2020
Fatima Sator
- Age: 32
- | She/her/hers
Region:
Country of Origin:
Country of Residence:
Expertise Areas:
Regardless of your gender, origins, background, or religion, everyone should be a feminist. It is an idea that has no boundaries, no religion, or socio-economic background. Without gender equality, we won't achieve a functional society that gives everyone the opportunity to thrive.
- Fatima Sator
Bio
Fatima Sator is originally from Algeria and currently lives and works in Switzerland. She received a Master’s in International Relations and Diplomacy from the School of Oriental and African Studies in 2018. Fatima is also a lead character in the HBO documentary “Bertha Lutz” (2021). As a Public Information Officer for the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), Fatima worked in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ethiopia, Nigeria and Ukraine, which includes external relations, giving interviews, responding to press requests, publishing press releases, and ensuring international visibility to humanitarian crisis. Prior to joining the ICRC, Fatima has worked with the UN. Additionally, she is a Research Associate at the School of Oriental and African Studies, a TEDx speaker and panelist.
What ignited your pursuit for gender equality?
I was born in Algeria, and I grew up knowing that my brother had more rights than me. Society gave him more opportunities, and I had to fight for mine. When I proclaimed myself as a feminist, I was told that it was a Western concept. I have conducted a research to actually prove that it is universal. I have seen the negative effects of patriarchy in my society, within my own family, and in conflict zones. I strongly believe that no fair and equal world will be possible without gender equality. And that it should be a globally owned idea.
Please share your biggest wins as an advocate for gender equality.
I spoke to the Trusteeship Council in the UN in New York to tell the story of feminism in the United Nations. Very few know that it is thanks to women from Latin America that the UN Charter has inscribed equal rights for women and men. This story had been forgotten. Thanks to my advocacy work, now it is recognized. There is an HBO movie about this work ("Bertha Lutz"), children books, and this story is now included in the "I know gender" mandatory course for all UN Women staff.
Outside of your gender equality advocacy work, what do you enjoy doing?
Yoga, swimming, running, reading and hiking.
Languages Spoken:
- English (Advanced/Native)
- French (Advanced/Native)
- Arabic (Beginner)
- Spanish (Intermediate)
- French (Advanced/Native)
Publications:
Speaks On:
- origins of feminism in international relations
- improving humanitarian response with gender equality and community engagement
- global ownership to gender equality
Past Awards, Certifications, or Fellowships:
- Public Speaking TED Training
- Graphic Design Certificate
- School of Oriental and African Studies' Impact Fund
- Part of top 100 Swiss voices "Forum des 100"
