She is an Iranian-American journalist and political activist whose name has become widely recognized for her fearless reporting and advocacy. Known for her work with prominent media outlets such as the VOA Persian Service, Radio Farda, Manoto television, and IranWire, she has consistently used her platform to speak out against injustices. Her critiques of Iranian authorities are not only vocal but deeply rooted in both personal experience and published scholarship—she’s authored several books in Persian, including Tahasson, Taj-e-Khar, and Gharar Sabz, all of which reflect her sharp analysis and courage.
Long before she gained international attention, her journey in activism began back in 1994. At that time, she was producing leaflets critical of Iran’s government—a bold move that ultimately led to her imprisonment. That early act of defiance marked the beginning of a lifelong commitment to free expression. After her release, she dove into journalism, writing for notable publications like Shargh, Bahar, and Vaghaye, steadily building a reputation as a thoughtful and fearless voice.
Her breakthrough moment came in 2014 when she launched My Stealthy Freedom, a Facebook page that quickly went viral. The initiative invited Iranian women to share photos of themselves without the hijab, challenging mandatory dress codes in a powerful, peaceful way. It wasn’t just a social media campaign—it became a symbol of resistance and personal freedom.
Born and raised in the small town of Ghomikola in Babol, Iran, her roots have always informed her perspective. From those early days in northern Iran to becoming a globally recognized figure, her story is one of resilience, integrity, and unwavering dedication to truth. And today, her name continues to resonate across diaspora communities and beyond, standing as a beacon for press freedom and human rights.
She has received numerous accolades for her impactful journalism and activism, with several prestigious honors highlighting her dedication. Among these, she was recognized at the 2015 Geneva Summit for Human Rights, where she accepted a human rights award presented by UN Watch—a moment that underscored her global influence. In addition, she earned the esteemed Omid Journalism Award from the Mehdi Semsar Foundation, a testament to her courage and integrity in reporting. She also brought attention to critical issues through her work, which led to winning an AIB Media Excellence Award. Over the years, she has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to truth and justice, earning respect across the media and human rights communities. Each of these milestones reflects her unwavering voice and tireless efforts in advocating for change.