The Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity has announced that its 2025 Cannes LionHeart is Sonita Alizadeh. One of the Festival’s most prestigious Awards, the accolade is given to a person who has harnessed their position to make a significant and positive difference to the world around us. Through her work as the first professional Afghan rapper, a human rights activist and an author, Alizadeh has used her platform to be a global voice for women’s rights.
Alizadeh is the co-founder of Arezo and The Dreams Book, a secret school for Afghan girls deprived of education under Taliban rule. Born under Taliban rule, Alizadeh faced the threat of child marriage twice, at ages 10 and 16, before finding her voice through music. Her rap video Daughters for Sale gained international recognition, amplifying her fight against child marriage. Her story was documented in the Sundance award-winning film Sonita, which tells the story of Afghan refugee girls in Iran, with the determination and talent of Alizadeh at the heart of it.
About Alizadeh, Philip Thomas, Chair, LIONS, said: “Sonita’s journey is an inspirational story of resilience and courage. Through her music and her activism, she has used her voice and her platform to challenge oppression and inspire the next generation. We’re delighted to be recognising and honouring Sonita’s talent by awarding her as our Cannes LionHeart. It’s an Award that recognises the significant contributions that individuals can make to the world around us, and Sonita is using her voice to do that every day.”
About receiving the Award, Alizadeh said: “Being awarded the Cannes LionHeart is more than an honor – it’s a powerful affirmation that using my voice to fight for girls’ rights and freedom matters. This Award reflects the journey from silence to sound, from being sold to standing on the world stage. It reminds me that no dream is too wild when it’s rooted in truth, courage, and purpose.”
Alizadeh has performed on global stages and collaborated with artists and organisations that share her mission. She has addressed world leaders and worked with NGOs such as the UN, Human Rights Watch, and Amnesty International to push for change. Alizadeh is a Global Rhodes Scholar and has earned a degree in Human Rights and Music from Bard College. In recognition of her achievements, she has received numerous accolades, including MTV Europe’s Generation Change Award, the Freedom Prize, and a place on Forbes 30 Under 30.
Alizadeh will take to the Debussy Theatre stage during the day on Friday 20 June, where she will share her story and her belief in creativity to change minds and make a difference, ahead of being presented The Cannes LionHeart Award during the final Awards Show of the Festival that evening.