By Foday Moriba Conteh

Annapurna Nageshrao Nagam, Managing Director of VLN Solutions Private Limited and Salone Bly, has received the Women in Excellence Award 2026 in recognition of her outstanding professionalism, managerial excellence and entrepreneurial leadership.

The award was presented on Sunday, March 8, 2026, during a ceremony held at the Bintumani Hotel in Freetown, as part of activities marking International Women’s Day. The event recognized women who have made significant contributions to national development.

Annapurna Nageshrao Nagam was honoured by the West African Women's Network for her exemplary leadership and achievements in business and technology. The award was presented by Sierra Leonean politician, Sylvia Olayinka Blyden.

According to the organizers, the award recognizes Annapurna Nageshrao Nagam’s “laudable display of professionalism, managerial excellence and exceptional entrepreneurial skills” demonstrated through her leadership in building and managing innovative enterprises.

Through her companies, VLN Solutions Private Limited and Salone Bly, Annapurna Nageshrao Nagam has been providing technology-driven business solutions across multiple sectors in Sierra Leone and India.

The firms, with operations in Freetown and Hyderabad, offer specialized services to banks, microfinance institutions, transportation and fuel companies, mobile network operators, schools, hospitals and other organizations. Their services include human resource management systems, inventory solutions, e-commerce platforms, fintech technologies and support for national digital payment and switch systems.

Under her leadership, the companies continue to promote innovation, digital transformation and sustainable business growth while supporting institutional efficiency through technology.

Annapurna Nageshrao Nagam’s achievements, according to the organizers, reflect determination, resilience and visionary leadership in the technology and business sectors. Her recognition is also seen as an inspiration to young women and girls pursuing careers in entrepreneurship, leadership and professional development.

Speaking after receiving the award, Annapurna Nageshrao Nagam said she was deeply honoured and grateful for the recognition, describing it as a humbling moment in her professional journey.

“I am deeply honored and sincerely grateful to receive the Women in Excellence Award 2026 from the West African Women's Network. This recognition is truly humbling and I extend my heartfelt appreciation to the organizers for acknowledging my work in professionalism, managerial leadership and entrepreneurship,” she said.

Annapurna Nageshrao Nagam noted that receiving the award during the celebration of International Women’s Day made the recognition even more meaningful, as it highlights the strength, resilience and achievements of women contributing to the growth and development of society.

She dedicated the award to the teams of VLN Solutions Private Limited and Salone Bly, acknowledging their dedication, hard work and shared vision in building the companies and delivering innovative technology and business solutions across multiple sectors.

According to her, the recognition is not only a personal milestone but also a reflection of the collective commitment and passion of the teams that continue to support the mission of the organizations.

Annapurna Nageshrao Nagam further reaffirmed her commitment to promoting innovation, digital transformation and sustainable business growth in Sierra Leone and beyond.

She expressed hope that the recognition would inspire more women and young girls to believe in their abilities, pursue leadership opportunities and contribute meaningfully to their communities.

Annapurna Nageshrao Nagam concluded by thanking the West African Women's Network and all those who have supported and encouraged her throughout her professional journey.

The Women in Excellence Awards celebrate women whose contributions are shaping business, governance and social development across West Africa. Annapurna Nageshrao Nagam’s recognition highlights her growing impact within the regional technology and business landscape. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/annapurna-nageshrao-nagam-receives-women-in-excellence-award-2026/