Born: 1963 (Manila, Philippines)
Biography:
Maria Angelita Ressa, born Maria Angelita Delfin Aycardo on October 2, 1963, is a Filipino and American journalist who has made significant contributions to the field of journalism and been a prominent advocate for press freedom. She is the co-founder and CEO of Rappler, a groundbreaking online news platform that has gained international recognition for its fearless reporting and commitment to exposing truths.
Ressa’s journey in journalism began after she spent nearly two decades working as a lead investigative reporter in Southeast Asia for CNN. During her time with CNN, she reported on major events and stories that shaped the region and garnered worldwide attention. Her dedication to uncovering the truth and shedding light on important issues demonstrated her relentless pursuit of justice.
Born in Manila, Ressa’s upbringing was marked by diversity and cultural experiences. Her father, Phil Sunico Aycardo, a Chinese-Filipino, passed away when she was just one year old. Raised by her mother Hermelina, Ressa grew up speaking Tagalog and received her education at St. Scholastica’s College in Manila.
After her mother’s remarriage to an Italian-American man named Peter Ames Ressa, the family moved to Toms River, New Jersey, when Maria was ten years old. She was adopted by her stepfather, and she took on his last name. The transition to a new country and culture was not without its challenges, but Ressa embraced them with determination.
Despite initially struggling with the English language, Ressa rapidly adapted and excelled in her new environment. In high school, she stood out as a member of the Theater Guild and student council, showcasing her leadership skills and artistic talents. Her experiences as a young immigrant shaped her perspective, instilling in her a deep empathy for others and a drive to give a voice to those who are marginalized.
Ressa’s career achievements extend beyond her work as a journalist. She will become a Professor of Professional Practice in the School of International and Public Affairs at Columbia University on July 1, 2024, demonstrating her commitment to nurturing the next generation of aspiring journalists. She will also serve as a Distinguished Fellow at Columbia’s new Institute of Global Politics beginning in the fall of 2023, solidifying her role as an influencer in the field of journalism and international affairs.
Throughout her career, Ressa has faced numerous challenges and obstacles, particularly in her home country, the Philippines. As a prominent critic of then-Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, she became a target of his administration. On February 13, 2019, she was arrested by Philippine authorities for cyberlibel, allegedly due to Rappler publishing a false news story concerning businessman Wilfredo Keng. The arrest and subsequent conviction were widely seen as politically motivated acts aimed at suppressing press freedom and silencing dissent.
Despite these challenges, Ressa has remained resolute and defiant in her pursuit of truth and freedom of the press. Her arrest and conviction sparked international outrage and drew attention to the deteriorating state of press freedom in the Philippines. Ressa’s continued activism and unwavering commitment to upholding the principles of journalism have earned her admiration and support from journalists, human rights groups, and individuals around the world.
Her impact on society extends beyond her work in journalism. Ressa’s dedication to truth and justice has positioned her as a standout figure in women’s history. Her resilience and fearlessness in the face of adversity serve as an inspiration to aspiring female journalists, proving that their voices and stories matter and can make a lasting impact on society.
In recognition of her exceptional contributions to journalism and her relentless pursuit of truth, Ressa has received numerous accolades throughout her career. In 2018, she was included in Time’s Person of the Year issue, which featured a collection of journalists from around the world actively combating fake news. This recognition underscored her critical role in preserving the integrity of the press and shining a light on the dangers of disinformation.
Furthermore, Ressa was awarded the 2021 Nobel Peace Prize jointly with Dmitry Muratov for their efforts to safeguard freedom of expression, which is a precondition for democracy and lasting peace. This prestigious honor reflects the global recognition of Ressa’s courage, resilience, and the significant impact she has made in championing press freedom and defending the truth.
Maria Ressa’s lifelong commitment to journalism and her tireless efforts to uphold the principles of a free press make her a trailblazing figure in the field. Her unwavering dedication to truth, justice, and democracy continues to inspire and empower journalists around the world.
Awards:
– Included in Time’s Person of the Year 2018 issue
– Joint recipient of the 2021 Nobel Peace Prize