At the recent Women in Tech Global Awards, Marzieh Hamidi, the remarkable Afghan refugee taekwondo athlete, took center stage with a powerful message of hope and resilience. Her speech resonated deeply with attendees, highlighting the ongoing struggle for women’s rights in Afghanistan and the importance of global solidarity.
A Voice for the Voiceless
Hamidi, a 21-year-old athlete who was forced to flee Afghanistan due to the Taliban’s oppressive regime, shared her personal journey of survival and determination. Born into an Afghan refugee family in Iran, she has become a powerful symbol of resistance against the systematic suppression of women’s rights.
Fighting Beyond the Mat
Her speech eloquently captured the challenges faced by women in Afghanistan, where the Taliban has stripped away basic rights, including the ability to study, work, or participate in sports. Hamidi spoke passionately about her dream to win an Olympic medal not just for herself, but for “all the women of Afghanistan”.
The Women in Tech Global Awards ceremony not only celebrated the achievements of women in the technology sector but also served as a powerful platform to highlight the ongoing struggles faced by women in Afghanistan. Marzieh Hamidi’s presence and speech at the event underscored the critical importance of supporting Afghan women during these challenging times.
Women in Tech’s commitment to this cause is exemplified by its dedicated chapter, Women in Tech Afghanistan. This chapter is on a mission to help women have access to technology in a country where such opportunities are severely limited.
Under the leadership of Dr. Zahra Nazari, the Women in Tech Afghanistan Director, the organization is working tirelessly to promote girls’ and women’s empowerment.
In light of the current situation in Afghanistan, it is more crucial than ever for the global community to stand in solidarity with Afghan women. Women in Tech’s efforts demonstrate that remaining silent is not an option.
Through initiatives, advocacy, and support networks, the organization is actively working to ensure that the voices of Afghan women are heard and their rights are protected. By continuing to shine a spotlight on these issues and providing tangible support, Women in Tech is playing a vital role in maintaining hope and creating opportunities for women in Afghanistan, even in the face of severe adversity.