Nepali Activist Ruksana Kapali Among BBC’s 100 Influential Women of 2023

Ruksana Kapali, a transgender human rights activist from Nepal, has secured a spot on the British Broadcasting Corporation’s (BBC) prestigious list of influential women for the year. The annual list, unveiled on Tuesday, celebrates the accomplishments of 100 women from diverse backgrounds across the globe.

Hailing from the Newa indigenous community, Kapali has been acknowledged for her unwavering commitment to advocating for the rights of transgender individuals, particularly women. The BBC highlighted her resilience in the face of challenges stemming from a lack of awareness about her identity during her formative years.

Despite these obstacles, Kapali has emerged as a powerful voice for queer rights, utilizing social media platforms to address issues related to gender and sexuality. Currently in her third year of law school, she is actively involved in efforts to advance legal and constitutional rights for gender and sexual minorities in Nepal.

The BBC’s annual list, initiated in 2013, recognizes women who have made significant contributions to women’s empowerment in various fields, including politics, enterprise, art, literature, and services.

Ruksana Kapali’s inclusion underscores her impactful advocacy and dedication to fostering positive change in Nepal and beyond.