Meet the 2026 Catalyst Award Winners

The Forum Foundation was proud to announce the recipients of the 2026 Catalyst Awards, recognizing four exceptional women leaders whose work is creating meaningful change across the Philadelphia region. The Catalyst Award honors emerging leaders who have not yet reached the pinnacle of their careers but are already making a significant impact in their communities and industries. Each year, one winner is selected from the public, private, nonprofit, and entrepreneurial sectors.

Public Sector: Tracie Johnson

As Philadelphia's first-ever Youth Ombudsperson, Tracie Johnson made history by building a brand-new office dedicated to oversight, accountability, and advocacy for the city's young people. A tireless champion at the intersection of government and community, she is recognized for her extraordinary commitment to the next generation.

Private Sector: Taina Estremera

As Founder and CEO of Serene Consulting, Taina Estremera is on a mission to transform hustle culture into wellness culture across the Philadelphia region. With more than 18 years of experience in behavioral health and crisis services, she is recognized for her unwavering commitment to building healthier, more sustainable ways of working and living.

Entrepreneurial Sector: Khaliah Moody

As Founder and CEO of Steady Strides Behavior Solutions, Khaliah Moody has dedicated her career to supporting children and families impacted by developmental disabilities. She is recognized for her steadfast commitment to expanding access to quality care and advancing inclusion and equity in her community.

Nonprofit Sector: Kamesha Callands

As Manager of External Affairs at Community College of Philadelphia, Kamesha Callands has built her career around expanding educational opportunities and deepening community engagement across the Philadelphia region. She is recognized for her tireless commitment to advocacy, mentorship, and leading with purpose at every level.

The 2026 Forum Foundation Catalyst Award is made possible by the support of Forum founder Judith M. von Seldeneck, a lifetime champion of women leaders.

Through the Catalyst Award program, winners participate in a year-long leadership development experience designed to accelerate their impact. The cohort receives Spark Membership with The Forum, access to a network of more than 650 women leaders, and participation in a leadership advancement program through Villanova University focused on honing the skills needed to ignite change.

The Catalyst Award is unique in recognizing women leaders on the rise while fostering the cross-sector connections needed to drive transformational change. We look forward to supporting Tracie, Taina, Khaliah, and Kamesha as they continue to lead, inspire, and strengthen our region.