The Global Mama of the Year is one of our most cherished traditions. A prestigious annual award first introduced in 2005, it recognizes and honors the Mamas (and Papas) who exemplify excellence, hard work, and creativity, as well as the community members who have gone above and beyond for the entire Global Mamas family. The event included dancing, a fun game of musical chairs, an eating competition, and a bottle flip challenge. The shared fun reminded us that Global Mamas isn’t just a workplace; it’s a community. 

As awards were announced, each awardee was enthusiastically celebrated by their peers. Nine individuals and groups were recognized for embodying the values that make Global Mamas exceptional. Meet, Jennifer, Global Mama of the Year 2026. A skilled batik artist who has mastered the entire batiking process, from cutting stamps and stamping to dying and dewaxing, Jennifer is both a craftsperson and a a leader, guiding her team to minimize rejects and maintain excellence across complex designs like the Mod Circles batik print in black. It is featured in two of our most popular pieces, including the Tema Dress and Cabana Blouse.

The Most Collaborative Department award went to the Bead Assembly team at the Fair Trade Zone (FTZ). They came together to learn entirely new product lines: leopard, rabbit, and lizard ornaments, while maintaining excellence across all existing bead products.

The Community Award was presented to the Dormeliam Hyacinth Harvesters, whose consistent supply of quality hyacinths throughout the year ensured the stable production of woven hyacinth products such as our beautiful Trivets, Placemats and Coasters. They are an essential contribution to the organization’s mission. 

Linda was honored for Unity. A Global Mamas team member for eight years, Linda has grown from assembler to Quality Control Champion. She has become the connective tissue of her team at the FTZ by always checking on her fellow Mamas, building relationships, and being the kind of presence that people notice when she’s gone. 

Kate received the Good Character award for her unfailing willingness to take on any task without complaint, including going above and beyond with morning cleaning responsibilities. Many say that Kate makes every space she occupies a little better. 

Seamstress Grace was recognized for Growth. A producer since 2007, Grace has continued to expand her skills across a wide range of products including cabana shorts, reversible aprons, jumpsuits, and more, all while maintaining the highest quality and never missing a due date. 

Catherine earned the Honesty award. A seamstress of four years, Catherine’s integrity is evident in how she works: always flagging issues before cutting, always owning her mistakes, and always showing up as a trustworthy member of her team. 

Theresa was honored for Respect. With over ten years at Global Mamas, Theresa brings both experience and humility to everything she does. She communicates proactively, sews with the highest quality, and demonstrates grace and accountability in how she treats others. 

Finally, Esther was named the Employee of the Year, a recognition well earned by someone known for her tireless work before, during, and after shipment, her deep knowledge of product specifications, and the respect and honesty she brings to every relationship at work.

Congratulations to all the winners. It’s been a wonderful year celebrating these amazing accomplishments and we are looking forward to next year.