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IWMF's 2025 Courage in Journalism Awards

The International Women's Media Foundation (IWMF) has recently announced the recipients of its 2025 Courage in Journalism Awards, celebrating the remarkable achievements of female journalists who have bravely reported under perilous conditions to bring the truth to light. The awards are a testament to the courage and resilience of women involved in media, especially considering the drastic decline in press freedom globally.

This year’s honorees include Sana Atef from Afghanistan, Juliana Dal Piva from Brazil, Yousra Elbagir from the United Kingdom and Sudan, and Maritza L. Félix from the United States and Mexico. Each of these women has faced significant threats in their pursuit of truthful reporting, earning them recognition for their unwavering commitment to journalism.

Among them, Aynur Elgunesh, the editor-in-chief of Meydan TV in Azerbaijan, received the prestigious Wallis Annenberg Justice for Women Journalists Award. This particular award highlights the struggles faced by journalists who endure unjust imprisonment. Elgunesh has been jailed on fabricated charges and suffers life-threatening conditions, embodying the personal sacrifices some women journalists face today.

Profiles of the Courage Award Winners

Sana Atef (Afghanistan) - Zan Times

Sana Atef reports under a pseudonym, focusing on dire social issues like the harassment of women and child marriages in Taliban-controlled Afghanistan. Her commitment to giving a voice to the voiceless through her reporting is a powerful act of defiance against the oppressive regime. She stated, “Our existence becomes an act of resistance,” underscoring the importance of media freedom in achieving justice and peace.

Juliana Dal Piva (Brazil) - Latin American Center for Journalistic Investigation

Dal Piva, known for her investigative work surrounding human rights violations, has earned acclaim for her bold reports on the Bolsonaro family's alleged corruption. Her extensive research into historical crimes is creating a vital dialogue within Brazilian society about accountability. She emphasizes that journalism should promote knowledge and democratic values.

Yousra Elbagir (United Kingdom/Sudan) - Sky News

Elbagir has made a name for herself as one of Africa’s leading journalists, reporting on critical issues from civil unrest to natural disasters. Her reporting from war zones in Sudan illustrates the grave humanitarian crises often overlooked by mainstream media. She expresses that sharing the truth in a polarized world is paramount for public service journalism.

Maritza L. Félix (United States/Mexico) - Conecta Arizona

As the founder of Conecta Arizona, Félix has significantly impacted local communities by providing essential news on immigration and social issues. Through her expansive media projects, she connects cross-border populations and amplifies the narratives of migrants. She believes in the power of local stories to shape narratives and confront misinformation.

Aynur Elgunesh (Azerbaijan) - Meydan TV

Elgunesh's ailment remains unconfined, having been thrust into prison under dire circumstances. Her dedication to covering political repression and social justice in Azerbaijan positions her work as a formidable resistance against governmental oppression. Even within prison walls, her voice as a journalist perseveres, and she views her acknowledgement as a beacon of hope for many other journalists facing adversity.

Conclusion

The IWMF Courage in Journalism Awards highlight the essential role of women journalists in defending democracy and ensuring the public is well-informed. As these women continue to confront threats, their global recognition is not only a celebration of their bravery but also a call to action for media freedom around the world. The awards ceremony is set to take place across various locations, including New York City, Washington D.C., and Los Angeles, further shining a light on the paramount work done by journalists in today’s increasingly challenging environments.