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Jill Heinerth (born 1965) is a Canadian cave diver, underwater explorer, writer, photographer, and filmmaker. She has made TV series for PBS, National Geographic Channel, and the BBC, consulted on movies for directors including James Cameron, written several books, and produced documentaries including “We Are Water” and “Ben’s Vortex,” about the disappearance of Ben McDaniel.
Elena Valeryevna Milashina is a Russian investigative journalist known for her extensive work with Novaya Gazeta. Throughout her career, she has been recognized for her courageous reporting and commitment to uncovering the truth. Born in 1977, Milashina has faced numerous threats and attacks over the years due to her fearless pursuit of justice.
Robin Roberts (born November 23, 1960) is an American television broadcaster who has made significant contributions to the field of journalism. She is best known as the anchor of ABC’s Good Morning America, where her warm personality and insightful reporting have endeared her to millions of viewers.
Míriam Martinho (born 1954) is one of the leading feminists in Brazil and part of the second generation of feminist journalists, who emerged in the 1980s. She was one of the first people to bring lesbianism openly into the fold of feminism and founded one of the first Lesbian-Feminist organizations in the country. She and Rosely Roth gained recognition for staging a protest, known as the “Brazilian Stonewall,” at Ferro’s Bar in 1983.
Elena Kostyuchenko, a Russian journalist and gay rights activist, has made significant contributions as an investigative reporter for Novaya Gazeta. She has shed light on important issues such as the punk protest band Pussy Riot, the Zhanaozen massacre, the construction of a controversial highway, and Russia’s involvement in Eastern Ukraine. Despite facing challenges and physical assault, Kostyuchenko remains dedicated to uncovering the truth and advocating for human rights in Russia.
Ruby Dee (1922-2014) was an American actress, poet, playwright, screenwriter, journalist, and civil rights activist. She gained national recognition for her role in the film “The Jackie Robinson Story” and went on to have a successful career in film and theater. Dee was also actively involved in television and used her platform to advocate for racial equality and social justice. Her outstanding contributions to the entertainment industry and dedication to activism have left a lasting legacy.
Mary B. Thistlethwaite Birdsall, an American suffragette and journalist, dedicated her life to fighting for women’s rights. From her early career as the woman’s editor at the Indiana Farmer newspaper to her ownership of The Lily, a newspaper for women, Birdsall played a crucial role in advancing the suffrage movement. Her contributions and leadership within the Indiana Woman’s Suffrage Association were instrumental in the fight for equality. Mary Birdsall’s legacy continues to inspire generations of activists.
Sandra Abd’Allah-Alvarez Ramírez, a Cuban writer and activist, has dedicated her life to advocating for the rights of women, Afro-Cubans, and LGBT individuals. Through her work as an editor, blogger, and journalist, Ramírez has challenged societal biases and discrimination, sparking important conversations on racism, sexism, and homophobia. Her tireless activism and commitment to social justice have made her a prominent figure in shaping the trajectory of women’s history in Cuba and beyond.
Virgínia Sofia Guerra Quaresma, the first woman to pursue professional journalism in Portugal, was a lesbian, feminist, and advocate for gender equality. She brought attention to violence against women through her coverage of a murder case in Brazil. Quaresma relocated to Brazil in the 1930s but continued to travel internationally advocating for women’s rights. She was honored with a street renaming in Lisbon and a stamp bearing her likeness in 2010.
Jane Amanda Hill, born in 1969 in Eastbourne, Sussex, is an English newsreader and one of the main presenters for BBC News. With her extensive experience and versatility as a newsreader, Hill has become a prominent figure in the field of journalism, known for her dedication to delivering accurate and credible news to the public.
Tanya DePass, also known as Cypheroftyr, is an American journalist, activist, and streamer who has made significant contributions to the gaming industry. Dedicated to promoting diversity and inclusivity, she has written articles for respected publications, founded the nonprofit organization I Need Diverse Games, and developed the Fifth Season RPG. Despite facing harassment, she remains committed to her mission and has organized charity streams to support causes beyond gaming. DePass has received numerous awards and honors, solidifying her position as a leading figure in gaming and activism.
Anita Sarkeesian is a Canadian-American feminist media critic and public speaker. She is best known as the founder of Feminist Frequency, a website that hosts videos and commentary analyzing portrayals of women in popular culture. Sarkeesian’s work has had a significant impact on how women are represented in media and has sparked important discussions about gender equality.
Gayle King (born December 28, 1954) is an American television personality, author, and broadcast journalist for CBS News. She is best known for co-hosting its flagship morning program, CBS Mornings, and before that its predecessor CBS This Morning. In addition, she serves as an editor-at-large for O, The Oprah Magazine. King has made a significant impact on the media landscape and has been recognized as one of the most influential personalities in recent years.
Rachel Kaadzi Ghansah is a renowned American essayist known for her captivating longform journalism. In 2018, she won the Pulitzer Prize for Feature Writing for her compelling profile on white supremacist Dylann Roof. Ghansah’s ability to deeply analyze and understand her subjects has earned her widespread recognition and praise. She has also made significant contributions to academia through her teaching positions at top universities. Her multicultural upbringing and heritage have shaped her perspectives, making her an inspiration to aspiring female writers, particularly those from minority backgrounds. With her upcoming book and prestigious awards, Ghansah’s influence continues to grow in the literary world.
Gayle Gardner (born ca. 1950) is an American sportscaster who worked for ESPN and NBC Sports beginning in 1987 until 1993. Gardner is considered a pioneer in sports broadcasting, having been the first female sports anchor to appear weekly on a major network.
Engy Ayman Ghozlan, born in Cairo in 1985, is a prominent social activist and journalist who has dedicated her career to addressing the issue of sexual harassment of women in Egypt. She earned a bachelor’s degree in mass communication from Cairo University in 2007 and has since become a leading advocate for women’s rights in the country.
Marija Jurić Zagorka, born on March 2, 1873, in the village of Negovec, was a Croatian journalist, writer, and women’s rights activist. Known by her pen name Zagorka, she was the first female journalist in Croatia and among the most read Croatian writers. Her life was full of challenges and triumphs, and her influence on society and women’s history is undeniable.
May Chidiac is a journalist and former Lebanese Minister of State for Administrative Development. She courageously spoke out against Syria’s presence in Lebanon and survived an assassination attempt in 2005 that resulted in the amputation of her left leg below the knee. Despite the trauma, she returned to TV and later entered politics, inspiring people with her resilience.
Diane Rehm (/?ri?m/; born Diane Aed; September 21, 1936) is an American journalist and a prominent figure in the world of public radio. She has made significant contributions to journalism and has had a lasting impact on society through her work. From her early days as a radio dispatcher to her decades as the host of “The Diane Rehm Show” on National Public Radio (NPR), Rehm has consistently shown a dedication to open dialogue and thoughtful conversation.
Mary White Ovington, born in Brooklyn in 1865, was a suffragist, journalist, and one of the co-founders of the NAACP. As a passionate advocate for civil rights, Ovington dedicated her life to fighting for equality, particularly in education and employment for African-Americans. Her involvement in the civil rights movement and her contributions to the suffrage cause made her a notable figure in the early 20th century.
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.
Kallirhoe Parren was a prominent figure in Greek feminism and an influential journalist and writer during the late 19th and early 20th century. She founded the groundbreaking newspaper Ephemeris ton kyrion (Ladies’ Journal), played a crucial role in establishing the National Council of Greek Women, and fought for educational opportunities and improved working conditions for women. Her tireless efforts paved the way for women’s rights in Greece.
Hiratsuka Raichō was a pioneering feminist and influential Japanese writer. Born in Tokyo in 1886, she received her education at Japan Women’s University, where she studied European philosophy and Zen Buddhism. Hiratsuka founded Japan’s first all-women literary magazine, Seitō, in 1911, and used her platform to advocate for women’s rights and challenge societal norms. Her courage and dedication to gender equality continue to inspire activists worldwide.
Nezihe Muhiddin Tepedelengil was a Turkish women’s rights activist, suffragette, journalist, writer, and political leader. She played a major role in the women’s movement in the 20th century Ottoman Empire, advocating for women’s political rights. Through her activism, she founded the Women’s People’s Party and the Turkish Women’s Union, leaving a lasting impact on women’s rights in Turkey.
Idola Saint-Jean, a Quebec journalist, educator, and feminist, dedicated her life to advocating for women’s rights in Quebec. Her efforts led to women being granted the right to vote in 1940. She was highly educated and taught at McGill University, inspiring young minds. Saint-Jean founded the Alliance canadienne pour le vote des femmes au Québec and persistently advocated for suffrage, ultimately succeeding in her mission. Her legacy of women’s rights advocacy continues to shape Quebec society.
Clara Zetkin was a prominent figure in the German Marxist movement and a leading advocate for women’s rights. Her dedication to socialism and women’s liberation left an indelible mark on women’s history and inspired generations of activists.
Gloria Marie Steinem, an American journalist and social-political activist, was born on March 25, 1934, in Toledo, Ohio. She is renowned for emerging as a nationally recognized leader of second-wave feminism in the United States during the late 1960s and early 1970s. Steinem’s contributions to the feminist movement have made a profound impact on society, challenging traditional gender roles and advocating for gender equality.
Katharine Gatty was a nurse, journalist, lecturer, and militant suffragette. She played a significant role in the Women’s Social and Political Union (WSPU) and received the Hunger Strike Medal from them after going on a hunger strike in prison. Her contributions to the suffrage movement, as well as her later adventures in California and Australia, make her a notable figure in women’s history.
Shamima Shaikh (1960-1998) was a prominent Muslim women’s rights activist, Islamic feminist, and journalist from South Africa. She dedicated her life to fighting for social justice and challenging patriarchal barriers within the Muslim community. Despite her untimely death, her legacy continues to inspire activists and feminists today.
Tatiana Mamonova, also known as Tatyana Mamonova, was a renowned leader in the Russian women’s movement and a respected author, poet, journalist, videographer, artist, editor, and public lecturer. Her journey began in Leningrad after World War II, and she later became the first feminist dissident to be exiled from the Soviet Union in 1980. Mamonova founded the first non-governmental organization dedicated to promoting the human rights of women from the Soviet Union, and her work had a significant impact on the women’s movement internationally.
Marie-Laure Norindr, better known as Kayane, was born on June 17, 1991, in Paris, France. She grew up in the suburb of Argenteuil and is of Laotian and Vietnamese descent. From a young age, Kayane developed a deep passion for video games and became particularly interested in fighting games such as Dead or Alive, Soulcalibur, and Street Fighter.
Emily Hsiu-Ching Chang, born on August 11, 1980, is an American journalist, executive producer, and author. With a focus on global technology, Chang has made a significant impact on the field. She has not only been an anchor and executive producer of Bloomberg Technology, a daily TV show, but she has also spearheaded Studio 1.0, where she engages in regular conversations with top executives, investors, and entrepreneurs. Furthermore, Chang is the author of the book “Brotopia: Breaking Up the Boys’ Club of Silicon Valley,” which highlights the issue of sexism and gender inequality in the tech industry.
Meredith Broussard is a prominent figure in the field of data journalism and a respected professor at the Arthur L. Carter Journalism Institute at New York University. With a focus on the role of artificial intelligence in journalism, Broussard’s contributions have greatly impacted the understanding and practice of data-driven reporting.
Rhea Clyman was a Polish-born Canadian journalist who reported on the devastating Holodomor in the Soviet Union. Her firsthand accounts shed light on the tragic famine and its toll on the Ukrainian people. Clyman’s fearless pursuit of truth and justice made her a prominent figure in journalism and a champion for humanitarian causes.
Claudia Alta “Lady Bird” Johnson was the first lady of the United States from 1963 to 1969. She made significant contributions to American society, actively engaging with Congress and advocating for causes she believed in. One of her lasting legacies is her dedication to the beautification of America’s cities and highways, which led to the passage of the Highway Beautification Act. Lady Bird Johnson’s commitment to environmental conservation and her belief in the power of nature continues to inspire and shape public policy today.
Jay Mala (1958-2023) was an Indian journalist, politician, advocate, and social activist. She was a senior advocate of the Supreme Court of India, known for filing and winning over 600 cases. Notably, Jay Mala’s landmark case in 1985 brought about significant changes to tort law in India. Her unwavering commitment to justice and activism left a lasting impact on India’s legal and social landscapes.
Sonia Denise Humphrey (10 November 1947 – 1 January 2011) was an Australian television presenter, newsreader, and journalist who made significant contributions to the field of broadcasting. Known for her dedication and talent, Humphrey’s career spanned various genres and her influence on Australian television continues to be evident.
Hannah Storm, born as Hannah Lynn Storen Hicks in 1962, is an esteemed American television sports journalist. Known for her groundbreaking achievements in sports broadcasting, Storm is widely recognized for her work as the anchor of ESPN’s SportsCenter Face to Face and as the play-by-play announcer on Amazon Prime Video during Thursday Night Football. Her expertise, professionalism, and passion have earned her numerous awards and cemented her as one of the most respected voices in the industry.
Letizia Ortiz Rocasolano, born in 1972 in Oviedo, Asturias, is the current Queen of Spain. She married King Felipe VI in 2004 and has since dedicated herself to her role as queen consort. Letizia is known for her elegance, intelligence, and determination, using her position to advocate for important issues and promote positive change. She has left a lasting impact on women’s history, breaking barriers and stereotypes in leadership.
Zehra Doğan is a Kurdish artist, journalist, and author who gained international recognition for her courageous activism and use of art to shed light on the struggles of the Kurdish people. Despite facing government oppression, she founded Jinha, a feminist Kurdish news agency, and reported on the intense clashes in Nusaybin. Her art, including a painting depicting the destruction of Nusaybin, became a powerful medium for raising awareness. Despite imprisonment, she continued to defy suppression, and her resilience has made her a remarkable artist and activist in women’s history.
Susan R. Eaton, a Canadian geoscientist, journalist, and polar explorer, has defied the traditional stereotype of a polar explorer and has made significant contributions in the field. Throughout her life, she has been dedicated to exploring and investigating the world’s oceans. Eaton’s transformative journey from the Antarctic to the Arctic, exploring the world’s oceans in the snorkel zones, also gave her the opportunity to reflect deeply on the nature of exploration. She established Sedna Epic Expeditions, a female-led and operated venture dedicated to polar exploration, to empower women in traditionally male-dominated fields. Eaton’s work has firmly established her as one of Canada’s greatest modern-day explorers and trailblazers.
Rachael Rebecca Bland was a British journalist and presenter known for her contributions to broadcasting and cancer awareness. She began her career at BBC Wiltshire and went on to work at BBC Radio 5 Live, where she presented news bulletins and became a popular figure on “The Special Half Hour Club.” Bland also ventured into sports presenting on television and served as a relief and weekend presenter on BBC News Channel and BBC World News. In addition to her professional accomplishments, she was passionate about sports and participated in triathlons to raise funds for breast cancer care. Tragically, Bland passed away in 2018, leaving behind a legacy of resilience and dedication in raising cancer awareness.
Giuliana Sgrena, an influential Italian journalist, has dedicated her career to uncovering the truth and shedding light on important global issues. Born and raised in Masera, she grew up with a father who was a notable partisan during World War II. Sgrena’s early awareness of political and societal issues shaped her future as a journalist. Her unwavering dedication to reporting the truth led her to cover various conflicts and advocate for women’s rights. Despite facing grave risks, Sgrena’s passion and bravery as a journalist have left a lasting impact on the world of journalism.
Elizabeth Gilbert is an American journalist and author best known for her bestselling memoir, Eat, Pray, Love. Raised in a unconventional environment on a Christmas tree farm, Gilbert’s upbringing greatly influenced her writing. She embarked on a path of self-education through travel and work after graduating from New York University, which eventually led her to international acclaim with the publication of Eat, Pray, Love. Gilbert’s honest exploration of vulnerability and the search for fulfillment continues to inspire readers worldwide.
Maria Angelita Ressa, born in Manila, Philippines in 1963, is a Filipino and American journalist known for her significant contributions to journalism and her advocacy for press freedom. As the co-founder and CEO of Rappler, a groundbreaking online news platform, she has received international recognition for her fearless reporting and commitment to exposing truths. Ressa’s journey in journalism began with her work as an investigative reporter for CNN in Southeast Asia, where she covered major events and stories with a relentless pursuit of justice. She has overcome challenges and obstacles throughout her career, particularly in the Philippines, where her criticism of the government led to her arrest and conviction. Despite these challenges, Ressa remains resolute in her pursuit of truth and press freedom, serving as an inspiration to journalists around the world. Her exceptional contributions have been recognized with awards such as inclusion in Time’s Person of the Year 2018 issue and the joint recipient of the 2021 Nobel Peace Prize for her efforts in safeguarding freedom of expression and defending the truth.
Gwen Lister (born 5 December 1953 in East London, South Africa) is a prominent Namibian journalist, publisher, and anti-apartheid activist. With a steadfast commitment to press freedom, Lister has fearlessly endured numerous challenges and made significant contributions to the field of journalism in Namibia.
María Jesús Alvarado Rivera was a Peruvian rebel feminist, educator, journalist, writer, and social activist. She was noted by the National Council of Women of Peru in 1969 as the “first modern champion of women’s rights in Peru”. Despite limited formal education opportunities, Alvarado Rivera became an influential figure in promoting vocational education, women’s suffrage, and the inclusion of women in government jobs. Her tireless efforts made a lasting impact on gender equality in Peru.
Maria Lamas (6 October 1893 – 6 December 1983) was a Portuguese writer, translator, journalist, and feminist political activist. She played a significant role in advocating for women’s rights in Portugal during the 20th century and made notable contributions to Portuguese literature. Her life and work were marked by a dedication to social justice and a commitment to challenging traditional gender norms.
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.
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.
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.
Virginia Bolten, an Argentine journalist, anarchist, and feminist activist, made significant contributions to the fight for women’s rights in Argentina. Known for her exceptional oratory skills, Bolten organized demonstrations and strikes, published anarchist newspapers, and fought for labor rights. Her dedication to social justice remained steadfast throughout her lifetime, making her an influential figure in the anarchist and feminist movements.
Chen Xiefen, born in 1883 in Hengshan, Hunan Province, was a Chinese feminist, revolutionary, and journalist. She is widely recognized as one of the first progressive Chinese women to use the press as a tool to advocate for women’s rights. Throughout her life, Chen championed women’s education, called for gender equality, and advocated for economic independence for women.
Françoise Giroud, born Lea France Gourdji on September 21, 1916, in Lausanne, Switzerland, was a remarkable French journalist, screenwriter, writer, and politician. She made significant contributions to the fields of journalism, literature, and culture, becoming a beacon of inspiration for generations to come. Giroud’s dedication to women’s rights and cultural preservation led to her appointment as the Secretary of State for Women’s Affairs and later as the Minister of Culture. She was a trailblazer who left an indelible mark on French society.
Louise Weiss was a French author, journalist, feminist, and European politician, born in Arras, France in 1893. She dedicated her life to promoting women’s rights, social justice, and peace. Weiss played an important role in French politics, founded a hospital during World War I, and joined the French Resistance during World War II. She was a renowned figure in European politics and made significant contributions to the European Parliament. Weiss’s legacy as a trailblazer continues to inspire future generations.
Sofia Nădejde, a remarkable Romanian novelist, playwright, translator, journalist, women’s rights activist, and socialist, made significant contributions in various fields and played a crucial role in advocating for women’s social and political emancipation. She was a talented writer, feminist, and progressive thinker, leaving an indelible mark on women’s history in Romania.
Anna Whitlock was a Swedish reform pedagogue, journalist, suffragette, and feminist. She played a crucial role in advancing women’s rights in Sweden and made significant contributions to education reform. Whitlock’s tireless efforts as a reform pedagogue, journalist, suffragette, and feminist left a powerful legacy in Sweden. Her contributions to education reform and the advancement of women’s rights remain influential to this day.
Helen M. Gougar (1843-1907) was a pioneering force in the suffrage and temperance movements. Her multi-faceted career as a lawyer, women’s rights advocate, and newspaper journalist made her a remarkable figure. Gougar’s unwavering dedication to justice, equality, and social change left a lasting impact on American society, and her contributions continue to be recognized and celebrated today.
Elizabeth Rayner Belloc, better known as Bessie Rayner Parkes, was a trailblazing English feminist, poet, essayist, and journalist. She used her poetic talents to advocate for women’s rights and played a crucial role in the passing of the Married Women’s Property Act in 1870. Her activism extended beyond British shores, and her contributions continue to inspire women today.
Audie N. Cornish is an American journalist and former co-host of NPR’s All Things Considered. She is a CNN anchor and correspondent, as well as the host of The Assignment podcast. With a journalism degree from the University of Massachusetts-Amherst, Cornish interned at NPR and worked for various media outlets before joining NPR full-time. She has received recognition for her exceptional reporting, including winning first prize in the National Awards for Education Writing in 2005.
Joan Murray (1937-2021) was a trailblazing African-American woman who shattered barriers in journalism. As the first African-American woman to report the news on a major network show, Murray’s determination and resilience paved the way for women of color in broadcast journalism. Her groundbreaking achievements, including being the first African-American newswoman at WCBS and participating in the All Woman Transcontinental Air Race, will forever inspire and empower future generations.
Trudy Haynes, the first African American woman to hold various television reporting positions, broke barriers and shattered stereotypes in the field of broadcast journalism. Despite facing challenges and discrimination, Haynes demonstrated resilience and achieved remarkable success throughout her career. Her groundbreaking work opened doors for countless individuals of color in the media industry.
Linda “Jo” Giovannoni is an influential motorcycle journalist and rider who co-founded Harley Women magazine, the first national motorcycling publication devoted to women motorcycle enthusiasts. She appeared on various national shows and was featured in the book “Hear Me Roar” by Ann Ferrar. Giovannoni overcame her fear of riding motorcycles and became an active member of the motorcycle community, working in the parts department of a Harley-Davidson dealership and getting involved in organizations such as ABATE and Women in the Wind.
Lee Thornton (1941-2013) was a trailblazing American journalist and professor who broke racial barriers in the field. She worked for prestigious news organizations such as CBS, CNN, and NPR, and was the first African American woman to cover the White House. Thornton’s impact extended beyond her reporting, as she also made significant contributions to academia, teaching journalism at Howard University and the University of Maryland. Her dedication, excellence, and commitment to truth have left an enduring legacy in the world of journalism.
Sonia Bunting, a South African journalist, political activist, and anti-apartheid activist, dedicated her life to fighting against racial oppression and injustice. Her unwavering commitment to justice and equality, despite facing immense adversity, inspired countless others to join the struggle for freedom. Her legacy serves as a testament to the power of individuals to effect positive change in the face of injustice.
Ida Bell Wells-Barnett was a pioneering American investigative journalist, educator, and civil rights leader. She co-founded the NAACP and dedicated her career to fighting prejudice and violence, advocating for African-American equality. Wells exposed the horrors of lynching and highlighted the injustices faced by African Americans in the South. Despite facing backlash and threats, her fearless activism and unwavering commitment continue to inspire to this day.
Marie Marvingt was a remarkable French athlete, mountaineer, aviator, and journalist who made significant contributions in various fields during her lifetime. Known for her relentless pursuit of excellence, Marvingt achieved great success and broke down barriers in multiple sports and professions.
Constance Yu-Hwa Chung, an American journalist born in 1946, has had an impressive career in broadcast news. From conducting famous interviews with influential figures to sharing her own experiences of sexual harassment, Chung’s impact on the industry has been significant. Her dedication to reporting the truth and ability to connect with her audience make her an influential figure in American media.
Michiko Kakutani, born in 1955 in New Haven, Connecticut, is an influential American writer and retired literary critic. Her insightful reviews and analytical abilities during her time as a book reviewer for The New York Times earned her widespread praise and established her as a major voice in the literary world. She was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for Criticism in 1998 for her outstanding contributions to literary criticism.
Jeanne Leuba was a French journalist, writer, and poet known for her extensive experience in Indochina and Cambodia. Her works shed light on the cultures, histories, and arts of these regions. Despite facing numerous challenges, Leuba made significant contributions to the fields of journalism, literature, and archaeology, establishing herself as an influential figure in women’s history.
Maria W. Stewart was an influential American teacher, journalist, abolitionist, and lecturer who made significant contributions to the anti-slavery and women’s rights movements. As the first African American woman to publicly address mixed audiences and advocate for women’s rights and the abolition of slavery, she paved the way for future activists. Her powerful oratory skills and writings inspired generations and played a vital role in advancing these causes.
Mary Ann Camberton Shadd Cary was a trailblazer in promoting racial equality and women’s rights. As the first black woman publisher in North America and the second black woman to attend law school in the US, she dedicated her life to education, abolition, and civil rights. Her activism and accomplishments continue to inspire and shape history.
Bukola Oriola, a Nigerian-American journalist, was born in 1976. She currently resides in Anoka County, Minnesota, and is the proud mother of her son, Samuel Jacobs. Bukola spent several years as a journalist in Nigeria, particularly focusing on education. Her dedication to the field led her to make significant contributions before she made her way to the United States.
Ana María Martínez Sagi was a Spanish poet, trade unionist, journalist, feminist, and athlete. She made significant contributions to various fields throughout her life. Born into a privileged family in Barcelona, she excelled in sports, becoming a national champion in javelin. Martínez Sagi also broke new ground in football, becoming the first female director of FC Barcelona. As a journalist, she advocated for social change and women’s suffrage, and her firsthand accounts during the Spanish Civil War gave a voice to the marginalized. Martínez Sagi’s resilience, determination, and commitment to social justice make her a remarkable figure in women’s history.
Lubna Ahmed al-Hussein is a Sudanese Muslim activist and journalist who gained international recognition in 2009 when she was prosecuted for wearing trousers. She used her platform to criticize the government of Sudan for its treatment of women and became a symbol of the ongoing struggle for women’s rights in the country. Her courageous stand inspired many and earned her the International Women’s Media Foundation’s Courage in Journalism Award.
Zaib-un-Nissa Hamidullah, born in Calcutta on December 25, 1918, was a pioneering Pakistani writer and journalist. She became Pakistan’s first female editor, publisher, and columnist in English, playing a significant role in shaping Pakistani literature and journalism. She founded Pakistan’s first social glossy magazine, the Mirror, and her work extended beyond borders, breaking barriers for women in journalism. Her legacy lives on through the women who followed in her footsteps, redefining the role of women in Pakistani journalism.
Polina Zherebtsova, a prominent Chechen Russian documentarian, poet, and author, offers a unique and intimate perspective on the three Chechen wars through her widely acclaimed diaries, “Ant in a Glass Jar.” Her exceptional talent has been recognized through prestigious awards, including the Janusz Korczak International Prize and the Andrei Sakharov Award. Despite challenges and threats to her safety, Zherebtsova remains committed to truth and justice, seeking political asylum in Finland in 2013. Her impactful works have been translated into multiple languages and she continues to amplify her storytelling through interviews and literary festivals.
Ghislaine Dupont, a French journalist, dedicated her career to investigative journalism, specializing in African issues. Her work covered a wide range of topics and conflicts, and she was known for her in-depth reporting on the continent’s challenges. Tragically, she was abducted and killed in Mali in 2013, highlighting the dangers faced by reporters in conflict zones. Dupont’s legacy lives on through scholarships and awards in her name.
Emma ʻAʻima Aʻii Nāwahī (1854-1935) was a Native Hawaiian political activist and newspaper publisher who played a significant role in opposing the overthrow of the Kingdom of Hawaiʻi and the annexation of Hawaiʻi to the United States. She co-founded the Hawaiian language newspaper, Ke Aloha Aina, and later became a supporter of women’s suffrage. Emma Nāwahī’s activism and dedication to Hawaiian sovereignty and women’s rights continue to inspire and shape the history of Hawaiʻi.
Natalie Morales-Rhodes is an accomplished American journalist who has made a significant impact in the world of broadcasting. Born on June 6, 1972, in Taiwan, she has spent over two decades in the field, working for major news networks and becoming a familiar face in American households.
Andreea Mădălina Răducan, a retired gymnast from Bârlad, Romania, was known for her difficult repertoire of skills and graceful dance. She played a crucial role in the Romanian team’s gold medal victory at the 2000 Sydney Olympics and emerged as the original winner in the all-around competition. Although controversy surrounded her victory due to a failed doping control, Răducan was eventually exonerated of any personal wrongdoing. She went on to win more medals before retiring and transitioning to a successful career as a sports announcer and journalist. Her resilience and impact on women’s gymnastics are undeniable.