Maria Ressa Autograph

Profession:
(1963-) Filipino and American journalist - he was awarded the 2021 Nobel Peace Prize jointly with Dmitry Muratov for "their efforts to safeguard freedom of expression, which is a precondition for democracy and lasting peace."

Year of Birth: 1963

Maria Angelita Ressa, more commonly known as Maria Ressa, is a highly respected Filipino-American journalist and author. She was born on October 2, 1963, in Manila, Philippines. Ressa spent her childhood growing up in multiple countries due to her father's job as a diplomat. This exposure to different cultures and experiences greatly influenced her worldview and ignited her passion for storytelling.

After completing her schooling, Ressa pursued a degree in English Literature at Princeton University. She later obtained her Master's degree in Journalism from the University of the Philippines Diliman. Ressa began her career as a journalist in the Philippines, working for major news organizations such as CNN and ABS-CBN.

In 2012, Ressa co-founded an independent online news outlet called Rappler. As the CEO and executive editor of Rappler, she became known for her fearless reporting, particularly on political corruption, human rights abuses, and President Rodrigo Duterte's controversial policies. Ressa's relentless pursuit of truth and accountability earned her numerous accolades and international recognition.

Throughout her career, Ressa has faced immense challenges, including threats, harassment, and legal battles. Her unwavering commitment to journalism and democracy has made her a symbol of press freedom not just in the Philippines but around the world. In 2018, she was included in Time magazine's list of "Person of the Year," recognizing her as one of the "guardians" of truth.

Ressa is also a renowned author, having written the book "Seeds of Terror: An Eyewitness Account of Al-Qaeda's Newest Center of Operations in Southeast Asia." Her book, published in 2003, provides a firsthand account of the rise of terrorism in the region, based on her experiences covering the Abu Sayyaf Group.

Maria Ressa's dedication to journalism and her fearless pursuit of truth have made her a role model for journalists around the world. Despite facing numerous challenges, she continues to inspire others with her unwavering resilience and commitment to upholding press freedom and democracy.