Sonita Alizadeh ’23 Named 2025 Cannes LionHeart
Sonita Alizadeh ’23, Bard College alumna and human rights activist, has been announced as the 2025 Cannes LionHeart by the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity. The honor is awarded to a recipient who harnesses their position to make a positive difference to the world, and Alizadeh has used her platforms as the first professional Afghan rapper, an activist, and an author to fight child marriage and gender injustice and be a global voice for women’s rights. “Sonita’s journey is an inspirational story of resilience and courage,” said Philip Thomas, chair of Cannes Lions. “Through her music and her activism, she has used her voice and her platform to challenge oppression and inspire the next generation.”
Born under Taliban rule, Alizadeh faced the threat of child marriage twice, at ages 10 and 16, before finding her voice through music. She has since performed on global stages and collaborated with artists and organisations that share her mission, and has addressed world leaders and worked with NGOs such as the UN, Human Rights Watch, and Amnesty International to push for change. “Being awarded the Cannes LionHeart is more than an honor—it’s a powerful affirmation that using my voice to fight for girls' rights and freedom matters,” said Alizadeh. “This award reflects the journey from silence to sound, from being sold to standing on the world stage. It reminds me that no dream is too wild when it’s rooted in truth, courage, and purpose.”
Post Date: 05-06-2025
Born under Taliban rule, Alizadeh faced the threat of child marriage twice, at ages 10 and 16, before finding her voice through music. She has since performed on global stages and collaborated with artists and organisations that share her mission, and has addressed world leaders and worked with NGOs such as the UN, Human Rights Watch, and Amnesty International to push for change. “Being awarded the Cannes LionHeart is more than an honor—it’s a powerful affirmation that using my voice to fight for girls' rights and freedom matters,” said Alizadeh. “This award reflects the journey from silence to sound, from being sold to standing on the world stage. It reminds me that no dream is too wild when it’s rooted in truth, courage, and purpose.”
Post Date: 05-06-2025