On March 3, 2009, WCI President Marjorie Margolies and Suraya Pakzad of  Afghanistan addressed a crowd eager to discuss global  gender issues in preparation for International Women’s Day, 2009.  This panel of local and international experts was sponsored by the Penn African Studies Center and WCI was honored to participate with such a courageous pioneer for women’s rights in Afghanistan.

Suraya Pkazad founded the Voice of Women Organization which provides critical services – from shelter to skills training -  for Afghan women.  In 2008 she received the International Women of Courage Award and, as of last week, Suraya has been recognized once again for her bravery and service.  TIME Magazine has names Ms. Pakzad one of the world’s Most Influential People for 2009.  WCI applauds TIME for recognizing such a worthy candidate and continues to support Suraya as she champions women’s safety and empowerment in Afghanistan and worldwide.

See Suraya’s write-up in TIME Magazine

Read more about Suraya in the Philadelphia Inquirer online