Amsterdam, Netherlands – Nila Ibrahimi, a 17-year-old Afghan human rights activist, has been awarded the 2024 International Children's Peace Prize for her tireless efforts in defending the rights of girls in Afghanistan under the Taliban regime.

The KidsRights Foundation announced on Monday that Ibrahimi would be honored for her courageous advocacy against the Taliban's oppressive policies, particularly those targeting women and girls. The award, previously bestowed upon notable figures such as Greta Thunberg and Malala Yousafzai, recognizes young individuals who have made significant contributions to children's rights.

Ibrahimi first gained international attention in 2021 when she defied the Taliban's ban on girls singing in public schools. At the age of 13, she posted a video of herself singing on social media, inspiring a wave of similar videos from other Afghan girls who used the hashtag #IAmMySong. This online movement led to the temporary lifting of the ban.

However, the Taliban's subsequent takeover of Afghanistan forced Ibrahimi and her family to flee to Canada as refugees. Despite being in a safer environment, she remained committed to supporting the women and girls left behind in her homeland.

Together with a support organization, Ibrahimi established a fund to help 200 Afghan girls relocate to safer countries. She also co-founded "HerStory," a platform dedicated to documenting the experiences of Afghan women who have been forced to flee their country.

"I believe that what happens to women in one part of the world can happen to women anywhere," Ibrahimi said in an interview. "I will never give up on the women of Afghanistan."

The young activist has become a symbol of hope for millions of girls around the world who are denied their basic rights. Her unwavering dedication to promoting gender equality and human rights has earned her widespread admiration and support.