On International Women’s Day, we honor the extraordinary accomplishments of women who defy limitations, lead with unwavering passion and continually reshape the very notion of success. Here, we spotlight a small selection of the countless Lebanese changemakers whose contributions across diverse fields stand as a testament to their resilience, creativity and determination.

1. May El Khalil (Sports)

May El Khalil is a true pioneer in the world of sports, particularly in Lebanon’s running community. As the founder of the Beirut Marathon, she has dedicated her career to promoting health and fitness, inspiring people across the country to embrace sports as a way of life. May’s journey is not just about physical endurance, but also about overcoming adversity and breaking down the barriers that often prevent women from excelling in athletics. Her passion for empowering others makes her a trailblazer in sports.

Read our article on the Beirut Marathon here.

2. Laura Lahoud (Tourism)

Laura Lahoud’s dedication to Lebanese culture and the arts is unmatched. As the organizer of the renowned Al Bustan Festival, she has played a pivotal role in elevating Lebanon’s cultural scene by bringing global and regional artists together, creating a platform for creative exchange. Her work has made the arts more accessible to a wider audience and empowered women to take leadership roles in cultural projects. Recently appointed as Lebanon’s Minister of Tourism, Laura’s influence has expanded, and she continues to champion Lebanon’s artistic and cultural legacy on a global scale, ensuring that Lebanon remains a beacon of creativity and cultural richness.

Read our article on this year’s Al Bustan Festival here.

3. Yasmina Hayek (Food)

Chef Yasmina Hayek, the visionary behind Em Sherif, recently received recognition as the MENA’s Best Female Chef at World’s 50 Best Restaurants awards. Her award-winning restaurant, renowned for its authentic yet innovative Lebanese cuisine, was named one of the top spots in the region, solidifying her place as a leader in the culinary world. As a trailblazer in a male-dominated industry, Yasmina inspires women everywhere, proving that dedication, creativity and perseverance can break barriers.

Photo by Daniele Venturelli/WireImage

4. Nadine Labaki (Filmmaking)

Academy Award-nominated filmmaker Nadine Labaki is one of Lebanon’s most influential figures in cinema. With films like “Caramel” and “Capernaum,” Nadine has captivated audiences worldwide, shedding light on social issues while delivering powerful and emotive storytelling. Her work tackles pressing themes such as gender inequality, poverty and the struggles of displaced communities, often focusing on marginalized groups whose voices are rarely heard. Nadine’s films have not only earned critical acclaim but also sparked important conversations on both regional and global stages.

Read our interview with Nadine Labaki here.

5. Mariana Wehbe (Public Relations)

Mariana Wehbe is a PR powerhouse, with over two decades of experience transforming brands and shaping public perception. As the founder of a leading PR agency, her strategic vision has helped countless individuals and businesses elevate their profiles. In addition, she is the founder of We Design Beirut, a biannual event that showcases the best of Lebanon’s creative industries and the country’s rising talents. Mariana’s expertise extends globally. She is a symbol of determination and resilience.

6. Nada Debs (Design)

Nada Debs is a renowned designer known for beautifully blending modernity with Lebanese craftsmanship. With her distinctive furniture and exceptional design pieces at Studio Nada Debs, she has become a global influence in the design industry. Her work seamlessly fuses cultural heritage with contemporary style, creating timeless pieces. A champion of sustainable design and innovation, Nada continues to redefine the intersection of tradition and modernity, leaving a lasting impact on the design world.

Read our interview with Nada Debs here.

7. Zeina Daccache (Theater)

Zeina Daccache is an actress, director and social activist who has used the performing arts as a platform for change. With her powerful productions that focus on social issues like human rights and women’s empowerment, Zeina has brought attention to critical causes in Lebanon. Her unwavering commitment to storytelling as a tool for social justice has earned her international recognition, making her an influential figure in the Lebanese theater scene.

Read our interview with Zeina Daccache here.

8. Sarah Beydoun (Fashion)

Sarah Beydoun is the founder of Sarah’s Bag, a brand renowned for its bold, colorful handbags that celebrate Lebanese artistry. Beyond fashion, Sarah’s Bag empowers marginalized women by providing them with skills and employment, offering a path to financial independence. Combining creativity with social impact, Sarah has established a platform for change, earning international recognition for both her unique designs and her commitment to empowering women.

Read our interview with Sarah Beydoun here.

9. Maya Ibrahimchah (Philanthropy)

Maya Ibrahimchah is a passionate philanthropist and social entrepreneur, known for her work with Beit El Baraka, a non-profit focused on improving the lives of Lebanon’s vulnerable communities, especially retirees. Through the organization, she provides support for housing, education and medical assistance, empowering marginalized individuals to build a better future. Maya’s dedication to social change and her efforts to uplift those in need have made her an inspiring figure in Lebanon’s philanthropic landscape.

Read our article on Beit Kanz, a project by Beit El Baraka, here.

10. Huda Baroudi and Maria Hibri (Design)

Huda Baroudi and Maria Hibri are two dynamic designers whose company, Bokja, has become a symbol of creativity, authenticity and sustainability. Through their innovative approach to reimagining traditional Lebanese craftsmanship, the duo has breathed new life into the world of furniture design. Huda and Maria’s success highlights the power of collaboration, staying true to one’s roots and the ability to create meaningful, timeless designs that resonate on both a local and global scale.

Read our interview with the women behind Bokja here.

11. Captain Rola Hoteit (Aviation)

Captain Rola Hoteit is an inspiring force who has shattered barriers in the world of aviation. As the first Lebanese female airline captain to ever work for Middle East Airlines — flying the Airbus 320 and Airbus 330 — she has become a symbol of perseverance, breaking through societal norms and demonstrating that ambition knows no gender. Her dedication, skill and leadership in the skies serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of resilience and following one’s passion, no matter the obstacles.

Read our interview with Captain Rola Hoteit here.

12. Sarah Hermez (Entrepreneurship)

Sarah Hermez is a visionary who founded Creative Space Beirut, Lebanon’s first free fashion school, creating a space for young people to learn and grow in the fashion industry. Her school offers free education and training to aspiring designers and is helping to shape the future of Lebanon’s fashion industry. Sarah’s work is an inspiration to all entrepreneurs, showing that it’s possible to combine passion for fashion with a desire to give back to the community.

Read our interview with Sarah Hermez here.

If you liked reading this, check our article of the women behind the Al Bustan Festival.