International Women of Courage Awards Ceremony
On Tuesday, April 1, at 1:00 p.m. EDT, Secretary of State Marco Rubio and First Lady Melania Trump will preside over the annual International Women of Courage (IWOC) Awards ceremony hosted at the Department of State. This prestigious event celebrates remarkable women from across the globe who embody extraordinary courage, strength, and leadership, often at significant personal risk.
Media Participation and Streaming
The ceremony is accessible to pre-registered media and will be streamed live on the Department’s homepage and the Department YouTube channel. Media representatives wishing to cover the event are required to register by 12:00 p.m. EDT on March 31.
19 Years of Honoring Courageous Women
In its 19th year, the IWOC Award has recognized over 200 women from more than 90 countries since its inception in 2007. U.S. diplomatic missions nominate exceptional women of courage from their respective host nations, with finalists selected and endorsed by senior Department officials. Awardees will partake in the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) and participate in related events in Los Angeles following the ceremony.
This Year’s Honorees
Henriette Da – Burkina Faso
Henriette Da is a prominent human rights defender, sociologist, and trailblazer for women’s rights and development in Burkina Faso. As the President of the National Human Rights Commission since 2018, she advocates fiercely for the rights of her fellow citizens.
Amit Soussana – Israel
Amit Soussana is an attorney and advocate for hostages following the October 7th attack in Israel. Using her personal experience as a hostage, she raises awareness about the plight of those remaining under Hamas control.
Major Velena Iga – Papua New Guinea
With over a decade of dedication to combating violence against women and human trafficking, Major Velena Iga has initiated vital support services, such as the “1-Tok” hotline, transforming the legal and social landscape of Papua New Guinea for at-risk populations.
Angelique Songco – Philippines
As “Mama Ranger,” Angelique Songco leads the charge in protecting the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, a crucial marine ecosystem, reducing illegal activities significantly through her empowered leadership.
Georgiana Pascu – Romania
Georgiana Pascu is dedicated to advocating for the rights of institutionalized individuals with disabilities in Romania. Her tireless work has guaranteed safety and dignity for thousands over her remarkable 25-year career.
Zabib Musa Loro Bakhit – South Sudan
With over ten years of experience in women’s rights advocacy, Zabib Musa Loro Bakhit serves as the Executive Director of Women for Justice and Equality, leading grassroots efforts in Women’s Peace and Security initiatives across South Sudan.
Namini Wijedasa – Sri Lanka
Namini Wijedasa is an award-winning journalist whose fearless reporting spurs accountability and transparency. Despite challenges, she emphasizes the role of journalists in demanding change and fostering dialogue on governance and prosperity in Sri Lanka.
Amat Al-Salam Al-Hajj – Yemen
Amat Al-Salam Al-Hajj, founder of the Abductees’ Mothers Association, tirelessly advocates for the families of Yemeni detainees, documenting abductions and demanding accountability from those involved in the conflict.
Madeleine Albright Honorary Group Award
The “Women Student Protest Leaders of Bangladesh” are recognized for their heroic efforts in leading the student protest movement against violent repression in 2024, showcasing extraordinary bravery and resourcefulness in dire circumstances.
Media Inquiries
For interview requests with awardees, media outlets should reach out to MediaRequests@state.gov and StateGWI@state.gov. Follow the event on social media with the hashtags #IWOC2025 and #WomenOfCourage for updates. For inquiries related to the IWOC, please contact the Secretary’s Office of Global Women’s Issues at StateGWI@state.gov. For IVLP inquiries, direct requests to ECA-Press@state.gov.
