Celebrating the Leadership and Resilience of Refugee Women

By Tara Faik

Women’s History Month is not only a time for reflection but also a call to recognize the resilience and impact of women who have shaped our lives and communities, both locally and globally. This month, we honor the refugee women who, despite unimaginable hardships, continue to inspire change, uplift their communities, and advocate for a more just and compassionate world. Their contributions remind us that the struggle for a better world is ongoing – and that we must continuously support policies that protect and empower displaced people.

Women are often the backbone of their families, carrying the weight of displacement while nurturing hope for future generations. As Liyah Babayan, Delegate for Idaho, so eloquently puts it:

“My Mama is my first home, my first country, my forever belonging and safety. Refugee women, mothers especially, endure the duty of keeping their children's childhood intact, their purity of innocence brilliant, and their bodies safe as the world presents the most horrific conditions for them to navigate. We honor them by keeping the light of the next generation shining bright in their spirit, never losing hope, never giving up or giving into darkness.”

The impact of refugee women extends beyond their families. They are mentors, organizers, and trailblazers, fighting for justice and paving the way for others. Paul Mwingwa, Delegate for Montana, celebrates the unwavering dedication of Drocella Mugorewera, Board Member and Honorary Delegate:

“Throughout my journey, I have been deeply inspired by Drocella Mugorewera, a remarkable refugee leader whose resilience and dedication to uplifting forcibly displaced communities continue to make a profound impact. Despite facing immense challenges, she has remained a fierce advocate for justice, using her voice and ideas to empower others. She has been close to me even when our countries (Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda) want to separate us. This Women’s History Month, I celebrate her and all the refugee women whose contributions shape a more just and compassionate world.”

Kumari Pokhrel, Delegate for Upstate New York, also recognized fellow Refugee Congress Delegates like Tika Bhandari, Delegate for Iowa, who have dedicated their lives to serving other forcibly displaced women and communities throughout their own journey.

“A special shout-out goes to Tika Bhandari, Delegate of Iowa, for her unwavering dedication to her community and the people she serves. From her early days in the refugee camp, Tika has been a passionate social worker, and she continues to help others with the same heart and commitment. Her work is an inspiration to me and to so many others, and her drive to make a positive impact motivates me every day,” she said. “Thank you, Tika, for being a beacon of hope, strength, and kindness. You truly embody the spirit of Women's History Month.”

It is women like Drocella and Tika who turn personal hardship into collective progress. They are not only rebuilding their own lives; they are shaping policies, fostering meaningful relationships, and ensuring that no one else has to walk their path alone. Their leadership extends beyond advocacy and touches every aspect of life, from legal rights to healthcare, ensuring displaced communities have the support they need to heal and thrive.

One of the most pressing challenges faced by displaced communities is access to mental health resources. Oftentimes, financial, linguistic, and cultural barriers can make it exceedingly difficult for refugees to seek the help they need. Thus, it is critical to acknowledge the refugee women who take on the urgent and complex issue of tackling accessibility to mental health resources. Aisha Koroma, Delegate for Washington D.C., honors Dr. Sophia Banu, a psychiatrist with lived forced displacement experience:

“From knocking on the doors of refugee women in Houston and inviting them to participate in women’s support groups, to providing critical care in resettlement agencies, clinics, camps, and disaster zones, Dr. Banu’s impact is immeasurable. As the founder of the Clinic for International Trauma Survivors, Dr. Banu has built a lasting legacy of trauma-responsive, healing-centered care, uplifting forcibly displaced communities with profound cultural humility. Her leadership extends beyond direct care; she trains the next generation of psychiatrists, shapes the global mental health landscape, and co-authors key works on trauma, resilience, and recovery. She exemplifies how one person’s commitment can create ripples of change.”

Women’s History Month is also a time to celebrate the power of collective action—the strength that comes not just from individual achievements but from the shared determination of women fighting for change. Jessi Calzado-Esponda, an Honorary Delegate, reflects on this deeply interconnected legacy:

“I wish I could name just one woman who has influenced me over the years, but the truth is, I have been shaped by the collective power of many. Today, I want to take a moment to honor and uplift the extraordinary women of Refugee Congress. Their fearless fight and unwavering dedication to advocating for refugee and immigrant communities serve as a powerful example of what it means to be a true leader. Whether through policy work, community organizing, or simply offering support to those in need, these women embody the essence of resilience, strength, and compassion.”

Refugee women are not just survivors; they are architects of a better future. Their voices must not only be heard; they must be amplified. Beyond individual stories, we must recognize the systemic challenges immigrant and refugee women continue to face - from discrimination to barriers in accessing education and healthcare. While their strength and willpower are undeniable, they should not have to fight alone.

As we celebrate Women’s History Month, we must also advocate for policies that protect and uplift forcibly displaced women and children. This includes supporting safe pathways for resettlement, ensuring access to essential resources, and fighting against harmful immigration policies that put families at risk. Now, more than ever, lawmakers must take action to uphold the rights and dignity of displaced women worldwide.

Displaced women are leaders, innovators, teachers, and changemakers. This month, and every month, let’s celebrate their courage, honor their contributions, and continue the fight for a world where all women, regardless of their background, can thrive.