Deborah Martorell to be honored at UN General Assembly.

Deborah Martorell

By THE STAR STAFF

Journalist, meteorologist, private astronaut and science communicator Deborah Martorell will be honored next Tuesday, March 31, in the United Nations General Assembly Hall in New York City.

Martorell will be recognized as part of Women Breaking Barriers, a global summit organized by the Rise Now Organization and the United Nations Spotlight Initiative, which brings together women from multiple sectors to address one of the world’s most persistent crises: violence against women and girls, an obstacle that continues to limit their safety, opportunities and development.

Martorell’s career, marked by breaking barriers in science, media and space, makes her a key voice in the global conversation around this topic. Beyond her professional achievements, Martorell has maintained a steadfast commitment to defending women’s rights -- from fighting for workplace justice, equality, and access to education, to her more recent collaboration with initiatives such as Kilometers of Change, which promote equity, safety, and community empowerment through collective action.

“Every step we take to break down barriers matters,” Martorell said in a written statement. “I have personally experienced the challenges women face, and that is why I am committed to giving visibility to all those who continue fighting to get ahead. Being recognized at the UN General Assembly is an honor I share with them and with all those who continue to pave the way.”

The event will be broadcast live on UNTV (webtv.un.org) starting at 10 a.m. and will also be open to the public by prior registration.