Welcome to the Evolving Folks Project’s first-ever “Evolved Woman of the Week” profile. Each week, we will highlight an individual who embodies what it means to be an evolved person, famous and non-famous alike. The world needs to know their stories and deeds. This week’s honor goes to the journalist and poet Plestia Alaqad.
Plestia Alaqad, born on December 10, 2001, was raised in the Gaza Strip. She has an older brother and a younger sister. Her mother is the former head of the American International School in Gaza. She has a father who works internationally. After attending the American International School in Beit Lahia, she continued her education at Eastern Mediterranean University in Northern Cyprus, graduating in 2022 with a New Media and Journalism degree. Alaqad received the prestigious Shireen Abu Akleh Memorial Scholarship in August 2024 to enroll in an MA program in Media Studies at the American University of Beirut.
Amid the chaos in Gaza, Alaqad has emerged as a significant voice, offering an unfiltered and poignant look into its heart-wrenching destruction. Alaqad, a mere 22 years old, has enthralled people worldwide with her gripping coverage that began on October 7, 2023. Through her social media presence, she has revealed the alarming truths of life during a siege, her powerful updates resonating with millions worldwide.
Alaqad began documenting the consequences of the Israeli bombardment campaign and promptly shared her video diaries on Instagram shortly after the Israeli government declared a “total blockade” on Gaza. Her Instagram followers grew to 2.1 million by November 3, then doubled by November 22. Alaqad’s videos gained attention from several reputable news outlets, including the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, British Broadcasting Corporation, Business Today, The Independent, The New York Times, PBS Newshour, and The Washington Post. The GB News Breakfast Show featured an interview with her, discussing the effects of the war on the lives of Gazans.
Alaqad and her family left Gaza in November 2023 because of the escalating fighting, seeking refuge in Egypt and eventually Australia. Alaqad, currently living in Melbourne, passionately advocates for the Palestinian people, highlighting their struggles and resilience. By surpassing boundaries, she brings attention to the ongoing humanitarian crisis and champions justice and freedom.
Alaqad’s journey away from her homeland is a stark reminder of the ongoing human suffering caused by the conflict in Gaza. The unfolding events in the region strike a chord with those who hear her story as she grapples with guilt and sorrow for her departure. Alaqad provides her perspective on the ongoing Gaza Genocide.
“I hope this nightmare will end soon; I hope we don’t lose any more journalists.”
We at the Evolving Folks Project salute Plestia Alaqad and all the brave journalists who tell the story of the struggle of the Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank as they face the continuing onslaught of Israeli bombardment. Today, we honor Plestia Alaqad as our Evolved Woman of the Week.
Evolving Folks Project 