"I was attacked, detained in Kilifi and harrassed in Lamu!"- Salma Hemed

Salma Hemed - mwanaharakati tajika Pwani. Ahutubia namna alivyojitoa katika jamii inayodhani kuwa nafasi ya mwaname ni jikoni. Hivi leo anajivunia ‘mateso’ aliyopitia ili kuona haki za wanawake na watoto zimetekelezwa na wanawake wameweza kuamka na kujitetea. Salma Hemed is a dedicated women’s rights advocate, community leader, and the Founder and Executive Director of SHE RISES Organisation, a women-led initiative based in Mombasa championing the rights of women and youth, with a special focus on mental health. A proud mother of four, Salma’s journey is rooted in resilience and purpose. She married at the age of 18 and welcomed a pair of twins at 19. Her professional path began early as well—at 20, she worked as a sales girl in a local children’s shop, a role that introduced her to the working world. She later transitioned into private-sector roles, gaining valuable experience that shaped her career. In 2013, Salma joined MUHURI as the Personal Assistant to the Executive Director. The following year, she co-founded HAKI Africa alongside Hussein Khalid, taking on the role of Gender Rights Champion. Her commitment, leadership, and passion for social justice saw her rise through the ranks, eventually serving as the Deputy Executive Director, a position she held for 13 years. During her tenure, she played a key role in advancing human rights, amplifying community voices and strengthening gender justice work across the region. In 2024, Salma embarked on a new chapter. After transitioning from HAKI Africa, she began shaping her vision for an organisation rooted in compassion, advocacy and empowerment. By mid-year, her vision became a reality with the establishment of SHE RISES Organisation. The organisation is dedicated to uplifting women and youth, promoting mental wellness, and creating safe, supportive spaces where society can thrive. Salma continues to inspire through her leadership, lived experiences, and deep commitment to social justice, equality, and community wellbeing. Akiwa na mwenyeji wetu Sammy Mwaura, tunachambua mustakabalihali ya haki yetu na usalama hapa Pwani Kaa tayari, enjoy mazungumzo, alafu tuambie Tuchanje maswala yetu sisi kwa sisi! #ChanjaBySemaBOX #SautiYaPwani #SemaBOX