Saya Rahel

Rahel Saya is a dedicated freelance journalist and activist committed to defending the rights of women and children, with a particular focus on Afghanistan. Her courageous journalistic and humanitarian work has earned her several prestigious awards, including the Biagio Agnes International Journalism and Information Award (September 2021), the Chicchi di Riso Award, and the Scarpetta Rossa – Fidapa Savona Award (November 2024), both established to promote women’s rights and combat gender-based violence.

In December 2021, she was honored by Spezia Calcio during a special ceremony at the Alberto Picco Stadium on the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. More recently, she received recognition in March 2025 for her contributions to her country of origin, and an appreciation in April 2025 for her ongoing commitment to defending the rights of women and children.

In May 2025, Rahel participated as a speaker in the 15th edition of WeWorld, joining a panel dedicated to promoting women’s rights and empowerment both in Italy and internationally.

As a journalist and author, Rahel contributed an impactful chapter titled “My Life” to the book “Guarda come una Donna”, recounting her personal journey alongside the collective experiences of Afghan women over the past two decades, particularly after the events of 2021. She views her story as reflective of an entire generation of young Afghans, especially women.

Her articles, rich in insight and reflection, have been published in various Italian and international newspapers, shedding light on the complex realities faced by women and children in Afghanistan. She has been a prominent voice at numerous international forums, including Vatican City on the occasion of the World Children’s Day launched by Pope Francis, Piazza del Popolo for the event Una Piazza per l’Europa, the Austrian Parliament, the Catalan Parliament, and the Académie de Géopolitique de Paris, where she presented reports and testimonies on the challenges Afghan women continue to face.

Currently, Rahel is pursuing a degree in Global Humanities at Università La Sapienza in Rome — one of Europe’s largest and most prestigious academic institutions. She is just 25 years old and has been living in Italy for nearly four years.