WASHINGTON — Emphasizing the profound connection between courage and love, Melania Trump highlighted the bravery of eight remarkable women during the International Women of Courage Award ceremony on Tuesday. Among the honorees was an Israeli woman, a former hostage who endured close to two months in the clutches of Hamas following their violent incursion in Israel in October 2023.
“The extraordinary courage of these women illuminates the transformative power of love, encouraging us to foster a world shaped by justice,” Melania Trump stated during her speech at the State Department’s event. The awards, launched to honor such notable acts of bravery, have become a beacon of recognition for exceptional women worldwide. “The path these women have traversed underscores that real courage is deeply rooted in a profound commitment to others.” The First Lady’s address marked her fifth participation in the awards, having attended annually during Donald Trump’s presidency.
Defining courage as a “strength that is founded in love,” Trump drew parallels between her personal experiences and those of the awardees, acknowledging that love has been a powerful source of resilience for her during trying times. “Love has inspired me to embrace forgiveness, nurture empathy, and remain brave in the face of unforeseen challenges,” she shared.
Melania Trump recognized Romanian recipient Georgiana Pascu for exemplifying “love in action.” Pascu tirelessly advocates for the rights of institutionalized children and adults with psychosocial and intellectual disabilities, as noted by the State Department. “Georgiana is a ‘watchdog’ who defends the dignity of Romanians whose voices cannot be heard,” Trump commented, highlighting Pascu’s fearless efforts in protecting those trapped in unfavorable care environments.
Due to Pascu’s vigilant work, numerous offenders have faced charges related to human trafficking and exploitation. Another compelling story was shared by Israeli lawyer Amit Soussana, who publicly recounted her harrowing experience of sexual assault during her captivity by Hamas. On this occasion, she made an impassioned plea for the freedom of remaining hostages.
“My friends remain in the dark,” she expressed, referring to those held captive for over 540 days, “Their suffering deepens with each passing day, as does their longing for freedom.” She urged immediate action to liberate those held against their will.
The other award recipients included Henriette Da from Burkina Faso, a staunch advocate for human rights, and Major Velena Iga from Papua New Guinea, known for her work against violence directed at women and trafficking. Angelique Songco from the Philippines, or “Mama Ranger,” stands out for her leadership against illegal fishing and poaching in Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park.
Further honorees include Zabib Musa Loro Bakhit, a women’s rights leader from South Sudan; Namini Wijedasa, an investigative journalist from Sri Lanka; and Amat Al-Salam Al-Hajj, a Yemeni advocate raising global awareness about the plights of abductees in Yemen.
A special group award was bestowed in memory of Madeleine Albright, the former secretary of state, celebrating female student leaders who bravely protested violent repression in Bangladesh during the mid-2024 demonstrations.
Now in its 19th installment, the International Women of Courage Awards commend women who exhibit unparalleled bravery, resilience, and leadership, often at tremendous personal risk. Since its inception in 2007, the awards have honored over 200 women from more than 90 countries.