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Badri Teymourtash, known as the “Mother of Dentistry” in Iran, was a pioneering figure in the field of dentistry and a prominent social activist. She shattered gender barriers and inspired women to pursue their dreams in male-dominated fields. Her dedication and contributions to dentistry and women’s rights left a lasting impact on Iranian society.
Maryam Mirzakhani was an Iranian mathematician and professor of mathematics at Stanford University. She made tremendous contributions to the field of mathematics in areas such as Teichmüller theory, hyperbolic geometry, ergodic theory, and symplectic geometry. Mirzakhani became the first Iranian woman to win a gold medal at the International Mathematical Olympiad and went on to become one of the first two women to receive the prestigious Fields Medal in 2014. Her legacy continues to inspire future generations in the field of mathematics.
Zahra Khanom Tadj es-Saltaneh, also known as Princess Qajar, was a feminist and women’s rights activist from Iran. Through her memoirs, she shed light on the limitations faced by Persian women and challenged the restrictive nature of Qajar society. Zahra Khanom defied societal norms by divorcing her husband, becoming one of the first women in the royal family to do so, and advocating for women’s empowerment in Iran. Her activism and contributions to women’s history continue to inspire generations of women striving for gender equality and social justice.
Tâdj ol-Molouk, the daughter of Brigadier General Teym?r Khan Ayromlou, played a crucial role as Queen during her husband Reza Shah’s reign in Iran. She became the first Queen after the Muslim conquest in the seventh century to participate in public royal representation, paving the way for future queens to actively engage in public life. Her contributions to women’s rights, including the abolition of the veil and increasing women’s participation in society, remain significant in Iranian history.
Shadi Amin is an Iranian writer and activist known for her advocacy for women’s rights and the rights of the LGBTQ+ community. Born in 1964, Amin became politically active at a young age, opposing the rule of Ayatollah Khomeini in 1979 when she was only 14 years old. Her activism led to her being forced to leave Iran in the early 1980s.
Nazanin Daneshvar, an Iranian Internet entrepreneur, has made a significant impact on society through her pioneering e-commerce platform, Takhfifan. As the first female website entrepreneur in Iran, she faced skepticism and obstacles, but her determination and innovative approach helped her carve a niche in the industry. With her accomplishments, Daneshvar has not only revolutionized e-commerce in Iran but also empowered women and fostered gender equality in the business sector.
Farzaneh Kaboli is an Iranian dancer, choreographer, and actress. She was born and raised in Tehran and developed a passion for dance at a young age. Despite the ban on dancing in Iran after the revolution, Kaboli continued to teach and perform underground. She later made a triumphant return to the stage and established her own dance company. Kaboli has also made a mark as an actress, showcasing her talent and versatility in various productions.
Shahla Sherkat, an influential Iranian journalist, author, and women’s rights activist, has dedicated her life to advocating for women’s rights and challenging societal norms. Through her groundbreaking publications, such as Zanan magazine, she has shed light on the experiences and struggles of Iranian women, making a lasting impact on society. Despite facing adversity and legal battles, Sherkat remains a symbol of resilience and determination in the fight for gender equality.
Shadi Sadr is an Iranian lawyer, human rights advocate, essayist, and journalist. She has made significant contributions to the promotion of human rights, particularly in Iran, where she has actively fought against social injustices and worked to improve the lives of women.
Anousheh Ansari, an Iranian American engineer born in 1966, is a leading figure in technology and space exploration. As the co-founder and chairwoman of Prodea Systems, she has achieved significant success in business and has paved the way for women in male-dominated fields. Her journey to the International Space Station as the first self-funded Iranian and female space tourist has inspired countless individuals worldwide.
Yasmine Pahlavi is an Iranian-American lawyer and human rights activist. She co-founded the Foundation for the Children of Iran and worked as a staff attorney for the Children’s Law Center, advocating for the rights of at-risk and underprivileged youth. She also publicly shared her battle with breast cancer, raising awareness about the importance of early detection. Married to Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi, they have three daughters and currently reside in the United States.
Maryam Firouz, a prominent figure in the women’s rights movement, was an Iranian politician known for her resilience and commitment to her beliefs. Fluent in multiple languages, she joined the Tudeh party and founded its women’s section, working tirelessly for the rights and empowerment of Iranian women. Despite facing exile and imprisonment, Maryam remained dedicated to her cause throughout her life.
Alenush Terian, the “Mother of Modern Iranian Astronomy,” was an Iranian-Armenian astronomer and physicist. Born into an Armenian family in Tehran in 1921, she pursued her education in science and made significant contributions to the field of physics in Iran. Despite facing obstacles, she became the first female professor of physics in the country and played a vital role in establishing the solar observatory at the University of Tehran. Terian’s dedication and expertise earned her recognition both nationally and internationally. She passed away in Tehran in 2011, leaving behind a lasting legacy.
Parvin Ardalan is a prominent Iranian women’s rights activist, writer, and journalist. Despite not speaking Kurdish, she has made significant contributions to the fight for equal rights for men and women in Iran. Ardalan’s dedication to this cause has earned her recognition both within Iran and internationally.
Saba Kord Afshari, an Iranian political prisoner, gained international recognition for defying Iran’s mandatory hijab law. Her bravery and activism made her a symbol of resistance, standing up for women’s rights and personal freedom. Despite facing imprisonment and a harsh sentence, she continues to inspire individuals in Iran and around the world to fight for human rights.
Sediqeh Dowlatabadi (1882-1961) was an Iranian feminist activist and journalist who dedicated her life to fighting for women’s rights and promoting education and empowerment for women in Iran. Despite facing opposition and threats, she established one of the first girls’ primary schools and the first women’s gazette in Isfahan. Her activism extended beyond Iran’s borders, and her efforts laid the foundation for future generations of activists in the Iranian women’s movement.
Shirin Ebadi, born in 1947 in Hamadan, Iran, is a Nobel laureate, lawyer, former judge, and founder of the Defenders of Human Rights Center in Iran. She became the first Muslim woman to win the Nobel Peace Prize in 2003 for her pioneering efforts in advancing democracy and fighting for the rights of women, children, and refugees. Despite facing threats and harassment, Ebadi continues to be an influential voice for human rights.
Roya Toloui is a prominent Kurdish-Iranian journalist, human rights activist, and feminist, currently residing in the US. She was born on May 22, 1966, in Baneh, Kurdistan Province, Iran. Growing up in Baneh, Toloui completed her high school education before pursuing a PhD in Medical laboratory from the University of Mashad.
Rayehe Mozafarian is a prominent Iranian women and children rights activist, author, and documentary filmmaker. She has dedicated her life to raising awareness and fighting for the rights of women and children in Iran, particularly against harmful practices like female genital mutilation (FGM) and child marriage. Her books, such as “Razor and Tradition” and “The Knot: Early Marriage in Iran,” as well as her documentary films, have made significant contributions to shedding light on these issues and advocating for change.
Soheila Fors (born 8 February 1967) is an Iranian-Swedish women’s rights activist, writer, and founder of the Khatoon-foundation for immigrant women. She has made significant contributions to the empowerment and support of women, particularly those from immigrant backgrounds, who have experienced abuse and isolation.
Zahra Nemati is an Iranian Paralympic and Olympic archer who has become an inspiring figure in the world of sports. Her story of triumph over adversity and resilience in the face of challenges showcases the power of determination. From a car accident that left her paralyzed to winning gold medals at the Paralympics and becoming the first Iranian athlete to qualify for both the Summer Olympics and Paralympics, Nemati’s journey is truly remarkable.
Tomyris, the queen of the Massagetae, exhibited courage and determination when defending her people against an attack by Cyrus the Great. Despite the loss of her son and her army, Tomyris led her forces to victory, killing Cyrus himself. Her leadership and resilience continue to inspire women leaders today.
Mehrangiz Dowlatshahi, an influential Iranian social activist and politician, dedicated her life to improving women’s rights and societal development in Iran. She worked tirelessly to achieve gender equality, played a crucial role in establishing women’s organizations, and initiated adult literacy programs. Despite the obstacles she faced, Dowlatshahi made history as the first woman ambassador of Imperial Iran and left behind a lasting legacy in the women’s movement.
Ashraf ol-Molouk Pahlavi, born in 1919 in Tehran, Iran, played a significant role in shaping the political landscape of Iran. As the twin sister of Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, the last Shah of Iran, Ashraf was known as the “power behind her brother.” She defied tradition by abandoning the traditional veil and became a lifelong advocate for women’s rights, both in Iran and beyond. Despite living in exile after the Iranian Revolution, Ashraf’s legacy of courage and dedication to women’s empowerment continues to inspire.
Mohtaram Eskandari was a prominent Iranian intellectual and advocate for women’s rights. As the co-founder and leader of the first women’s rights association in Persia, she played a crucial role in promoting women’s education and fighting for their rights. Despite facing challenges and arrest, her tireless efforts made her a well-known figure in Iran. Sadly, she passed away at the age of 29 due to complications from a childhood back surgery.