Shaheen Sayyed

Shaheen Sayyed
Born	July 6, 1971 Mumbai, India
Nationality	Indian
Profession	Human Rights Activist
Notable Works	• Assisted 1,800 unpaid Indian workers stuck in Kuwait in January 2018 • Defended for the rights of 186 stranded workers in Saudi Arabia• Assisting stranded Indians in Middle Eastern countries (Saudi Arabia, Dubai, Qatar, Kuwait)• Repatriation of stranded workers• Support for abused and exploited individuals abroad• Helped over 7,000 stranded workers, maids, and seafarersAdditional Information:• Strong defender against all forms of injustice, including animal cruelty• Member of sea coast magazine• Helped fisherman Sailors to reparite home• As an animal lover, frequently engage in rescuing and caring for animals in need.
Known For	Assisting Stranded Indians Abroad
Parents	Mittal (mother)
Spouse	Mohammad Hanif

Shaheen Sayyed is a compassionate human rights activist based in Kuwait who has dedicated over two decades of her life to helping stranded Indians facing abuse and exploitation abroad. Through her relentless efforts, she has become a beacon of hope for countless individuals who find themselves in dire circumstances far from home.

Early Life and Background

Born on July 6, 1971, Shaheen Sayyed hails from Mumbai, India. She is the daughter of Mittal and grew up as the eldest among four sisters and one brother. Her upbringing instilled in her a sense of responsibility and empathy towards others, which would later shape her commitment to fighting for the rights of the marginalized.

Career

Shaheen Sayyed's journey as a human rights activist began when she relocated to Kuwait after marrying Mohammad Hanif. It was there that she witnessed the plight of stranded Indians who had traveled abroad in search of job opportunities but were subjected to various forms of abuse and exploitation.

Motivated by a genuine desire to make a positive impact, Sayyed took it upon herself to provide assistance and support to these distressed individuals. Over the course of more than 22 years, she has helped over 7,000 workers, maids, and seafarers who found themselves stranded in foreign lands, often without proper pay or adequate living conditions.

Personal Life

Shaheen Sayyed is a dedicated wife and loving mother of three children named Sahil, Aman, and Shirin. Her family serves as a source of inspiration and support for her noble endeavors. Despite the challenges she faces in her mission, Sayyed continues to balance her personal and professional life with unwavering determination.

Notable Works

Sayyed's impact is felt not only by the individuals she assists but also by the communities she serves. She has tirelessly worked to ensure the safe repatriation of stranded Indians from countries like Saudi Arabia, Dubai, Qatar, Kuwait, Malaysia, and Singapore. Her notable accomplishments include helping 1,800 unpaid Indian workers stuck in Kuwait in January 2018 and defending for the rights of 186 stranded workers in Saudi Arabia. In addition to her work in human rights, Sayyed is a fervent animal lover who actively raises her voice against all forms of injustice, including cruelty towards animals. Her compassion extends beyond human rights issues, making her a true defender for a more just and equitable society. Shankar, who was working aboard the MT Apecus oil tanker, endured a harrowing ordeal when pirates attacked the ship in April last year. He managed to escape but faced a long and distressing journey afterwards. He was charged with illegally entering Nigerian waters, spent time in jail, and was stranded on the damaged ship for months. Indian social activist Shaheen Sayyed, along with other organizations, played a crucial role in supporting Shankar and facilitating his return home. Despite facing numerous obstacles, their efforts ultimately led to his rescue. Forty sailors, stranded at sea for over two years due to a legal dispute, may finally be brought ashore in the UAE next week. The crew members have been unable to leave their ships as their passports were withheld by their employers. Charities, including the International Seafarers Welfare and Assistance Network and Mission to Seafarers, have collected Dh147,000 to cover administration costs and repatriation. The dire situation of the sailors was initially highlighted by Indian social activist Shaheen Sayyed, who has been instrumental in their rescue efforts. Antony, a veteran Deck Officer, found himself stranded on the MV ULA, a stateless vessel, for 23 months. The ordeal began with delays and payment disputes, leading to cancellation of orders and the vessel becoming flagless. The crew faced immense hardships, including unpaid salaries and lack of fresh water. In January 2023, social activist Shaheen Sayyed and authorities in Kuwait intervened, providing food and assistance. Eventually, the vessel was taken over by the Kuwait Port Authority, and the crew members were released. Help from the International Transport Workers' Federation and the Indian Embassy facilitated their return home. Indian workers in Saudi Arabia, who have been subjected to torture, starvation, and non-payment of salaries by their employers, have reached out for help. Social worker Shaheen Sayyed wrote a letter to the Expat embassy in Riyadh, highlighting the dire conditions faced by the workers. The embassy has responded and pledged assistance to the distressed citizens, while the Protector General of Expat has requested more details to address the issue. Shaheen Sayyed's intervention has played a crucial role in bringing attention to the workers' plight.

Achievements

Shaheen Sayyed's selfless dedication to improving the lives of stranded Indians has earned her widespread recognition and admiration. Her unwavering commitment to social service has left an indelible mark on the lives of thousands of individuals who were once trapped in desperate situations abroad.

   • Assisted 1,800 unpaid Indian workers stuck in Kuwait in January 2018      
   • Defended for the rights of 186 stranded workers in Saudi Arabia
   • Assisting stranded Indians in Middle Eastern countries (Saudi Arabia, Dubai, Qatar, Kuwait)
   • Repatriation of stranded workers
   • Support for abused and exploited individuals abroad
   • Helped over 7,000 stranded workers, maids, and seafarers
   • Helped fisherman Sailors to reparite home
   • As an animal lover, frequently engage in rescuing and caring for animals in need.

Awards and Recognition

While Sayyed's work is driven by her genuine desire to help others, her efforts & contributions have garnered appreciation and acknowledgments from various organizations and communities.Certificate of Appreciation from Mother Teresa Foundation Mrs. Shaheen Sayyed, State Secretary Maharashtra, Mother Teresa Foundation, was awarded a Certificate of Appreciation for her outstanding support and humanitarian work during the lockdown period of the COVID-19 pandemic. Her dedication and efforts in fighting against the virus and serving the nation were recognized and acknowledged by the foundation.

Social Media Links

   • Twitter - https://twitter.com/shaheensayyed_?t=h1FvVM36ob-yswKK3sahww&s=09
   • Email - shahin_ sayyed@yahoo.com