23 September 2026
International Women’s Association Esperanza receives the 2026 Gender Equality Award
The International Women’s Association Esperanza has been named the winner of the 2026 Norrbotten Gender Equality Award. The award of SEK 100,000 recognises the association’s long-term work to strengthen women’s participation, independence and influence in society.
The association provides safe spaces for people to meet, builds a sense of community and offers support in everyday life. According to the jury, its work has made a tangible difference to many people and strengthened women’s opportunities for financial independence and greater awareness of their rights.
- This means so much to us. We accept this award on behalf of those who established and founded Esperanza, says Tabita Urrutia, Chair of the association, as she receives the award.
The jury’s statement
Through sustained and purposeful work, this year’s recipient has helped strengthen people’s opportunities to participate in society, live independently and have a voice. The jury has recognised how the recipient puts gender equality into practice and contributes to achieving several of Sweden’s gender equality policy objectives.
By providing safe spaces for people to meet, building a sense of community and offering support in everyday life, the organisation has made a tangible difference to many people over a long period of time. Its work has benefited both individuals and society as a whole by strengthening women’s opportunities for financial independence and increasing their awareness of their rights.
The organisation’s work is characterised by a long-term approach, accessibility and a strong commitment to enabling more people to benefit from the opportunities society has to offer. By working closely with its target group and responding to individual needs, the organisation has become an important pathway to greater inclusion, participation and self-determination.
Other nominees
Kiruna SK, Alf Sundström (Cartest), Kvinnojouren Boden, Bodens BK FF och Kvinnojouren Boden, Räddningstjänsten Luleå, Rickard Wikström (Ica Hjärtat Kalix), Carina Henriksson (Glesbygdsdivan, Opera Vildmark), Miss Knapsu, Words by Huhta, Kalix familjecentral, XLENT, Victoria Lundqvist och Eva Nordmark (Strömbackaskolan Piteå), Anna Jonsson (Luleå Basket), IBF Argentum 91, Piteå Science Park (Go Business), Tränings- och akutboende inom Luleå kommuns socialförvaltning, NCC, Malin Malmström (Luleå tekniska universitet), Framgångskvinnor
The Norrbotten Gender Equality Award is presented by Samverkan för jämställdhet, a partnership between Luleå University of Technology, the County Administrative Board of Norrbotten, Norrbotten Association of Local Municipalities and Region Norrbotten.
Published:
Updated: