The International Press Institute (IPI), a global organization dedicated to promoting press freedom and safeguarding independent journalism, marked International Women’s Day 2024 by celebrating a cadre of exceptional women media leaders who have significantly contributed to the field. These women, hailing from diverse corners of the world, represent a spectrum of journalistic endeavors, from academia and investigative reporting to documentary filmmaking and media leadership. Their accomplishments highlight the crucial role women play in shaping the media landscape and advocating for the freedom of the press, particularly in an era marked by increasing challenges to independent media.
Among the honorees was Professor Abigail Ogwezzy-Ndisika of the University of Lagos, Nigeria. A distinguished academic in journalism and mass communication, Professor Ogwezzy-Ndisika achieved a historic milestone as the first woman and first alumnus to lead the Department of Mass Communication at UNILAG. Her leadership in academia underscores the importance of fostering the next generation of journalists and media professionals, equipping them with the skills and ethical foundations essential for navigating the evolving media landscape.
The IPI’s recognition extended beyond contemporary figures to acknowledge the contributions of historical figures like Oveta Culp Hobby, a founding member of the organization. Hobby, a trailblazing figure in American media, served as the first director of the Women’s Army Corps and later became the first secretary of the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare. Her inclusion in the list served as a powerful reminder of the enduring legacy of women who have championed press freedom and shaped the media landscape for decades.
The list of honorees also featured a diverse array of contemporary journalists, documentary filmmakers, and media leaders from across the globe. Among them were Mzia Amaglobeli from Georgia, Alessia Cerantola from Italy, Anuška Delić from Slovenia, and Solafa Magdy from Egypt. These women represent the front lines of journalism, often working in challenging and precarious environments to report on critical issues and hold power to account. Their inclusion highlights the global nature of the fight for press freedom and the courage required to pursue truth and transparency in the face of adversity.
Further extending its reach, the IPI acknowledged the contributions of Joanna Krawczyk, an independent documentary filmmaker and television producer based in Germany, and Priya Thuvassery, whose work exemplifies the power of visual storytelling and investigative journalism. They were joined by a group of inspiring journalists from across the globe, including Juliana Mori from Brazil, Etaf Roudan from Jordan, Isabela Ponce from Ecuador, Raisa Wickrematunge from Sri Lanka, and Alina Manrique Cedeño from Ecuador. These women represent diverse regions and journalistic styles, reflecting the global and multifaceted nature of the media landscape.
The IPI’s celebration of these exceptional women coincided with the organization’s 75th anniversary, underscoring the long-standing commitment to advocating for press freedom and supporting independent journalism worldwide. The honorees, both past and present, represent a vital thread in the fabric of the IPI’s global network. Their stories serve as an inspiration to aspiring journalists and a testament to the enduring power of a free press in holding power accountable and fostering informed and engaged societies. The IPI’s recognition of these women serves not only as a celebration of their individual achievements but also as a call to action to continue supporting and defending press freedom around the world.
