"Women of 2022" was determined by SES Equality and Solidarity Association, which was organized for the second time. The awards were presented to 21 women selected by public votes at a ceremony held on the 26th of January at Pera Museum. Journalist Özlem Gürses hosted the SES Association's 'Women of the Year Award Night'. Founder and President of the Afghan Refugees Solidarity Association, MD. Zakira Hekmat received this award on behalf of women resisting the Taliban in Afghanistan. 

Hekmat, together with the women, wanted to draw attention once again to the troubles of women and girls living in Afghanistan with her award, which was received on behalf of the Afghan Women Insurgents. She asked the international community not to forget Afghan women, to defend their rights and make their voices heard. "This award is dedicated to Afghan women and girls, I am proud to present this precious award to all women who have fought and have been still fighting for their fundamental rights in Afghanistan in recent years. Women and girls are living the darkest days of history in Afghanistan. Children today are denied their right to education, including primary school, simply because of their gender. My sisters cannot go to work, and many of them cannot leave the country and are in grave danger. It is my duty to fight and defend the defenceless women/girls of Afghanistan. In a world that has chosen to deny Afghan women's existence, I strive to provide services for them, make their voices heard, and defend their rights, even when I'm far away from them. I will continue to share this message: The Taliban institutionalized discrimination against women. They denied our fundamental rights. We cannot forget the women of Afghanistan."

Click here for the SES 'Women of the Year 2022' award winners booklet.