2005 Echoing Green Fellow Shreen Abdul Saroor has dealt with war and displacement her entire life. In 1990, she and her family were forced to flee their Sri Lankan home after persecution by a militant sect. Inspired by her family’s hardship, Shreen dedicated her life to helping women facing violence and oppression.

In recognition of her efforts, Shreen has been named by the Women’s Commission for Refugee Women and Children as a Voices of Courage Awardee. She will be honored for her work with the Mannar Women’s Development Foundation, which helps women displaced by violence in Sri Lanka.

Every year, the Women’s Commission for Refugee Women and Children holds a Voices of Courage Awards Luncheon to celebrate achievements in protecting refugee women and youth from violence and exploitation. At the event, the organization honors three Voices of Courage Awardees—individuals who have dedicated their lives to helping this population. We are proud that Shreen will be commended for her devotion to Sri Lankan women.

The Voices of Courage Awards Luncheon will take place on May 6, 2008 in New York City. For more information, please see the Women’s Commission invitation.