Uzma Naveed, a 37-year-old refugee from Pakistan in Hong Kong, has been named a finalist in the national impact category of the Women Changing the World Awards in Paris, but feels mixed emotions as her status bars her from attending. She was selected from 1,500 nominees across 97 jurisdictions. The event is set for April 21 to 24.
Uzma Naveed arrived in Hong Kong with her family in 2015 seeking asylum, and her case was substantiated three years ago. In recent years, she has spoken publicly about refugees' experiences in the city to build public empathy and challenge negative portrayals of her community. The 37-year-old from Pakistan was selected as a finalist in the “national impact” category of the Women Changing the World Awards, an annual event in Paris celebrating women's achievements, chosen from 1,500 nominees from 97 jurisdictions. The awards are scheduled for April 21 to 24. Despite the recognition, Naveed cannot attend due to restrictions on leaving Hong Kong under her current status. “I was telling my friends that I couldn’t believe it. Me, a ‘woman changing the world,’ I’ve never thought of myself like that,” she told the South China Morning Post, recounting her initial reaction. “And then it just struck me – I cannot go,” she said, “and I wish I could go because this is one of the biggest opportunities for anyone to be seen in this kind of global forum.”
