Dr. Sanja Cancar-Todorovic placed third in the 2026 Global Women Changing the World Awards Changemaker category, recognized for her 25+ years advancing inclusive innovation, mentoring entrepreneurs, and driving meaningful societal change across sectors.
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Influential Woman · Technology
Dr. Sanja Cancar-Todorovic
Principal, Global Data Center Integration & Category Management | Supply Chain, BPO & ITO Executive | Third-Party Risk Leader | CX & AI Strategy Champion | Two-Time Author | Keynote Speaker | Award-Winning Leader, Microsoft
Redmond, WA 98052
3Articles published
2Awards received
Her Story
About Dr. Sanja
Dr. Sanja Cancar-Todorovic is a globally recognized business executive and supply chain leader with more than 25 years of experience spanning the telecommunications, finance, and technology sectors. She currently serves as a Principal at Microsoft within the Global Commercial Cloud and AI Data Center Integration team, where she leads complex, large-scale supply chain initiatives supporting hyperscale and colocation data center projects. Her expertise includes data center integration, vendor and category management, third-party risk, and the strategic application of AI in business, positioning her at the forefront of innovation in cloud infrastructure and digital transformation.
Driven by a deeply personal mission to become the leader she did not have early in her career, Dr. Cancar-Todorovic has dedicated more than two decades to advancing female mentorship and leadership. Her work began in global supply chain, where she created opportunities to elevate women and minority-owned businesses, and has since expanded into global collaborations with nonprofit organizations, policymakers, academic institutions, and corporate leaders. A passionate advocate for diversity of thought and equal representation, she has worked tirelessly to increase the presence of women at senior leadership levels while fostering inclusive, forward-thinking environments across industries.
In addition to her professional accomplishments, Dr. Cancar-Todorovic is highly accomplished academically, holding a Doctor of Business Administration along with multiple advanced degrees. She completed her doctorate while balancing a full-time executive career and family life, a testament to her discipline and resilience. A published author, keynote speaker, and award-winning changemaker, she continues to influence the future of leadership through her thought leadership in AI, cybersecurity, and organizational strategy. Through every facet of her work, she remains committed to empowering others, breaking barriers, and shaping a more inclusive and innovative global business landscape.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Dr. Sanja
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a combination of perseverance, clarity of vision, and a strong support system. Completing my doctorate while maintaining a full-time career and being present for my family required discipline and intentional focus. I was fortunate to have the unwavering support of my spouse and extended family, which made it possible to pursue my goals without losing sight of what matters most. Staying grounded in my vision and remaining consistent in my efforts has been key to navigating both personal and professional challenges.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice is to stay focused on your vision and not be distracted by external noise or detractors. There will always be opinions and barriers, but it’s important to remain confident in your path. Set clear boundaries early in your career to protect your time, energy, and well-being, as burnout is a real risk in high-performing environments. Equally important, don’t hesitate to ask for help—building and leaning on a strong support network is not a weakness, but a critical component of long-term success.
03What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the most persistent challenges is the underrepresentation of women at the executive level, where in many cases, women still make up less than 30 percent of leadership roles. However, there is also a significant opportunity emerging with the rapid advancement of AI. AI has the potential to act as an equalizer, but only if we intentionally redesign traditional, often male-dominated processes and structures. Success in this space will depend not just on the technology itself, but on how we build human-centered systems and leadership approaches that enable it to thrive.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide me are diversity of thought, equal representation, and a deep commitment to mentorship. I believe that innovation and progress are driven by inclusive perspectives and empowering others to succeed. I am also passionate about ensuring that technology remains human-centered, serving people rather than replacing them. Finally, maintaining clear boundaries is essential to sustaining both personal well-being and professional effectiveness, allowing me to show up fully in every aspect of my life.
Her Content Hub
Articles by Dr. Sanja
Dr. Sanja Cancar-Todorovic wins BRONZE at 2026 Women Changing the World Global Awards
Dr. Sanja Cancar-Todorovic Recognized as Global Changemaker for Advancing Inclusive Innovation and Empowerment
At the 2026 Global Women Changing the World Awards Summit, Dr. Sanja Cancar-Todorovic (Dr. SCT) placed third worldwide in the Changemaker category—a distinction that underscores her enduring commitment to advancing inclusive innovation and meaningful societal change.
This year’s awards received over 1,500 nominations from 97 countries, highlighting the extraordinary global impact of women leading change across industries and communities.
The awards celebrate and recognize women achieving outstanding success in areas such as sustainability, humanitarian work, leadership, advocacy, education, health, and innovation. They are designed to honor the growing number of women leading the way in making the world a better place while inspiring others to do the same.
In a world increasingly defined by complexity, disruption, and rapid technological advancement, leadership that bridges industries, disciplines, and communities is both rare and essential. Dr. SCT exemplifies this kind of leadership—an impact now recognized on the global stage.
This recognition builds on a trajectory of influence shaped over more than 25 years across the telecommunications, finance, and technology sectors. Yet, it is her impact beyond the corporate sphere that has distinguished her as a true global changemaker.
Since 2013, Dr. SCT has been deeply committed to mentoring entrepreneurs from women- and minority-owned businesses through partnerships with nonprofit organizations. Her belief in diversity of thought as a catalyst for innovation has translated into tangible action—supporting emerging leaders, advancing inclusive business practices, and fostering equitable opportunities across industries.
Her collaboration with academic institutions has further amplified this mission. In 2020, she partnered with the Haslam College of Business at the University of Tennessee to advance supplier diversity and economic inclusion initiatives, helping to shape more inclusive supply chain ecosystems. This work extended into public policy in 2023, when she advised the Information and Communications Technology Council (ICTC), contributing to the development of the Pathways for Success: Women’s Economic Empowerment in Canada’s Digital Economy toolkit.
That same year marked a period of significant expansion in her impact. Dr. SCT became a mentor with NPower, co-founded goBeyondBounds.org—an initiative dedicated to breaking barriers and championing inclusive empowerment—and authored her debut book, Be Bold and Brilliant. The book quickly achieved Amazon bestseller status in the Career Guide category and went on to receive the 2025 International Impact Book Award, further cementing her role as a thought leader and advocate for bold, purpose-driven leadership.
Her commitment to mentorship continued in 2025 when she joined York University’s Advancing YU program, providing strategic guidance to senior students and accelerating their transition into professional success.
These cumulative efforts—spanning nonprofit collaboration, academic partnership, and policy advisory—formed the foundation for her global recognition. In 2025, Dr. SCT was honored as the Women Changing the World Awards Changemaker of the Year and named runner-up for Woman of the Year (Americas).
Complementing her leadership and advocacy work, Dr. SCT continues to push the boundaries of innovation through her academic and research contributions. Building on her doctoral research in AI and cybersecurity, she joined AI Future Leaders as a strategic advisor and authored the Practitioner’s Guide to AI-Driven Cybersecurity Implementation. Her work equips organizations with actionable strategies to strengthen technological resilience and foster cross-functional collaboration in an increasingly complex digital threat landscape.
Academically, Dr. SCT holds a Doctor of Business Administration, an Executive MBA, a Master of Management, and an Honours BA with a double major in Law and Political Science—credentials that underpin her multidisciplinary approach to leadership.
A sought-after speaker, published author, and award-winning executive, Dr. SCT has been featured in international media, publications, and industry events since 2019. Her influence has earned her numerous accolades, including a nomination for the Order of Canada and appearances on the covers of prominent industry magazines.
Her recognition at the 2026 Global Women Changing the World Awards Summit is more than an individual achievement—it is a reflection of what sustained, purpose-driven leadership can accomplish. By seamlessly integrating corporate leadership, academic insight, and social impact, Dr. Sanja Cancar-Todorovic continues to shape industries, empower communities, and redefine what it means to lead in a rapidly evolving world.
The complete list of winners can be found at: wcwawards.com
For more information on the Women Changing the World Awards, visit: https://wcwawards.com/
Dr. Sanja Cancar-Todorovic's "Be Bold and Brilliant" wins the 2025 International Impact Book Award, cementing its status as an essential career empowerment guide for professionals seeking leadership development and inclusive workplace success.
Be Bold and Brilliant Wins 2025 International Impact Book Award
A Celebration of Voice, Vision, and Influence
Dr. Sanja Cancar-Todorovic’s acclaimed book, Be Bold and Brilliant, has been recognized as a recipient of the 2025 International Impact Book Award, marking a significant milestone in her journey as an author, thought leader, and advocate for professional empowerment and inclusive leadership.
This prestigious recognition highlights not only the quality of the work itself, but also the depth of its impact on readers across industries and geographies. The International Impact Book Awards celebrate books that meaningfully contribute to their fields, elevate important conversations, and demonstrate excellence in storytelling, insight, and influence. In selecting Be Bold and Brilliant, the awards committee acknowledged the book’s powerful resonance with professionals seeking clarity, confidence, and direction in their careers.
In the official recognition, the awards organization extended heartfelt congratulations, stating that Dr. SCT’s “exceptional talent, dedication, and creativity have set [her] apart in a competitive field,” and describing the award as a testament to the meaningful impact her work has made in the literary world. The message further emphasized that her story, voice, and commitment to excellence have resonated strongly with both readers and judges, positioning the book as a standout contribution in its category.
At its core, Be Bold and Brilliant is more than a career guide. It is a practical and empowering framework designed to help individuals navigate professional growth with intention and confidence. Drawing on Dr. SCT’s extensive leadership experience across global industries including technology, finance, and telecommunications, the book provides readers with actionable strategies for career advancement, leadership development, and overcoming internal and external barriers to success.
The recognition from the International Impact Book Awards underscores what readers have consistently reflected: the book speaks to a universal need for empowerment in the workplace. It encourages individuals, particularly women and emerging leaders, to challenge limitations, embrace their achievements, and step boldly into opportunities that align with their capabilities and ambitions.
This award is also a reflection of Dr. SCT’s broader mission as a mentor, executive leader, and advocate for diversity of thought. Throughout her career, she has championed inclusive leadership and worked to create pathways for underrepresented talent in business and technology. Her work with global organizations, mentorship programs, and advisory initiatives has consistently focused on breaking down barriers and expanding access to leadership opportunities.
Winning the 2025 International Impact Book Award represents not only recognition of literary excellence, but also validation of the book’s real-world relevance and influence. It marks an important milestone in Dr. SCT’s ongoing commitment to empowering professionals to take ownership of their growth, build confidence in their abilities, and pursue bold, meaningful careers.
As Be Bold and Brilliant continues to reach new audiences, this award serves as both a celebration and a catalyst, amplifying its message and reinforcing its place as a trusted guide for those seeking to elevate their professional lives with courage, clarity, and conviction.
Ultimately, this recognition affirms what lies at the heart of the book: that boldness is not an innate trait reserved for a few, but a choice available to all who are willing to step forward with intention, resilience, and self-belief. For a copy of Be Bold and Brilliant, please visit: amazon.com/author/dr.sct
Dr. Sanja Cancar-Todorovic named Changemaker of the Year at 2025 Women Changing the World Regional Awards Americas. Recognized for 25+ years of leadership across telecommunications, finance, and technology, with significant impact in mentoring entrepreneurs, advancing supplier diversity, and promoting inclusive business practices.
Dr. Sanja Cancar-Todorovic wins GOLD & SILVER for Americas Awards, Women Changing the World 2025
Dr. Sanja Cancar-Todorovic honored as Changemaker of the Year for her transformative leadership in diversity, innovation, and inclusive economic empowerment.
Dr. Sanja Cancar-Todorovic was named Changemaker of the Year at the 2025 Women Changing the World Regional Awards Americas and also received the Silver Award in the Woman of the Year category, recognizing her leadership, innovation, and impact.
The Women Changing the World Americas Awards celebrate and recognize women achieving outstanding success in areas such as sustainability, humanitarian work, leadership, advocacy, technology, product development, education, health, and innovation. The awards are designed to highlight the growing number of women who are leading the way in making the world a better place for all and to inspire other women to answer the call to take action.
For Dr. Sanja Cancar-Todorovic, this recognition builds on a trajectory of influence shaped over more than 25 years across the telecommunications, finance, and technology sectors. Yet it is her impact beyond the corporate sphere that has distinguished her as a true Changemaker.
Since 2013, Dr. Cancar-Todorovic has been deeply committed to mentoring entrepreneurs from women- and minority-owned businesses through partnerships with nonprofit organizations in Canada, such as the Canadian Aboriginal and Minority Supplier Council (CAMSC) and Women Business Enterprises Canada (WBE Canada), where she also served on the Board from 2013 to 2015 as both a corporate sponsor and mentor. Her belief in diversity of thought as a catalyst for innovation has translated into tangible action—supporting emerging leaders, advancing inclusive business practices, and fostering equitable opportunities across industries. Building on this work, since 2021 she has also served in various capacities with Supply Chain Canada and the National Institute of Supply Chain Leaders, further strengthening the profession and advancing inclusive, forward-looking practices across the Canadian supply chain landscape.
Her collaboration with academic institutions further amplified this mission. In 2020, she partnered with the Haslam College of Business at the University of Tennessee to advance supplier diversity and economic inclusion initiatives, helping to shape more inclusive, globally integrated supply chain ecosystems while expanding access for diverse suppliers to scale and broaden their reach.
This work extended into public policy in 2023, when she advised the Information and Communications Technology Council (ICTC), a Canadian government-funded initiative, on its Pathways for Success: Women’s Economic Empowerment in Canada’s Digital Economy toolkit. In the same year, representing the financial services sector, she collaborated with the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions (OSFI), Canada’s federal financial regulator, on updates to the B-10 guideline, helping ensure the framework better reflects and accommodates diverse, innovative suppliers that may not fit the traditional profile of large, multi-million-dollar enterprises within financial institution ecosystems.
Needless to say, 2023 marked a significant expansion in her impact. Dr. Cancar-Todorovic also became a mentor with NPower, co-founded goBeyondBounds.org—an initiative dedicated to breaking barriers and championing inclusive empowerment—and authored her debut book, Be Bold and Brilliant. The book quickly achieved Amazon bestseller status in the Career Guide category and went on to receive the 2025 International Impact Book Award, further cementing her role as a thought leader and advocate for bold, purpose-driven leadership. Her commitment to mentorship continued in 2025 when she joined York University’s Advancing YU program, providing strategic guidance to senior students and accelerating their transition into professional success.
Complementing her leadership and advocacy work at Women in Tech® Canada, Dr. Cancar-Todorovic continues to push the boundaries of innovation through her academic and research contributions. Building on her doctoral research in AI and cybersecurity, in 2025 she joined AI Future Leaders—an AI Leadership and Learning Academy—as a strategic advisor. In this role, she is dedicated to helping organizations realize measurable business value and ROI from artificial intelligence by partnering with corporate teams, professionals, and educators to build the skills, confidence, and strategic insight required to integrate AI effectively into real-world operations. Following the successful defense of her doctoral dissertation, she authored A Practitioner’s Guide to AI-Driven Cybersecurity Implementation, providing organizations with actionable strategies to strengthen technological resilience and enable effective cross-functional collaboration in an increasingly complex and evolving digital threat landscape.
Academically, Dr. Cancar-Todorovic holds a Doctor of Business Administration, an Executive Master of Business Administration, a Master of Management, and an Honours Bachelor of Arts degree with a double major in Law and Political Science—credentials that underpin her multidisciplinary approach to leadership.
A sought-after speaker, published author, and award-winning executive, Dr. Cancar-Todorovic has been featured in numerous national and international media outlets, publications, and industry events since 2019. Her influence has earned her multiple accolades and appearances on the covers of prominent industry magazines.
The complete list of winners can be found at: https://wcwawards.com/winners-americas
For more information on the Women Changing the World Awards, visit: https://wcwawards.com/
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