The fifth edition of the TIME100 Next list has been unveiled, celebrating influential emerging leaders with no age restrictions who are reshaping the future of politics, activism, and science. Among the notable mentions are Palestinian food blogger Hamada Shaqoura, peace advocates Alon-Lee Green and Rula Daood, and Pakistan’s Dr. Mahrang Baloch.
All three have used their platforms to advocate for peace in Palestine and emerged as strong voices of resistance during Israel’s ongoing war on Gaza, which has also affected Lebanon. Their stories shed light on the realities of Israel’s invasion and highlight the enduring solidarity and hope amid extreme adversity.
Hamada Shaqoura: A Food Blogger in the Midst of War
Hamada Shaqoura, a 33-year-old marketing professional from Gaza, was forced to abandon his career as Israel’s relentless bombing devastated Gaza’s markets. He reinvented himself as a wartime food blogger, focusing on the resilience of Palestinians. His videos, widely shared on social media, document his efforts to cook and distribute meals to children in Gaza’s refugee camps, using whatever limited ingredients are available through humanitarian aid.
Shaqoura’s work has become a mission. As reported by TIME, he said, “I took it upon myself to make delicious and clean food for the children of the tents,” reflecting his commitment to alleviate the severe food poverty affecting 90% of Gaza’s children, as noted by UNICEF.
Alon-Lee Green and Rula Daood: Building Bridges in a Divided Land
Alon-Lee Green and Rula Daood, co-directors of the Arab-Jewish grassroots movement Standing Together, stand out for their peace efforts in a deeply divided region. Green, a Jewish-Israeli, and Daood, a Palestinian citizen of Israel, have been working together to oppose Israel’s occupation of Palestinian territories. They advocate for peace, equality, and justice for everyone living between the Jordan River and the Mediterranean Sea.
Initially known for their opposition to Israel’s controversial judicial overhaul, the pair have since focused on fostering Arab-Jewish solidarity, especially in ensuring aid convoys reach Gaza. Despite facing harassment and threats, their commitment to peace has remained unwavering.
Recognizing Global Leaders
The TIME100 Next list is seen as an expansion of the prestigious Time 100 list and aims to spotlight 100 rising stars from across various fields, including business, entertainment, sports, politics, and science. This year’s list, which also recognized Palestinian photojournalist Motaz Azaiza earlier in April, reaffirms TIME’s commitment to showcasing global voices making significant impacts.
