Data Journalist & Reporter · New York City Somaiyah Hafeez

Columbia University · M.S. Data Journalism

I'm a data journalist and reporter at Reach Plc, producing breaking news and data-driven investigations using public records, analysis, and visualization. Before moving to New York, I worked as a freelance journalist in Pakistan. My work has appeared in The Guardian, New Lines Magazine, The New Humanitarian, and The Diplomat. I cover human rights, climate, immigration, and Balochistan.

The Mirror · Irish Star · The Express Selected Work
ICE arrests New York
The Mirror · Data Analysis

60% of ICE arrests in New York had no criminal charges

Analyzed the federal ICE arrest dataset across New York State.

Mass shootings map
The Mirror · Data Reporting

Mass Shooting Map Reveals Numbers

Interactive look at mass shootings across the U.S., highlighting trends and patterns.

The Mirror · Mapping

Interactive map shows impact of SNAP benefits freeze

Visualizing which states and counties are most affected by benefit freezes.

Early voter turnout NYC
The Mirror · Elections

Here's how New Yorkers voted early

Cleaned and analyzed early voting data to reveal borough-level turnout patterns.

The Mirror · Elections

Inside the New York borough that flipped in elections

Voting and demographic data combined to analyze political shifts at borough level.

Florida executions data
The Mirror · Data Reporting

Florida sets new record for executions

Analyzed state execution data to reveal trends and context behind the record.

Measles cases by state
The Mirror · Health Data

State reports highest number of measles cases

Analyzed CDC data to track outbreak trends and state-level incidence.

Nuclear weapons data
The Mirror · Defense Data

US lags behind Russia in nuclear weapons, data shows

Used arms control datasets to compare nuclear stockpiles and spending trends.

ICE Illinois arrests
The Mirror · Data Analysis

ICE data shows surge in Illinois arrests — youngest detained aged 3

Investigated ICE arrest and deportation data in Illinois.

Protesters Oct 7 anniversary
The Mirror · Field Reporting

Protesters drive 500 miles to speak out

Reported on protests in New York City on the anniversary of Oct. 7.

Sudan war
The Express · Conflict

Sudan's forgotten war: 260,000 people on brink of massacre

Interviewed experts to highlight Sudan crisis impacts.

Investigative & Longform 4 Projects
International Publications 12 Stories
Featured Broadcasts 3 Videos

Quick-turn Visualizations 6 Charts
Charlie Kirk locator map
Age of Presidents
ICE arrests NYC
Texas measles
Executive orders
Inflation
Recognition & Awards