Refugee in Hong Kong could win global award. So why does she have mixed feelings?

South China Morning PostCenter-RightEN 1 min read 100% complete by Connor MycroftMarch 21, 2026 at 05:00 AM

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Uzma Naveed, a 37-year-old refugee from Pakistan seeking asylum in Hong Kong since 2015, has been selected as a finalist for the "national impact" category of the 2026 Women Changing the World Awards in Paris. Chosen from 1,500 nominees, the award recognizes her work in Hong Kong advocating for refugees and promoting empathy towards their community. Despite the honor, Naveed has mixed feelings because her refugee status prevents her from leaving Hong Kong to attend the awards ceremony scheduled for April 21-24. While she is proud of the recognition, she is disappointed that she cannot participate in this global forum to further highlight the refugee experience. Her case for asylum was substantiated three years ago, but restrictions remain on her ability to travel.

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South China Morning Post 40% Paris 50% Pakistan 60% Women Changing the World Awards 70% Hong Kong ×480% Uzma Naveed ×390%

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refugee 100% global award 80% hong kong 70% women changing the world awards 60% asylum 60% uzma naveed 50% travel restrictions 50% national impact 40%