As I see it, womanhood is a brave performance art in which the abstract principles of faith, empathy and duty come to life. As a Muslim woman and an activist, I carry stories that often fall on deaf ears – the stories of immigrants, refugees and people who live on the margins.
Everything I do is founded on the idea that art can express what words cannot. With photography, storytelling and art, I try to turn one’s pain into empathy, silence into conversation.
Identity and admiration
It’s not easy being a woman: sometimes you have to go through so many things alone. As a female artist, activist, photographer and CEO, I always try to give equality of room and light to every woman around me, because they guide and shine. I am their admirer of them being women.
This year I am honoured to be shortlisted by UN UK women to join the Commission on Status of Women (CSW70), to celebrate International Women’s Day, 2026. I am the only Muslim refugee shortlisted to attend the event from Scotland.
The power of women supporting women
During tough times there were many women who always supported me – they are my evidence that when a woman needs the biggest support, it can come from other women. And if you have female defenders at your side, consider yourself lucky.
Mothers often fulfil this important role. I have seen many mothers most of the times put aside their own happiness. They are more concerned about their children, their daughters. This makes us realise how lucky some of us are to have a loving mother – she can even be a best friend. They are the real invisible heroes of our society, and I miss my mother.
Womanhood, community, and justice
Being a woman is about taking care of communities and fighting against injustice. I believe it’s the responsibility of people to raise awareness about injustices – those that can be seen and also those that cannot – as events in other countries are more than just news articles we scroll through on our phones. Through art and advocacy, I’m still working for a world in which sympathy becomes action and where all voices are seen and heard.
The invisible burdens of immigrant women
There are many invisible burdens borne by immigrant women across the UK; issues which rarely enter the public discourse. Behind-closed-doors, or temporary accommodation, these women confront uncertainty, isolation, and an all-consuming pressure simply to survive. Many face language barriers, cultural confusion, and overwhelming systems that are impossible to navigate without help. For others, motherhood takes place in an unfriendly environment where relatives are unavailable to offer support; they carry trauma of their own.
Displacement and inner struggle
The pain can be compounded for immigrant women by displacement, loss of identity, financial insecurity, and the fear of an uncertain future. They are talented, educated, and resilient people whose abilities are often overlooked. The inability to earn a living, lengthy asylum processes, and precarious housing can take a heavy toll on mental health and self-esteem. Yet, in the midst of this, immigrant women continue to come together, care for one another, and build a sense of belonging.
Art as witness and voice
My job is to make their stories visible. Art becomes a mirror to their strength and struggles. By telling their stories, we challenge stereotypes and remind the world that immigrant women are not helpless victims, but fierce forces of survival, imagination and change.
More on society:
Friends of Bylines Network
There has never been a greater need for grassroots journalism that investigates the stories that really matter, holds power to account and champions the voices of everyday citizens. We are proudly powered by volunteers but what we do isn’t free.
STAND WITH US for independent, citizen-led journalism that makes democracy stronger, and you will even get some exclusive benefits.
