From Pakistani pop icon to BBC 100 Women

Hadiqa Kiani recognised for work during 2022 floods

The BBC's annual 100 Women list for 2024 has honoured Pakistani singer, songwriter, and philanthropist Hadiqa Kiani, recognising her significant contributions to humanitarian work in her home country.

Kiani, who first rose to fame in the 1990s as a pioneer of South Asian female pop music, has long been a household name in Pakistan. Her distinctive voice and genre-defying music earned her accolades and a devoted fan base across the region. However, in recent years, Kiani has channelled her influence into humanitarian work, emerging as a compassionate leader during one of Pakistan's most challenging periods.

"In response to the devastating 2022 floods in Pakistan, Kiani launched her Vaseelae Raah project, dedicated to aiding victims in the regions of Balochistan and South Punjab," the BBC noted. The floods, which displaced millions and left entire communities in ruins, prompted an outpouring of local and international aid. Yet, Kiani's hands-on approach set her apart.

Through Vaseelae Raah, she not only raised awareness but also mobilised resources to provide long-term relief. By 2023, the project had built 370 homes, along with schools and healthcare facilities, offering a lifeline to hundreds of displaced families. Her efforts earned widespread acclaim, underscoring her commitment to social causes beyond her musical career. "She urged the public to assist displaced families," the BBC highlighted, emphasising her role as both a public figure and an activist.

Mahrang Baloch's activism was also recognised. Baloch, a medical doctor, gained prominence for leading protests against enforced disappearances in Balochistan, a province long plagued by conflict and insurgency. Her 1,600-kilometre march to Islamabad in 2023 drew national attention, and she has since become a leading voice for human rights through her Baloch Yakjehti (Unity) Committee.

100 Women is a BBC multi-format series established in 2013. The annual series examines the role of women in the 21st century and has included events in London and Mexico. Announcement of the list is the start of an international BBC's women season, lasting three weeks including broadcast, online reports, debates and journalism on the topic of women.

This year's BBC 100 Women list acknowledges the resilience of women worldwide, from those advocating for human rights in conflict zones to pioneers tackling the climate crisis. Alongside these women stand global icons like the recently stranded in space astronaut Sunita Williams, actor Sharon Stone and British Ghanaian singer-songwriter Raye.