Los Angeles (AINA) -- At the Assyrian Universal Alliance's 26th World Congress held in Sydney, Australia, in May 2009, Rosie Malek-Yonan, author of The Crimson Field, was named as "the 2009 Assyrian Woman of the Year" for her substantial contribution in advancing the Assyrian national cause by promoting international recognition of the Assyrian Genocide and for her extensive efforts in conveying the needs of the Assyrians to the United States government.

This prestigious award is given annually to well-known individuals in both the Assyrian and Non Assyrian communities in acknowledgment of their achievements in providing individual service to the Assyrian community worldwide.

The selection process of the AUA 26th World Congress was made after a special committee chose a number of names that included those who have achieved excellence in community accomplishments, leadership and service.

The Assyrian Universal Alliance is a member of Unrepresented Nations and Peoples Organization (UNPO).