HARTS Hands on Refugees Talent and Sustainability

This cause is supported by the Harts, the Greek Forum of Refugees, NGO in Athens

Many women still face structural and political obstacles and discriminatory practices that exclude them from the right to freedom of expression. Many of these obstacles and practices are manifestations of no access to education and gender-based discrimination. This fundraising will shine the spotlight on women who have stood up for freedom of expression. Mahdia Hossaini is one of many examples. At first she was rejected by her society because of her beliefs and was subjected to discriminatory threats. If you want to read about how she overcame the challenges and set up her first female refugee led newspaper in one of the refugee camps in Greece , please support this cause. By making a donation you can help Mahdia to publish her novel, that will inspire many young talented girls who deserve to be heard. 

"I am Mahdia a refugee who was born in migration. My parents are also refugees.My grandparents were also refugees.I am from a generation that has been carrying the burden of being a refugee for many years. Years have passed since the days when I chose to hide my refugee status from others. Yes, it took me years to realise that being a refugee was not a crime. Now, I know being a refugee made me stronger. The path I take to achieve my goals is much longer and harder than the path that non-refugees take. As a Muslim woman, I have faced many difficulties in achieving my goals in Afghan society and in the host society. But I promised myself that I would not give up and I would be the voice of all the voiceless people. I have been interested in writing since I was 9. One of my dreams is to write a novel in which I can share my experiences with others. I have thought many times about how inspiring this book can be for those who are at the peak of despair, because I was also in this situation . I fell many times but got up again stronger than before. I want to tell those who are waiting for a spark to start , Never give up like me, you can do it too” Mahdia Hossaini

 

This fundraising was set up by Mahdia and Anna 

 

“We salute all the women around the world who stand up for freedom of expression.”

 

Mahdia and Anna

 

 

Mahdia the writer, journalist and interpreter who will write the book

 

Anna the runner who will run the Connemara ultramarathon to raise the funds for this publication