Honoring the Inspiring Leaders of the 2023 International Women of Courage Award
On Wednesday, March 8, at 2:00 p.m. EST, the White House will host the annual International Women of Courage (IWOC) Awards ceremony, which will be presided over by Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken and First Lady Jill Biden. This invite-only ceremony will honor a distinguished group of 11 remarkable women from around the world who have dedicated themselves to building a brighter future for all.
The 2023 IWOC Award ceremony, now in its 17th year, recognizes women who have shown exceptional courage, strength, and leadership in advocating for peace, justice, human rights, gender equity and equality, and the empowerment of women and girls. These extraordinary women have often faced personal risk and sacrifice in their tireless efforts to make a positive impact on society. Since March 2007, the Department of State has honored over 180 women from more than 80 countries with the IWOC Award.
The ceremony will be attended by pooled press coverage and can also be watched via live stream on whitehouse.gov/live and state.gov. This provides an opportunity for people around the world to witness the celebration and learn about the incredible achievements of these inspiring women.
Following the IWOC ceremony, the awardees will participate in an in-person International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) exchange, where they will engage with American counterparts in various cities across the United States. This exchange aims to strengthen their global networks of women leaders and further empower them to make a difference in their respective communities.
Now, let’s introduce the exceptional 2023 IWOC awardees:
- Dr. Zakira Hekmat – Afghanistan (residing in Türkiye)
- Ms. Alba Rueda – Argentina
- Professor Danièle Darlan – Central African Republic
- Ms. Doris Ríos – Costa Rica
- Meaza Mohammed – Ethiopia
- Ms. Hadeel Abdel Aziz – Jordan
- Bakhytzhan Toregozhina – Kazakhstan
- Senator Datuk Ras Adiba Radzi – Malaysia
- Brigadier General Bolor Ganbold – Mongolia
- Mrs. Bianka Zalewska – Poland
- Mrs. Yuliia Paievska – Ukraine
In addition to these remarkable individuals, a special honorary group award will be presented to the Women and Girl Protestors of Iran, recognizing their bravery and determination in standing up against state-sponsored violence and fighting for the rights of women in Iran. The protests were sparked by the tragic death of Mahsa (Zhina) Amini, which led to a widespread movement demanding change and equality.
The International Women of Courage Awards ceremony serves as a powerful reminder of the indomitable spirit and resilience of women worldwide, and their unwavering commitment to creating a better future for all.
