The Sunday Times journalist Marie Colvin was a passionate advocate for women’s right to speak out and influence change, and took every opportunity to mentor and offer advice to less experienced journalists – while being a constant friend and sounding-board to fellow, experienced reporters.

She died in Homs, Syria, in February 2012, reporting the injustices of conflict, determined to uncover truth from one of the most dangerous places on earth. Marie believed passionately in the rights of women and their power to create change wherever they live.

Not long before her death, Marie was introduced to The Circle, a charity founded by Annie Lennox, which connects women across the world to tackle inequality. Her friends, Lyse Doucet, Lindsey Hilsum, and Jane Wellesley, felt that the best way to remember Marie was to set up Marie Colvin Journalists Network to continue her practical support for women producing quality independent journalism.

This ambitious project offers a new network for female journalists working in the Middle East and North Africa. The Network brings together experienced journalists and up-and-coming reporters, often working with little or no support, to create a vibrant online community where members can receive practical support and mentoring and can share advice with other journalists working in the area.

The Network also offers online resources and monthly webinars in English and Arabic about journalism and storytelling skills, legal aid, ways to find job opportunities, available scholarships, digital security, emergency aid and psychological health and trauma.

“Covering a war means going to places torn by chaos, destruction and death, and trying to bear witness. It means trying to find the truth in a sandstorm of propaganda when armies, tribes or terrorists clash. And yes, it means taking risks, not just for yourself but often for the people who work closely with you.” – Marie Colvin (2010)

Learn more about donating to the network on The Circle.