Suraya Pakzad facts for kids
.jpg)
Suraya Pakzad (Dari: ثریا پاکزاد) is an amazing Afghan woman who works hard to make life better for other women. She is known as a women's rights activist. This means she fights for women to have the same fair chances and freedoms as everyone else.
Contents
Suraya Pakzad: A Champion for Women
Suraya Pakzad started an important organization called Voice of Women in 1998. At first, this group secretly taught girls how to read. This was a very brave thing to do because, at that time, it was dangerous to educate girls in Afghanistan.
The Secret Work of Voice of Women
For several years, until 2001, Voice of Women had to work in secret. There were times when the girls learning to read even had to burn their books. They did this to stay safe and avoid being caught. This shows how much courage Suraya Pakzad and the girls had.
After 2001, the situation changed. Voice of Women was officially recognized as an NGO in 2001. NGO stands for Non-Governmental Organization. It means it's a group that works to help people, but it's not part of the government. In 2002, the organization officially registered with the government of Afghanistan.
How Voice of Women Helps Today
Today, Voice of Women does even more to help women. It provides safe places for women to stay, offers counseling, and teaches them skills for jobs. This helps women become independent and strong. The organization also played a part in creating the Afghan constitution. This is the set of rules that guides the country.
Awards and Global Recognition
Suraya Pakzad's brave work has been recognized around the world. In 2008, she received two very special awards:
- The International Women of Courage Award from the US Secretary of State. This award honors women who show great courage and leadership.
- A “Malali Medal” from the President of Afghanistan. This is a high honor in her home country.
In 2009, she was named one of the Time 100. This is a list of the 100 most influential people in the world by Time magazine.
More Honors for Her Dedication
Suraya Pakzad continued to receive many honors for her dedication. In 2010, she received:
- An honorary doctorate degree from the University of Pennsylvania.
- An honorary Associate of Arts degree from Burlington County College.
- The Clinton Global Citizen Award.
In 2011, Newsweek magazine named her as one of 150 Women Who Shake the World. This list highlights women who are making a big difference globally. In 2012, she received the Female Leader of the Year Award from the Austria Female Leadership Foundation in Germany.
Suraya Pakzad's story shows how one person's courage and hard work can bring about great change for many. She continues to be an inspiration for women and girls everywhere.
See also
In Spanish: Suraya Pakzad para niños
