What began as a Canadian initiative to recognize women in broadcasting has officially gone global.

Earlier this week, Radiodays Asia and Trailblazers Canada unveiled the inaugural winners of the Trailblazers Radiodays Asia Awards in Jakarta, marking the Canadian organization’s first international expansion. Originally founded in 2005 as Radio Trailblazers, the volunteer organization advocates for and supports the advancement of women in broadcasting, podcasting and digital media. 

The organization’s expansion was set in motion in May during Radiodays North America in Toronto, when Trailblazers Canada was approached to adapt its advocacy model. The organization shared its framework with Radiodays Asia earlier in the summer, working virtually across continents to guide nomination structures and award criteria.

The inaugural event in Asia saw four women honoured across the region:

• The Trailblazer (Top Honor): Archana Kapoor (India), Founder of Radio Mewat and the Community Media Association for the Global South, recognized for using community-led radio to drive social transformation.

• Trailblazer Next Gen: Abigail Limuria (Indonesia), Founder of What Is Up, Indonesia?, honoured for innovating storytelling for younger audiences.

• Trailblazer Next Gen: Cania Citta (Indonesia), Co-Founder of Malaka, recognized for advancing digital journalism.

• Trailblazer Industry Choice: Andrea Ho (Australia), Discipline Lead at the Australian Film Television and Radio School (AFTRS), celebrated for her leadership in audio education.

 “The winners represent the creativity, courage, and commitment that the Trailblazers initiative exists to recognize,” said Nancy Brown Dacko, Chair of Trailblazers Canada. “Their work reminds us that the future of audio is being shaped by people willing to think differently and make a difference.”

The Trailblazers Canada framework is expected to remain a permanent fixture at future Radiodays Asia events.