Mukantabana was recognised in the “Exemplary Diplomat” category under the initiative, which highlights women whose leadership and contributions are making an impact across different fields and communities.

The recognition was announced on October 14 during an awards gala held at Cordell in Bethesda, Maryland, in the United States.

According to the organisers, the initiative seeks to increase the visibility of women leaders while creating opportunities for professional networking, collaboration and mentorship across industries and borders.

Mukantabana has served as Rwanda’s Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the United States since March 2013. She also represents Rwanda in Mexico, Brazil and Argentina as a non-resident ambassador.

Her diplomatic responsibilities include strengthening bilateral relations, promoting Rwanda’s culture and economy, advancing the country’s interests abroad and engaging Rwandans in the diaspora in national development.

Before entering diplomacy, Mukantabana worked in academia in the United States and Rwanda. She was a tenured professor of history in Sacramento, California, and lectured in social work at the National University of Rwanda.

She also co-founded Friends of Rwanda Association (F.O.R.A.), a US-based nonprofit relief organisation established following the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

Mukantabana has received several other honours, including the Peace and Justice Award from the Center for African Peace and Conflict Resolution and the Crystal Apple Award for Best Instructor at Cosumnes River College.