Who She Is
Amal Syam (Arabic: آمال صيام) is a Palestinian women’s rights advocate and the General Director of the Women’s Affairs Center (WAC) in Gaza. For over a decade, she has been at the forefront of advancing gender equality, women’s empowerment, and inclusive participation in policy-making across Palestine.
Her Journey
Born in Gaza City in 1969, Amal holds a Master’s degree in Business Administration with a specialization in Human Resource Management from Al-Azhar University. Since 2009, she has led the Women’s Affairs Center, guiding its strategy, research, community programs, and advocacy.
Her Work & Impact
Amal has spearheaded initiatives to challenge harmful gender norms, combat gender-based violence, and expand protection services for women and girls, including psychosocial support, legal aid, and economic assistance. She has also promoted economic empowerment programs—opening doors for women in employment, small business, and digital freelancing.
Beyond Gaza, Amal is a recognized voice on international platforms, speaking about the humanitarian situation, ceasefires, and the role of women in peacebuilding and recovery. Her approach is rooted in human rights, gender-transformative development, inclusion of marginalized groups, and community engagement.
Trainer & Researcher
As a trainer and facilitator, Amal has conducted workshops on leadership, gender justice, early marriage, and project management for civil society, youth, and humanitarian professionals. She has also supervised groundbreaking research on gender-based violence, women with disabilities, and the impact of conflict on women in Gaza.
Affiliations & Representation
Amal is an active member of leading national and regional networks, including:
- The CEDAW Coalition (Palestine)
- The National Coalition for UNSCR 1325
- The Palestinian NGO Network (PNGO)
- The Independent Commission for Human Rights (as Commissioner)
- The Arab Network for the Arab Feminist Community
Through these platforms, she has represented Palestinian women at regional and global conferences on women’s rights, humanitarian response, and peace processes.
Recognition
Her leadership and advocacy have been acknowledged internationally. In 2021, she was honored at the 9th International Human Rights Festival in Rabat, Morocco, for her outstanding role in defending women’s rights in Palestine.