The criteria for the Award focus on the character of the individual, her ability and achievements and how her work impacts on the problems of South African society. The work of these women must be significant in terms of creating a better future for South Africans. It must show a desire to do something about the biggest challenges South African society faces as these difficulties all have the potential to put a damper on our future.
Strength and Determination
The nominee must have achieved her goals despite and against all odds and have the strength to overcome the greatest of obstacles, resolve problems and be determined to attain a positive outcome.
Adaptability and humanity
It must be a characteristic of the nominee to adapt fast and efficiently to changing circumstances while being steered by a value system that treasures the reality that a person is only a person through other people.
Vision and Modesty
The nominee must have a broader vision of the challenging society in which South Africans live. She must also show modesty and rather than boasting must prefer to be understated and not to be very vocal about achievement.
Leadership
Great leadership has changed the destiny of this country. A nominee in this Award must have the leadership ability to affect human behaviour to accomplish a mission and must be capable of influencing people to achieve set goals.
Integrity
The nominee must live according to values, beliefs and principles that shape the future for the better. A nominee for the Award must subscribe to actions of integrity.