From streets to screens: Activists who left a mark in 2025
In 2025, activism took many forms, from street protests and courtrooms to social media and quiet community organising.
Across continents, individuals pushed back against repression, inequality and environmental harm, often at great personal risk. Here are five activists whose actions shaped public debate and contributed to policy this year in their respective countries;
Mange Kimambi, Tanzania
The US-based Tanzanian activist became one of the most influential and controversial voices who challenged President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s government. Using her massive social media following, Kimambi mobilised protests against alleged human rights abuses and election irregularities. Her activism drew international attention, but also criminal charges in Tanzania. Her activism against the ruling government began long before the elections. Consequently, her Instagram page with millions of followers was deactivated. Without the effort of Mange Kimambi, the international community would not have known about the post-election unrest and killings in Tanzania.
Truphena Muthoni, Kenya
Kenya’s climate movement gained global visibility after Muthoni broke her own record by hugging a tree for 72 hours in a peaceful protest against deforestation and climate inaction. Her act, carried out in Nyeri, resonated far beyond Kenya and emphasised how non-violent protest can cut through political divisions.
Ahmed al-Ahmed, Australia
Now popularly known as the ‘Bondi Hero,’ a fruit seller in Sydney, al-Ahmed became an unlikely activist after tackling and disarming a gunman during a deadly attack at Bondi Beach. Though not a campaigner in the traditional sense, his actions generated a global conversation about courage. He was widely praised for embodying community resistance to extremism.
Greta Thunberg, Sweden
In 2025, amongst many other activists, 22-year-old climate activist Greta Thunberg shifted much of her focus to pro-Palestinian activism, taking part in aid flotillas bound for Gaza and leading protests in London against companies linked to Israel. Her involvement led to arrests under the UK Terrorism Act in December, after which she was released on bail and is expected to appear in court in 2026.
Malala Yousafzai
The 27-year-old Nobel Peace Prize winner Malala Yousafzai launched her new memoir, Finding My Way, in which she reflects on personal growth beyond her years of activism, exploring themes of friendship, identity and finding a sense of normalcy. Alongside the book, she continued her global advocacy through the Malala Fund, championing girls’ education, and expanded into sports investment with her venture Recess, linking education and empowerment through sport. Malala also returned to her hometown in Shangla, Pakistan, for the first time in 13 years, visiting family and reaffirming her commitment to her country.
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
