RoVena is short for “Rohingya” and “Vein”

Our mission is to be a life-affirming channel for education access. We are a New York-based nonprofit driven by refugees and advocates for educational equity.

Why We Exist

We work across borders to bridge the gap left by government policies, NGO limits, and systemic injustice. Our efforts focus on providing secondary and post-secondary education opportunities outside of the camp environment. We believe educational equity is not only necessary— it’s achievable.

While Rohingya refugees have access to basic learning centers and community-led schools within the camps, these programs are often unaccredited, limited in resources, and capped at primary education. RoVena steps in where others stop-connecting refugee youth to international learning opportunities, scholarships, and reforms which push for inclusion in national education systems.

Our Team

Farihah Ahmed | Founder and Executive Director

Farihah’s interests include intersectional education, arts, and health solutions design for refugees. She is an alumna of Duke University, Columbia University’s College of Dental Medicine, and Columbia University’s School of the Arts. She is based in New York and at work on a novel about the Rohingya.

Photo: Nush Photography

Sirajul Islam | Co-Founder

Sirajul is a young Rohingya who has dedicated his life to writing and activism. He is a poet, writer, and human rights activist. He is originally from Myanmar, but in 2017 he fled to Bangladesh to seek refuge from the genocide perpetrated by the Myanmar military.

Sirajul has internationally published two collections of poetry which amplify the voices of his people, highlight their plight on the global stage, and advocate for justice and equality. Through his poetry, Sirajul strengthens the voice of his community and continues to bring their struggles for freedom to the world’s attention.

Opportunity

Equity

Excellence

Opportunity • Equity • Excellence

Our Why

We’re a global team of educators, advocates, and refugees. From remote learning programs to advocacy for systemic reform, RoVena is committed to helping refugees access higher education.

Multidisciplinary learning programs

Our online programs provide refugees with real-world skills, mentorship, and development opportunities they can access from anywhere

Policy Reform & Partnerships

We advocate for refugee inclusion in national education systems and partner with global institutions to push for lasting reform.

Amplifying voices

We are committed to platforming refugee concerns at the universal scale through ongoing dialogue, cross-disciplinary networks, and international forums

We Align With Global Mandates

Our work supports the UNHCR’s 2022–2026 Strategic Directions and aligns with the Global Compact on Refugees. We prioritize diverse partnerships and localization to build a sustainable and equitable education ecosystem.


We envision a world where every refugee — regardless of borders, barriers, or politics — has the opportunity to pursue learning, grow their potential, and shape their own future.

Over 1 million Rohinga refugees in Bangladesh comprise the largest refugee camp in the world

Education shouldn’t stop at borders — and with your help, it won’t. Whether you’re here to teach, collaborate, or simply support the cause, there’s a place for you in the RoVena community.