Rababa Mohammadi, an Afghan artist and entrepreneur based in Canada, has been named “Artist of the Year 2026” by the Max Gala organization.
The organization presented Mohammadi with the award at a ceremony attended by dozens of artists in Toronto.
Smile Canada also announced that Mohammadi had received the award, describing her as an Afghan artist and entrepreneur who participated in its Open Shop program.
“We are proud to celebrate the success of Rababa, an Afghan artist and entrepreneur in Smile’s Open Shop program, and this well-deserved recognition of her talent and creativity,” Smile Canada said.
Mohammadi also expressed her happiness in a message after receiving the award.
“Another achievement has been added to my artistic accomplishments. I have received the Max Gala Canada Artist of the Year 2026 award,” she wrote.
In an Instagram post, she said the trophy was more than just an award. It reminded her of the days when, despite difficulties, she continued to believe in her dreams and never gave up.
Mohammadi was selected from 200 nominated artists. Based on public voting and the judges’ assessments, she advanced to the top 10 before being chosen as Artist of the Year from among the three finalists.
Max Gala was established in Canada in 2015 and presents annual awards to influential and inspirational figures in 10 different fields. The organization also names Canada’s Artist of the Year and Woman of the Year each year.
Mohammadi was born in Ghazni province and has been painting professionally since 2015.
Her artwork largely reflects the experiences, aspirations, and challenges of Afghan women and has attracted considerable attention.
Mohammadi left Afghanistan after the Taliban returned to power in August 2021 and later settled in Canada.
She has disabilities affecting both her arms and legs and paints with her mouth. She has previously received several awards in recognition of her artistic work and perseverance.
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