Secretary of State Marco Rubio and First Lady Melania Trump are set to host the International Women of Courage (IWOC) Awards on April 1, 2025, at the Department of State. The ceremony will be open to pre-registered media and streamed live on the Department's homepage and YouTube channel. Media registration is required by March 31.
The IWOC Award, now in its 19th year, highlights women who demonstrate exceptional courage, strength, and leadership. Since its inception in 2007, more than 200 women from over 90 countries have been honored. U.S. diplomatic missions overseas nominate women, with finalists selected by senior Department officials. After the ceremony, awardees will participate in the International Visitor Leadership Program and other programming in Los Angeles.
This year's awardees include:
- Henriette Da from Burkina Faso, a sociologist and human rights defender, focusing on women’s rights and development.
- Amit Soussana of Israel, who advocates for survivors and raises awareness of hostage conditions under Hamas.
- Major Velena Iga from Papua New Guinea, involved in combating violence against women and human trafficking.
- Angelique Songco from the Philippines, known for her efforts in protecting the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park.
- Georgiana Pascu from Romania, dedicated to promoting rights for institutionalized children and adults with disabilities.
- Zabib Musa Loro Bakhit of South Sudan, a leader in women’s rights with experience in post-conflict settings.
- Namini Wijedasa from Sri Lanka, an investigative journalist focused on combating corruption.
- Amat Al-Salam Al-Hajj from Yemen, advocating for Yemeni detainees and their families.
Additionally, the "Women Student Protest Leaders of Bangladesh" have been recognized with the Madeleine Albright Honorary Group Award for their role in the July-August 2024 student protests.
For media inquiries or to request interviews with the awardees, contact MediaRequests@state.gov or StateGWI@state.gov. Social media updates can be followed using #IWOC2025 and #WomenOfCourage.