Fatima Naza

Activist Type

Women's Rights

Fatima Naza is a Montenegrin activist and co-founder of the Center for Roma Initiatives (CRI), the only group in Montenegro dedicated to promoting Romani women’s rights. She has combatted child marriage and violence against women for over a decade. CRI’s work has significantly increased the educational attainment and employment of Roma women, challenging both deep-seated patriarchy and systemic racism. Additionally, Naza portrayed Mukhtar Mai in the play Sedam (Seven), highlighting global women’s rights issues.

Fatima’s contributions were honored with the Anna Lindh Award in 2012 for advancing women’s participation and leadership, and she was recognized by the European Commission for aiding Roma integration in Montenegro.

Artwork by

Julie Cho

This portrait of Fatima Naza is inspired by Montenegrin textile and stitch, which is central to the artistic history of Montenegro. Montenegrin stitch is based on the cross stitch and bears a range of influences from surrounding nations to ancient Roman and Islamic traditions. The stitching reflects Fatima’s efforts to integrate Roma women into the fabric of Montenegrin society.

Montenegro

Capital

Podgorica

Founded

June 3, 2006

Demonym

Montenegrin