UNICEF Raipur Celebrates International Women’s Day with Leading Women Journalists

Raipur, March 8, 2024 — On the occasion of International Women’s Day, UNICEF Raipur hosted a remarkable event that brought together leading women journalists from the vibrant city of Raipur. The objective was to foster dialogue, gain insights, and celebrate the remarkable contributions of these trailblazing women in the field of journalism.

The event, facilitated by UNICEF, was marked by engaging conversations that delved into the life journeys of journalists. Accomplished women shared their experiences, challenges, and triumphs in an open dialogue, linking their personal narratives to prevailing social norms. By exploring the intersection of their stories with broader societal contexts, the event highlighted the power of storytelling in shaping perceptions and challenging stereotypes and deep-rooted social norms.

UNICEF took this opportunity to honor the unwavering commitment and leadership of several outstanding journalists. The following journalists were felicitated for their exceptional work:

Priyanka Kaushal(Bharat Express): A fearless investigative journalist who has fearlessly exposed corruption and social injustices.

Rajni Thakur(The Better India): A passionate advocate for women's rights, hailing from a humble background, whose reporting has shed light on critical issues affecting marginalized communities.

Mamta Lanjewar(News 18, CG/MP): A dedicated journalist who has amplified the voices of rural women, bringing their stories to the forefront.

Mamta Manker(Dainik Bhaskar): An inspiring storyteller who has used her platform to raise awareness about gender-based violence.

Ayushi Sharma(Times of Ok India): A rising star in the field, Ayushi’s reporting has challenged stereotypes and sparked important conversations around health and health behaviours.

Swati Kaushik(Lokmat): A seasoned journalist who has consistently championed gender equality and social justice.

Emphasizing Gender Inclusion

During the felicitation ceremony, Job Zachariah, UNICEF’s Chief of Field Office in Raipur, underscored the importance of empathy and understanding in addressing gender-related issues. He stated, “We must be empathetic listeners, amplifying the voices of women and girls. By promoting inclusion and breaking down barriers, we create a more equitable world.”

UNICEF remains committed to advancing gender equality, and events like this serve as powerful reminders of the transformative impact that women journalists can have. As we celebrate International Women’s Day, let us continue to amplify their voices, challenge norms, and work collectively toward a more just and equal society.