05/08/2026
We’re thrilled to announce this year’s Accomplice Award will be presented to Dilnaz Waraich! Our GirlForward Accomplice Award is presented to an adult for their unending commitment to girls. The use of the word “Accomplice” shifts the focus on doing work that dismantles the structures that oppress marginalized communities. At the heart of our mission is a deeply relational, people-centered approach, championed by Dilnaz. She recognizes that true empowerment stems from trust and authentic human connection.
Dilnaz serves as President of the WF Fund, a Chicago-based funder focused on unifying communities and amplifying impact across the country through initiatives such as Inspired Generosity and the Community Collaborative Initiative. Dilnaz sees herself as a philanthropic advocate, a role that shapes both her professional and personal life.
Grounded in her faith and family, she has spent more than 30 years engaging in interfaith communities to advance cultural sensitivity, spiritual engagement, and civic empowerment. Her early career in education shaped her desire to uplift historically marginalized communities. She brings this passion to her service on the Board of Visitors at the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy, as a trustee of Catholic Theological Union, and through her work as a volunteer hospital chaplain.
Dilnaz will share her acceptance speech at jOURneys on June 10th! RSVP below to meet the legend herself!
