Jelen Amador

In the heart of Barcelona's Zona Franca district, a neighborhood often associated with economic challenges and social marginalization, Jelen Amador emerged as a beacon of resilience and determination. Born into a Romani family, she navigated a society rife with stereotypes and systemic barriers, yet chose to confront these challenges head-on through education and activism.

Amador's academic journey is marked by a series of pioneering accomplishments. She earned a Bachelor's degree in Law from Pompeu Fabra University, followed by a Master's in Citizenship and Human Rights from the University of Barcelona. Her pursuit of knowledge culminated in a PhD in Sociology, with research focusing on the intersection of religion and gender within the Roma community. Her doctoral work, particularly her study on the Evangelical Church of Philadelphia's role in addressing gender inequalities among Romani women, garnered significant recognition. In 2016, she was awarded the Young Sociologists Prize by the Institute of Catalan Studies, highlighting the impact of her research on both academic and community levels.

Beyond her scholarly pursuits, Amador has been deeply involved in initiatives aimed at empowering Roma women. She has collaborated with organizations such as Drom Kotar Mestipen, contributing to programs like the "Roma Women Student Gatherings" (Trobades), which foster intergenerational dialogue and support for Roma women pursuing education.

Amador's work extends to addressing broader social issues affecting the Roma community. She co-authored a study on the protective factors promoted by the Iglesia Evangélica Filadelfia in combating drug use and mental health problems among Roma individuals, shedding light on the positive role of faith-based organizations in community health.

Throughout her career, Amador has emphasized the importance of maintaining cultural identity while pursuing academic and professional goals. She has spoken candidly about the challenges of navigating educational spaces that often lack representation and understanding of Roma culture. Yet, she asserts that her academic experiences have strengthened her connection to her heritage, stating, "I wondered if going to university meant to be less Roma. Now, I realise that after my university experience I feel more Roma and I also maintain my identity."

Jelen Amador's journey reflects a broader narrative of empowerment and transformation within the Roma community. Her dedication to education, research, and advocacy serves as an inspiration to many, illustrating how perseverance and commitment can challenge societal norms and pave the way for future generations.