Five women journalists from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa have won the grand jury and first runner-up prizes at the Women’s Empowerment and Religious Freedom Film Competition in Washington DC, USA.
For her movie, “She Stood Against Religious Extremism”, Peshawar-based journalist Zeenat Khan won the main jury prize at the festival, with a $3,000 cash reward.
Khalida Niaz won the first runner-up prize, and won a cash prize of $1,500 for her movie “Peace Promoters”.
Talking to The Current, Khalida said, “Peace Promoters is a network established by two Muslim sisters who belong to Pesahwar. They have 200 members, which include Hindus, Muslims, Christians and people from other religions too. They go to places of worship of different religions to promote peace and religious harmony. They also try finding commonalities in different religions.”
Khalid further said that although she has got the second position, this award is very precious to her as it made her feel rewarded for her nine-year long struggle in journalism.
“This award is an example that women journalists can do reporting on every subject,” she said. “I believe this award will inspire other women of my area to do what they want.”
“The area from where I come from is really backward. Women were not even allowed to study here for a long time, but things are gradually changing.”
“When women of our area see someone getting recognition for their work, it gives them hope for their future.”
“I want to dedicate this award to every woman, women who are working in different fields or women who are sitting at their homes but want to do something in their lives.”
