’RISE’ by Maliha Abidi: Celebrating the Extraordinary Women of Colour Who Changed the World

London based Pakistani-American artist and author Maliha Abidi has released RISE, a compendium of stories and illustrations of 100 remarkable women of colour who strive to create a better world. In today’s reality, the experiences and lives of women of colour are often diminished. The Fawcett Society United Kingdom reports that 75 percent of women of colour have experienced racism at work. Meanwhile, in the United States, The Brookings Institution cites that while white women make 79 cents for every dollar a man makes, black women make 64 cents and latinas trail behind at 54 cents.

Portrait of Esther Mahlangu by Maliha Abidi, part of RISE. Image courtesy of Maliha Abidi’s website.

This is why initiatives such as RISE by Maliha Abidi helps the general public to see just what women of colour can achieve when they are supported by the right tools and resources to thrive. At the same time, RISE also helps to highlight the accomplishments of these women of colour for other women of colour, to inspire them to continue pursuing their passions and caling. This is why RISE by Maliha Abidi is aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal of Gender Equality.

Portrait of Aisholpan Nurgaiv by Maliha Abidi, part of RISE. Image courtesy of Maliha Abidi’s website.

RISE features a wide range of stories of women of colour from all corners of the world. Aside from success stories, RISE also includes stories of tragedy and fallen heroes who died fighting for the causes they believed in. These stories include the empowering life of 13-year-old Aisholpan Nurgaiv, the first ever female to take part in the male dominated and highly competitive Golden Eagle, eagle hunting festival in Ölgii, Mongolia. The tragic story of Berta Cáceres also takes centre stage, chronicling how the Honduran Indigenous and environmental leader was shot to death in 2016 for opposing the construction of an internationally financed dam.

Portrait of Berta Cáceres by Maliha Abidi, part of RISE. Image courtesy of Maliha Abidi’s website.

Maliha Abidi's RISE is a powerful celebration of the achievements of 100 extraordinary women of color from around the world, offering a much-needed spotlight on their contributions to society. Through vibrant illustrations and compelling stories, RISE challenges the systemic barriers that women of color face and showcases their resilience and accomplishments. It not only educates the broader public but also serves as an inspiring beacon for women of color everywhere, encouraging them to pursue their dreams despite adversity. This work highlights the importance of empowering marginalized voices for a more equitable future.

Find out more about RISE and other initiatives by Maliha Abidi on their website www.malihaabidi.com or Instagram @maliha_z_art.