Makepeace Sitlhou is an acclaimed journalist and communications professional with a decade of experience covering complex socio-political issues across South Asia. Known for her deep commitment to human rights and social justice, Makepeace’s work has been featured in some of the world’s most respected publications, including The Daily Beast, CNN International, Vogue, Al Jazeera, and The Washington Post. Her reporting has often taken her to the frontlines of conflict, where she has skillfully navigated the challenges of crisis communication and ethical storytelling.
Makepeace’s journey in journalism began in 2011 when she joined Halabol, a social activism platform, as Managing Editor. There, she oversaw editorial content focused on social justice and environmental issues, a role that set the tone for her career-long dedication to advocacy through media. Her early career also saw her working with The Alternative, where she curated community-driven content that spurred discussions on key societal issues, further cementing her role as a voice for the marginalized.
From 2014 to 2017, Makepeace worked with Amnesty International India in various capacities, including Senior Web Editor and Rapid Response Campaigner. At Amnesty, she was instrumental in crafting and executing communication strategies for nationwide human rights campaigns. Her work not only increased public awareness but also contributed to significant policy changes. During this time, she also developed persuasive messaging and media kits that were central to the success of Amnesty’s advocacy efforts. This period honed her skills in media relations, digital content creation, and crisis communication, making her a formidable force in the world of human rights journalism.
In 2018, Makepeace transitioned into independent journalism, a move that allowed her to delve deeper into investigative reporting and long-form storytelling. Her work during this period has been distinguished by its focus on underreported issues, including the plight of marginalized communities in conflict zones. Her ability to tell compelling stories that resonate with diverse audiences has earned her widespread recognition, including several prestigious awards. In 2023, she was a finalist for the Society of Professional Journalists Award in the Climate/Environment Reporting category and received a Rocky Mountain Emmy Award for a short documentary in the Student Non-Fiction category. These accolades are a testament to her exceptional ability to combine rigorous reporting with a compassionate understanding of the human condition.
Makepeace’s educational background includes a Master’s in Psychology from Delhi University and a Professional and Academic Exchange Program at Arizona State University, where she was a Hubert H. Humphrey Fellow at the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Communication. This academic foundation has equipped her with a unique perspective on the psychological aspects of storytelling and communication, which she applies in her work to engage audiences on a deeper level.
In addition to her journalism, Makepeace is also passionate about mentoring the next generation of storytellers. She has been involved in various fellowships and training programs, including the International Women's Media Foundation's Howard G Buffet grant and APWLD Media and Visual Fellowship on Militarism, Peace, and Women’s Human Rights. Fluent in English, Hindi, Urdu, and several regional languages, she is adept at navigating the linguistic and cultural nuances essential to her work in the diverse and often volatile landscape of South Asia.
Today, Makepeace continues to push the boundaries of journalism, focusing on cross-border stories and multimedia projects that explore the intersection of human rights, conflict, and environmental issues. Her work not only informs but also challenges and inspires, making her one of the most respected voices in contemporary journalism.
