Zhanna Nemtsova was born on March 26, 1984 (42 years old) in Gorky, Russia, a city now known as Nizhny Novgorod.
Many people first heard about her because she’s the daughter of Boris Nemtsov, a well-known Russian politician who spoke out against the government. After he was sadly killed in 2015, Zhanna stepped into the spotlight.
Zhanna also created the Boris Nemtsov Foundation, which works to support freedom, democracy, and human rights.
She’s now known for being a strong voice for justice and change, not just in Russia but around the world.
Want to know more about her life, work, and what she’s doing now?
Keep on reading Zhanna Nemtsova’s biography for more details about her relationships, family, education, career, achievements, net worth and facts.
Zhanna Nemtsova Wiki & Early Life
| Full Name | Zhanna Borisovna Nemtsova |
| Profession | Journalist, Social Activist |
| Age | 42 years old |
| Date of Birth | March 26, 1984 |
| Nationality | Russian |
| Zodiac/Sun Sign | Pisces |
| Birthplace | Gorky (now Nizhny Novgorod), Russian SFSR, Soviet Union |
| Current Address | Yet to be updated |
Zhanna Nemtsova Ex-Husband
Zhanna Nemtsova was previously married to a man named Dmitry Stepanov. The couple got married in 2007, but their marriage didn’t last very long. They decided to part ways and officially got divorced in 2011.
| Relationship Status | Divorced |
| Ex-Husband | Dmitry Stepanov |
Zhanna Nemtsova Family
Zhanna Nemtsova comes from a well-known and influential Russian family. Her roots are tied deeply to Russia’s political and cultural life, especially through her father.
Father
Zhanna’s father was Boris Nemtsov, a famous Russian politician and one of the strongest voices against President Vladimir Putin. He served as Deputy Prime Minister in the 1990s and later became a leader of the Russian opposition.
Sadly, Boris was assassinated in Moscow in 2015, just steps away from the Kremlin. His death shocked the world and pushed Zhanna to take a more active role in promoting freedom, democracy, and human rights.
After his death, she founded the Boris Nemtsov Foundation for Freedom to carry on his legacy.
Mother
Zhanna’s mother is Raisa Akhmetovna Nemtsova. She has mostly stayed out of the public eye, so there’s not much known about her professional life.
However, it is known that she has Tatar roots, which adds to the family’s diverse cultural background.
Zhanna has spoken respectfully about her mother in interviews, especially about how she supported her during difficult times.
Siblings
Zhanna is believed to have three half-siblings from her father’s other relationships: Dina Nemtsova, Anton Nemtsov, and Sofia Nemtsova.
| Parent’s Name | Father: Boris Nemtsov Mother: Raisa Akhmetovna Nemtsova |
| Siblings | Brother: Anton Nemtsov Sisters: Dina Nemtsova & Sofia Nemtsova |
Zhanna Nemtsova Education
Zhanna studied at one of Russia’s top universities, the Moscow State Institute of International Relations (MGIMO). This is a prestigious school, known for producing diplomats, journalists, and international experts.
At MGIMO, she earned a degree in economics and also learned foreign languages, which later helped her work in international media.
After that, she went on to study law at the Kutafin Moscow State Law University, adding another important qualification to her name.
| Alma Mater | Moscow State Institute of International Relations; Kutafin Moscow State Law University |
| Highest Qualification | Degrees in Economics & Law |
Zhanna Nemtsova Career
Zhanna began her professional journey in journalism in Russia. She first worked with Echo of Moscow, one of the country’s most respected independent radio stations. There, she gained experience in media production and political reporting.
She later moved to RBC TV, a business and finance news channel in Russia. At RBC, she worked as a news anchor and reporter, where she covered economic news, interviewed major figures, and built a name as a sharp and clear journalist.
A Turning Point – Her Father’s Assassination
In 2015, after her father Boris Nemtsov was assassinated, Zhanna received threats and feared for her safety. She made the difficult choice to leave Russia and continue her work from abroad.
New Beginnings in Germany
Later in 2015, she joined Deutsche Welle (DW) in Germany, a respected international broadcaster.
There, she hosted a political interview show in Russian called “Nemtsova. Interview.” Her show focused on human rights, politics, and the future of Russia.
Activism and Foundation Work
After settling in Germany, Zhanna founded the Boris Nemtsov Foundation for Freedom. The organization supports democracy, free media, and education programs, including a summer school for young journalists and the Nemtsov Forum, which brings together thinkers and leaders from around the world.
She also co-directs the Nemtsov Center for the Study of Russia at Charles University in Prague, where she supports research and education about modern Russia.
Podcast & Media Work
Zhanna is the co-host of the podcast “Another Russia”, where she shares untold stories about Russian politics and life under authoritarian rule. She continues to work on media projects that highlight independent voices from Russia.
| Year | Role | Organization / Network |
| Early 2000s | Radio Contributor | Echo of Moscow |
| 2010s | News Anchor & Reporter | RBC TV (Russia) |
| 2015 | Founder | Boris Nemtsov Foundation for Freedom |
| 2015–2020s | Political Show Host | Deutsche Welle (Germany) |
| 2017–Present | Co-director | Nemtsov Center at Charles University, Prague |
| 2020s–Present | Podcast Co-host & Media Contributor | “Another Russia” Podcast |
Awards and Achievements
Zhanna Nemtsova has received several international awards for her courage, activism, and dedication to press freedom. Below are some of her key achievements:
| Year | Name of Award | For What She Won It |
| 2015 | Solidarity Prize (Poland) | For promoting democracy and human rights in Russia |
| 2016 | International Women of Courage Award | For leadership, courage, and her work defending rights and justice |
| 2016 | PEC Prize for the Protection of Journalists | For her efforts in defending press freedom (cited in Wilson Center bio) |
Controversies
Zhanna Nemtsova has faced several public controversies, mostly linked to her bold stance on her father’s murder and criticism of the Russian government, as shown below:
Podcast & Media Work
Zhanna is the co-host of the podcast “Another Russia”, where she shares untold stories about Russian politics and life under authoritarian rule. She continues to work on media projects that highlight independent voices from Russia.
| Year | Role | Organization / Network |
| Early 2000s | Radio Contributor | Echo of Moscow |
| 2010s | News Anchor & Reporter | RBC TV (Russia) |
| 2015 | Founder | Boris Nemtsov Foundation for Freedom |
| 2015–2020s | Political Show Host | Deutsche Welle (Germany) |
| 2017–Present | Co-director | Nemtsov Center at Charles University, Prague |
| 2020s–Present | Podcast Co-host & Media Contributor | “Another Russia” Podcast |
Awards and Achievements
Zhanna Nemtsova has received several international awards for her courage, activism, and dedication to press freedom. Below are some of her key achievements:
| Year | Name of Award | For What She Won It |
| 2015 | Solidarity Prize (Poland) | For promoting democracy and human rights in Russia |
| 2016 | International Women of Courage Award | For leadership, courage, and her work defending rights and justice |
| 2016 | PEC Prize for the Protection of Journalists | For her efforts in defending press freedom (cited in Wilson Center bio) |
Controversies
Zhanna Nemtsova has faced several public controversies, mostly linked to her bold stance on her father’s murder and criticism of the Russian government, as shown below:
| Year | Controversy | One-Line Detail |
| 2015 | Criticism of Murder Probe | Zhanna claimed Russian authorities failed to properly investigate her father Boris Nemtsov’s assassination. |
| 2017 | Show Trial Accusation | She called the murder trial of five men a “show trial” that didn’t go after the real organizers. |
| 2023 | European Court Ruling | ECHR ruled Russia failed to investigate the political motive in her father’s killing; Russia ordered to pay her €20,000. |
| Ongoing | Anti-Kremlin Statements | She publicly blames Russian propaganda and media for her father’s death, drawing backlash from pro-government voices. |
| 2015–Now | Living in Exile | After receiving threats, she left Russia for Germany, sparking criticism from state-aligned voices. |
Zhanna Nemtsova Net Worth, Salary
Zhanna Nemtsova’s estimated net worth is around $437,000, though her yearly salary is yet to be updated.
| Net Worth in Dollars (Approx.) | $437,000 |
| Salary (Approx.) | Yet to be updated |
Zhanna Nemtsova Height, Weight & Physical Stats
Zhanna Nemtsova has a graceful and confident look that matches her strong personality. She has black hair and dark eyes, often seen wearing simple yet elegant outfits during interviews and public events.
Her exact height, weight, and body measurements are not publicly available, but she carries herself with a calm and professional presence.
| Height | In centimetres: Yet to be updated In meters: Yet to be updated In feet & inches: Yet to be updated |
| Weight | In kg: Yet to be updated In lbs: Yet to be updated |
| Body Measurements | Yet to be updated |
| Hair Color | Black |
| Eye Color | Dark brown |
Zhanna Nemtsova Instagram, X, Facebook, LinkedIn
| X |  @zhannanemtsova |
 @zhanna.nemtsova |
Interesting Facts About Zhanna Nemtsova
- Zhanna Nemtsova speaks three languages fluently: Russian, English, and Portuguese.
- Before becoming a journalist, she studied economics and law.
- Zhanna moved to Germany for safety after receiving death threats in Russia.
- She once interviewed top global leaders while working for Deutsche Welle.
- Her podcast “Another Russia” tells hidden stories from inside her home country.
- Nemtsova co-directs a university research center in Prague focused on Russian studies.
- Zhanna once said, “Without propaganda, my father might still be alive,” blaming Russian media for his murder.
FAQs
Who is Zhanna Nemtsova?
Zhanna Nemtsova is a Russian journalist, activist, and the daughter of the late opposition leader Boris Nemtsov.
Where is Zhanna Nemtsova now?
Zhanna Nemtsova currently lives in Germany and works on media and human rights projects.
What does Zhanna Nemtsova do for a living?
Zhanna Nemtsova is a journalist, podcast host, and runs a foundation supporting freedom and democracy.
Was Zhanna Nemtsova married?
Yes, Zhanna Nemtsova was married to Dmitry Stepanov from 2007 to 2011.
What languages does Zhanna Nemtsova speak?
Zhanna Nemtsova can fluently speak Russian, English, and Portuguese.
What is the Boris Nemtsov Foundation?
It’s an organization founded by Zhanna to support democracy, free speech, and human rights.
