Hadiqa Kiani named among 100 most inspiring women of 2024

The British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) named two prominent Pakistani women, Hadiqa Kiani and Mahrang Baloch, in its list of '100 Women for 2024'.

The list celebrates those who have made significant contributions across various fields, amidst a year marked by conflict, humanitarian crises, and climate emergencies.

Internationally renowned Pakistani singer and songwriter Hadiqa Kiani, who rose to fame in the 1990s, has long been recognised for her humanitarian efforts, particularly her work in response to the devastating 2022 floods in Pakistan.

Through her Vaseela-e-Raah project, Kiani provided aid to flood victims in Balochistan and South Punjab, building 370 homes and facilities in affected regions. She has also been an advocate for displaced families, urging the public to contribute to relief efforts.

Alongside Kiani, Mahrang Baloch, a medical doctor and political activist, has gained national and international recognition for her tireless efforts to highlight the issue of enforced disappearances in Pakistan’s Balochistan province.

In 2023, Baloch led a 1,600-kilometre march to Islamabad, demanding answers regarding the whereabouts of her family members and other missing persons. She was arrested twice during the protest.

The BBC noted her emergence as a prominent human rights advocate, founding the Baloch Yakjehti (Unity) Committee. Baloch's activism was further recognised in the 'TIME100 Next 2024' list, which honoured emerging global leaders.

The BBC’s list features women who have faced immense challenges, from the ongoing conflicts in Gaza, Ukraine, and Sudan to the polarisation in societies worldwide. The list also highlights the work of climate pioneers working to mitigate the impact of the climate crisis.

Other notable figures on the BBC list include astronaut Sunita Williams, Olympic athletes Rebeca Andrade and Allyson Felix, actress Sharon Stone, and Nobel Peace Prize laureate Nadia Murad.