Shallah Shaiq

Shallah Shaiq is an Afghan journalist, women’s rights advocate, and social activist with more than 15 years of experience in media, women empowerment, and community development. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Law (2017), a Journalism Certificate (2013), and a Project Management certification from Montgomery College. She is a VV Visionary and Aghaaz Fellow with Vital Voices and the Afghan-American Women’s Association (A-AWA).

Shallah co-founded the Shaiq Network, home to Sharq Radio and Sharq TV, and founded Voice of Women Radio, which became influential platforms for advancing women’s rights and social justice in Afghanistan.

In 2009, she established the HEELA Organization to support women’s empowerment and survivors of gender-based violence. Through legal aid services, emergency support, training programs, and a 24/7 hotline, HEELA has responded to thousands of women in crisis. Separately, Shallah has led educational and vocational training programs that have reached over 21 000 students, including women and youth, in computer skills, English, journalism, and agriculture.

Now based in the United States, Shallah draws from both professional expertise and personal experience as a resettled Afghan woman to lead advocacy efforts that span across borders. Her work supports Afghan women both in the U.S. and in Afghanistan—focusing on economic integration, educational access, and assistance for survivors of gender-based violence. Through community programs and international partnerships, she continues to empower women navigating displacement, recovery, and opportunity.

Rooted in resilience and justice, Shallah continues to create inclusive spaces where women can lead, heal, and thrive across borders and generations.