Leading Ladies: Transforming Pakistan through Women’s Leadership
Islamabad : Maria Rafique President of PHRN, delivered an inspiring welcome address, emphasizing the power of women’s leadership in driving positive change. She recognized the accomplishments of Pakistani women who are breaking barriers and paving the way for future generations. In Pakistan, women make up approximately 51% of the total population, yet their representation in leadership positions is significantly lower. Currently, only 20% of National Assembly members, 17% of Senate members, and 11-15% of provincial assembly members are women.
Maria Rafique President of PHRN, and Mughiza Imtiaz, Director of the Women’s Right Committee, Pakistan Human Resource Network (PHRN), organized a thought-provoking session, “Leading Women: Transforming Pakistan through Women Leadership,” at SZABIST, with collaboration of Shaheed Bhutto Foundation (SBF) emphasizing the crucial role of women’s leadership in shaping Pakistan’s future. “As we empower women, we empower a nation. Women’s leadership is the key to unlocking Pakistan’s true potential,” said Ms. Mughiza Imtiaz. PHRN is committed to promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment, and we will continue to work tirelessly towards creating a more inclusive and equitable society. The event hosted by Ms. Rabia Khan.
Women’s empowerment is a critical component of sustainable development, as it enables women to participate fully in economic, social, and political spheres. The Constitution of Pakistan 1973 guarantees gender equality under Article 25, which states: “All citizens are equal before law and are entitled to equal protection of law.” Moreover, Article 34 ensures: “Steps shall be taken to promote social and economic well-being of the people, especially of the weaker segments of society.”
However, we are inspired by the trailblazing achievements of women like Senator Sherry Rahman, Dr. Anita Ghulam Ali, Dr. Sania Nishtar, Sadaff Hassan, Samina Baig, Major General Nigar Johar, Air Commodore Shazia Ahmed, Sara Gill, and Dr. Fatima Hassan, who have shattered glass ceilings and paved the way for future generations. Her words energized the audience, encouraging them to continue advocating for women’s empowerment and gender equality.
The event featured insightful speeches from esteemed speakers, including Ms. Afshan Tehseen Bajwa, Mr. Asif Khan, Ms. Manal Sohail, Ms. Jannan Gul, Additional Secretary of IHCBA Ms. Nusrat Parveen and Ms. Tahira Naimat.
Ms.Afshan Tehseen(Ex-Chairperson of NCRC) in her speech said that empowering women and girls is not only a constitutional right, but a collective responsibility. Let us transform Pakistan by challenging mindsets, promoting gender equality, and unleashing the potential of women leadership.
Advocate Ms. Valerie Khan, a renowned gender expert, delivered a powerful keynote address, emphasizing the importance of gender equality and women’s leadership in shaping Pakistan’s future. She stressed, “Women’s participation in decision-making processes is crucial for a prosperous Pakistan.”
Ms. Manal Sohail, Trainer/Educationist and Anthropologist from Quaid e Azam University, highlighted the need for gender-sensitive education and cultural shift.
Mr. Asif Khan, CEO of Shaheed Bhutto Foundation, highlighted the foundation’s initiatives to promote women’s empowerment and gender equality.
MS. Tahira Naimat, Leading Woman in Technology, shared her inspiring journey and stressed the need for women in STEM fields.
Former Senator Mr. Farhat ullah Babar(PPP) the chief guest, applauded PHRN’s efforts and emphasized the importance of women’s leadership in Pakistan’s progress and prosperity. He quoted Benazir Bhutto, “The world must recognize the immense potential of women and girls, and work to empower them.”
The event concluded with a call to action, encouraging participants to become agents of change and support women leadership in Pakistan.