Hana Elhebshi

Hana Elhebshi, born in nineteen eighty-five, is a prominent Libyan architect and activist known for her courageous efforts during the Libyan revolution. Working as an architect in Tripoli, she was thrust into the spotlight as a cyberactivist, documenting the siege of her city and advocating for the rights of her fellow citizens.

Despite her previous lack of political engagement, Elhebshi became a vital voice against the oppressive regime of Muammar Gaddafi. Under the pseudonym 'Numidia,' a nod to her Berber heritage, she reported on the atrocities occurring in Libya, including the tragic loss of life, and provided critical information to international news organizations like Al Jazeera.

Her activism extended beyond mere reporting; she actively campaigned for women's rights in Libya, striving to highlight the struggles faced by women in her country. In recognition of her bravery and dedication, Elhebshi was awarded the International Women of Courage award in two thousand twelve, an honor she shared with nine other remarkable women at a ceremony hosted by the U.S. Department of State.

The award ceremony, attended by notable figures such as Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and First Lady Michelle Obama, was followed by a three-week tour across the United States. During this tour, Elhebshi shared her powerful story and the realities of life in Libya, making a lasting impact on audiences in cities like Pittsburgh, Cincinnati, and Seattle.