Rokhaya Diallo receives Schwarzkopf Europe Award 2024

The young jury recognizes Diallo “as an emblematic figure in raising awareness about racism in French society and being one of the most prominent anti-racism activists in France.” With the award, the jury underlines the importance of her role in French media, showing an “unwavering commitment to fighting for human rights and giving hope to many young people.” Despite facing ongoing harassment and hate, she continues to raise her voice and fight for justice. Through her podcast “Kiffe ta race”, and her work as a journalist, speaker, author, screenwriter, and director, she has significantly shaped public discourse on diversity and equality in France. Her dedication and impact reach far beyond France, making her a powerful voice for change across Europe.

Rokhaya Diallo, raised in the working-class neighbourhoods of Paris, is a multi-award-winning journalist, documentary filmmaker, and author. She has published several acclaimed books addressing racism, feminism, and social inclusion, including “Racisme: mode d’emploi” (Racism: A User’s Manual) and “La France, tu l’aimes ou tu la fermes?” (France, do you love it or shut up?). Through her media presence, she creates spaces for marginalized perspectives and bridges personal experience with structural critique. She has published in many French and international outlets such as Libération, The Washington Post, and The Guardian and has been named one of Europe’s most influential figures in 2021 by Politico Europe.

The Schwarzkopf Europe Award has been presented annually since 2003 by a jury of “Young Europeans of the Year” to decision-makers and initiatives from politics or civil society. In 2024, it is being awarded for the nineteenth time. With this award, the Schwarzkopf Foundation empowers the younger generation to honour those who, from their perspective, have made an outstanding contribution to European understanding and ideals.