Dr. Alaa Murabit stands at the forefront of global health and inclusive security efforts, leaving an indelible mark on the world through her tireless dedication to women's rights and conflict resolution. Her impressive accolades, including being a Canadian Meritorious Service Cross recipient and a UN High-Level Commissioner, underscore her extraordinary contributions.
Raised as the sixth of eleven children in Saskatchewan, Canada, Dr. Murabit's upbringing played a crucial role in shaping her perspective on leadership and equality. Her parents' commitment to treating all their children, regardless of gender, with equal respect and opportunity left a lasting impression on her.
Despite facing the challenges of a war-torn Libya, she pursued her education with unwavering determination. She earned her medical doctorate from Al Zawiya University in 2013 and later attained a Master's in International Strategy and Diplomacy with Distinction from the London School of Economics in 2016.
In 2011, at just 21 years old, she founded the Voice of Libyan Women (VLW), an organization dedicated to researching women's security, advocating against gender-based violence, and empowering women in government and peace processes. VLW's impactful Noor Campaign brought together diverse community leaders to promote a more accurate understanding of religion and advance women's rights.
Dr. Murabit's achievements extend far beyond the founding of VLW. She played a pivotal role in the United Nations, successfully negotiating and passing critical resolutions related to women's rights, including Resolution 70/1, which led to the inclusion of Goal 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions in the Sustainable Development Goals.
Her influence is felt not only in the realm of policy but also in the establishment of institutions. Dr. Murabit co-founded The Omnis Institute, an independent non-profit that empowers emerging local leaders to address critical global issues.
Notably, Dr. Murabit's TED Talk, "What My Religion Really Says about Women," has garnered over 5 million views, highlighting her ability to inspire and educate on a global scale. Furthermore, her work has earned her over 100 awards, recognizing her as a true luminary in the fields of health, security, and women's rights.
Currently, she serves as the Global Policy and Advocacy Health Director at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, further solidifying her position as a leading figure in global health initiatives. Dr. Murabit also holds the distinguished role of United Nations High-Level Commissioner on Health, Employment, and Economic Growth.
In every endeavor, she exemplifies the spirit of a visionary leader, championing the rights of women and advocating for inclusive security measures. Her unwavering dedication to creating a more equitable and peaceful world sets her apart as a beacon of hope and progress for generations to come.