London — The BBC has unveiled its list of 100 inspiring and influential women from around the world for 2024. This year, several remarkable women from South Asia have been recognized for their extraordinary contributions in various fields.

Shilshila Acharya, Nepal – Sustainability Entrepreneur Shilshila Acharya is the driving force behind one of Nepal’s largest plastic recycling networks, Avni Ventures. Her business not only tackles waste management but also empowers marginalized communities by employing them. Acharya’s notable initiatives include the “No Thanks, I Carry My Own Bag” campaign, which led to a ban on plastic shopping bags, and an annual clean-up in the Himalayas, which has removed 119 tonnes of rubbish since 2019.

Vinesh Phogat, India – Wrestler Vinesh Phogat, a three-time Olympian and one of India’s most decorated wrestlers, has been a vocal critic of sexism in sports. Despite her disqualification from the Olympic final this year, Phogat’s legacy includes medals from World Championships, Commonwealth, and Asian Games. She has since retired from wrestling and entered politics, continuing her fight against gender stereotypes. Phogat was also a prominent figure in the protest against the Indian wrestling federation chief accused of sexual harassment.

Pooja Sharma, India – Performer of Funerary Rites For the past three years, Pooja Sharma has been performing last rites for unclaimed bodies in Delhi, a role traditionally held by men in Hinduism. Motivated by personal tragedy, Sharma has conducted funerary rites for over 4,000 people from various faiths, advocating for dignity in death through her social media presence.

Aruna Roy, India – Social Activist Aruna Roy, a former civil servant, has dedicated her life to advocating for the rights of the poor in India. As co-founder of the Mazdoor Kisan Shakti Sangathan (MKSS), she played a crucial role in the enactment of the 2005 law for government accountability. Roy’s decades-long activism has earned her numerous awards, including the Ramon Magsaysay Award. This year, she published her memoir, “The Personal is Political.”

Hamida Aman, Afghanistan – Media and Education Entrepreneur In response to the Taliban’s ban on secondary education for girls, Hamida Aman launched the Begum Academy, an online platform offering free courses. Her initiatives include Begum TV, an educational channel, and Radio Begum, a station for women by women. These platforms have provided educational resources to thousands of Afghan girls.

Zakia Khudadadi, Afghanistan – Taekwondo Paralympian Zakia Khudadadi made history as the first member of the Paralympic Refugee Team to win a medal at the 2024 Paris Games. Despite being born without one forearm and facing numerous challenges, Khudadadi’s perseverance has made her a symbol of hope and resilience for Afghan women.

Elaha Soroor, Afghanistan – Singer and Composer Elaha Soroor, an award-winning artist, uses her music to champion women’s rights in Afghanistan. Her anthem “Naan, Kar, Azadi!” (Bread, Work, Freedom!) premiered at the All Afghan Women Summit, sending a powerful message of encouragement amidst the suppression of women’s voices in her homeland.

Mahrang Baloch, Pakistan – Medical Doctor and Political Activist Mahrang Baloch has become a prominent activist against enforced disappearances in Balochistan. After her father’s alleged abduction and death, Baloch led a 1,000-mile march to Islamabad, demanding justice. Her efforts have been recognized in the TIME100 Next 2024 list of emerging leaders.

Hadiqa Kiani, Pakistan – Singer and Songwriter Hadiqa Kiani, a celebrated Pakistani singer, has also made significant humanitarian contributions. In response to the 2022 floods, she launched the Vaseela-e-Raah project, which has built 370 homes for displaced families. Kiani continues to use her platform to support those in need.

Rikta Akter Banu, Bangladesh – Nurse and School Founder Rikta Akter Banu founded a school for children with disabilities in northern Bangladesh after her autistic daughter was denied admission to a local school. The Rikta Akhter Banu Learning Disability School now serves 300 students, changing community perceptions about disability and providing much-needed education and support.

These women from South Asia exemplify resilience, innovation, and dedication, making significant impacts in their communities and beyond.