Hadiqa Kiani and Maharang Baloch Among BBC’s ‘100 Women for 2024’

The British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) unveiled its prestigious list of 100 Women for 2024 on Tuesday, celebrating inspiring and influential women from around the globe. Among them, two remarkable women from Pakistan, singer-songwriter Hadiqa Kiani and medical doctor-turned-activist Maharang Baloch, were honored for their impactful contributions to society.

Kiani and Baloch joined a diverse group of extraordinary individuals, including astronaut Sunita Williams, Nobel Peace Prize laureate Nadia Murad, and rape survivor Gisèle Pelicot.

Hadiqa Kiani: A Voice Beyond Music

Hadiqa Kiani, a household name in Pakistan’s music scene since the 1990s, rose to fame for her versatile voice and groundbreaking contributions to South Asian female pop music. However, her influence extends beyond the world of music.

Kiani is also a dedicated humanitarian and serves as a United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) goodwill ambassador. Following the catastrophic 2022 floods in Pakistan, she launched the Vaseela-e-Raah project to assist displaced communities in Balochistan and South Punjab.

Through this initiative, Kiani appealed for public support and spearheaded efforts to rebuild lives. By 2023, the project had successfully constructed 370 homes and other facilities in flood-affected areas, earning her widespread admiration.

Maharang Baloch: A Voice for Justice

Maharang Baloch, a medical doctor, emerged as a fearless human rights activist in Pakistan. In late 2023, she gained prominence for leading a 1,600km march from Balochistan to Islamabad, joined by hundreds of women demanding information about their missing loved ones, allegedly victims of enforced disappearances.

Despite facing arrests during her journey, Baloch’s determination inspired many, and she continues to champion the cause under her organization, the Baloch Yakjehti (Unity) Committee (BYC). Her relentless advocacy earned her a spot on TIME’s 100 Next 2024 list of emerging leaders in human rights.

Global Recognition for Pakistan’s Women

The inclusion of Kiani and Baloch in the BBC’s 100 Women for 2024 highlights their resilience, creativity, and dedication to uplifting their communities. Their stories serve as a testament to the power of women’s voices in driving social change and inspiring future generations.