Zainab Khamis Rashid, a young advocate for children's rights from Zanzibar, Tanzania, has been awarded the prestigious Young Courage Award in Sweden. The award, presented by the Raoul Wallenberg Academy in collaboration with Swedish embassies and the Swedish Institute, recognizes young people aged 13-20 who demonstrate exceptional civil courage. Rashid was nominated for the award by Thani Abdulrahman, a 2025 finalist, and her mother, after she shared her story of volunteering and advocating for children with disabilities in Zanzibar.
Rashid's journey to the Young Courage Award began when she started volunteering and advocating for children's rights in Zanzibar. Through the Children's Rights Forum Zanzibar and the Youth Council, she helps children with disabilities access education and overcome discrimination. She also speaks up for children whose rights are overlooked, challenges barriers that prevent children with disabilities from accessing school and work, and promotes equal opportunities for young people. Her efforts have not gone unnoticed, as she was encouraged and guided by Thani Abdulrahman and supported by her mother throughout her journey.
The Young Courage Award is an annual international award that recognizes young people who stand up for human rights, challenge injustice, and take action to make a difference in their communities. Inspired by the legacy of Swedish diplomat Raoul Wallenberg, the award seeks to honor young people who demonstrate exceptional civil courage. Rashid's win is a testament to her dedication and commitment to creating positive change in her community. She was welcomed with warmth by the organizers and people responsible for the program in Sweden, and her experience was marked by new and exciting encounters.
During her visit to Sweden, Rashid had the opportunity to explore Stockholm and experience the country's rich history and culture. She was impressed by the way Sweden preserves its heritage, with statues, public spaces, and old buildings that have been carefully maintained. Rashid also enjoyed a boat tour of the city, visited historical places, restaurants, gardens, and parks, and met the Tanzanian Ambassador to Sweden, Swahiba Mndeme. The ambassador's friendly and welcoming nature made Rashid feel connected to home, despite being far away from Tanzania.
Rashid's experience in Sweden was not limited to sightseeing; she also participated in workshops and meetings that taught her about the history of the Young Courage Award and Raoul Wallenberg. She learned that courage is not only about physical strength but also about using one's voice, words, and actions to stand up for what is right and protect others. Rashid was inspired to continue learning and sharing her experiences with other young people, and she met with the Swedish Minister for Foreign Affairs, Maria Malmer Stenergard, to discuss artificial intelligence and the digital space.
One of the most unforgettable moments of Rashid's life was receiving the Young Courage Award. She felt deeply emotional and proud, and she almost cried tears of happiness when her picture was displayed on a big screen in the hall, along with an explanation of why she had been selected for the award. Rashid's win is a testament to the power of small actions and the impact that young people can have when they believe in themselves and refuse to give up.
Rashid has returned to Tanzania with new hope, confidence, and determination to continue inspiring young people and serving her community. She hopes to use her experience to empower other young people, share skills and opportunities, and address harmful practices affecting their communities. Rashid's journey to the Young Courage Award is a shining example of the impact that young people can have when they stand up for what they believe in and work towards creating positive change.
Key points
- Zainab Khamis Rashid, a Tanzanian teenager, has won the Young Courage Award in Sweden for her advocacy work on children's rights in Zanzibar.
- The Young Courage Award recognizes young people aged 13-20 who demonstrate exceptional civil courage and stand up for human rights, challenge injustice, and take action to make a difference in their communities.
- Rashid's win is a testament to the power of small actions and the impact that young people can have when they believe in themselves and refuse to give up.
