to work toward improving the quality of life for all Cape Verdeans.

In addition to her public health work, Dr. Gonçalves has been a leading voice for gender equality and women’s empowerment, both in Cabo Verde and across the globe. As a leader within the Movement for Democracy (MpD) and President of the Association of Democratic Women, she has consistently advocated for women’s increased participation in politics and decision-making. Her efforts have led to stronger gender-balanced policies and more equal representation.

Regionally, she has been active in African politics, serving as a member of the Network of Women Parliamentarians of the ECOWAS Parliament and founding the Parliamentary Network to Combat Clandestine Migration. Through these roles, she has tackled social justice issues and championed the rights of migrants, cementing her status as a defender of human rights across Africa.

At the GPWY 2024, Dr. Gonçalves joined an esteemed group of global female leaders and honourees, including H.E. Robinah Nabbanja, Prime Minister of Uganda; First Ladies such as H.E. Rossana Maria Briceño of Belize, H.E. Leticia Ocampos of Paraguay, Dr. Isaura Nyusi of Mozambique, H.E Arya Devi Ali (Guyana),  and H.E. Dinisia Dos Reis Embaló of Guinea-Bissau. Other influential figures included Mansa Nettey, CEO of Standard Chartered Bank Ghana; Olive Birungi Lumonya, Deputy Director General of the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority; and Mary Ellen Iskenderian, President and CEO of Women’s World Banking, among many others. Together, they shared their experiences and vision for a more inclusive and equitable future.

Global Female Impact Leadership Award

The Global Female Impact Leadership (GFIL) Award recognises women who have demonstrated extraordinary leadership and a commitment to improving the lives of others. Dr. Gonçalves’ visionary leadership in public health and human rights made her a deserving recipient of this prestigious award. Her ability to manage complex health challenges while protecting her citizens’ fundamental rights speaks to her strength and dedication.

About the Global Power Women (GPW) Yearbook

The Global Power Women (GPW) Yearbook is an exclusive and timeless compilation of highly inspirational success stories, achievements, innovations, and impact generated by the world’s top Power Women. This extraordinary book transcends time, showcasing the remarkable tales of triumph, innovation, and influence woven by the world’s most influential women. It immerses readers in a powerful captivating narrative, illustrating the profound impact of women’s leadership resonating across diverse sectors and global landscapes. 

About the Centre for Economic and Leadership Development (CELD)

CELD is a global institution dedicated to empowering women and promoting leadership development. It advocates for gender equality and sustainable development, uplifting women leaders worldwide.

About Amazons Watch Magazine (AWM)

AWM is a leading platform celebrating women's achievements globally. Through inspirational stories, AWM champions gender equality and advocates for the empowerment of women across various sectors.

For more information on GPWY 2024:
Phone: +44 7471066570
Email: alo_ed@africanleadership.co.uk, info@celd.org.uk