My Story
Roots and Wings
“Education and Resilience Root You in the Struggle for Justice”.
This is not just my story; it is a collective vision for a brighter tomorrow and a promise that together, we can create a world filled with possibility and hope.
From a verdant village in Sargodha where sunlight dances over orange groves and children’s laughter fills the air, I embarked on a quest for knowledge. As a young girl, curiosity guided my exploration, igniting a lifelong passion for knowledge and dreams. I witnessed the struggles of bonded laborers’ families and the silent resilience of marginalized communities. Determined to advocate for the voiceless, I embraced education as the key to emancipation.
As I grew, so did my dreams. Transitioning into a chemistry lecturer, I embraced the significance of mentorship and committed myself to creating an inclusive classroom where every student felt valued and inspired. Yet, the call for social justice resonated deeper, propelling me beyond classrooms into the vibrant arena of advocacy, challenging discrimination. As Executive Director of a nonprofit, I dedicated myself to advancing social justice by advocating for the rights of minorities, women, and children.
In my role as a Commissioner at the National Commission on the Rights of the Child, I worked passionately to amplify the voices of the most vulnerable, striving to protect their rights and create opportunities for a better tomorrow. The laughter of children echoed in my mind, reminding me why I chose this path.
In a world where darkness often overshadow light, my journey unfolded as a dance between challenge and triumph. As a woman and a member of a religious minority in Pakistan, a predominantly Muslim country, I faced hurdles that seemed insurmountable. Yet, in moments of struggle, I unearthed a resilience I never knew I possessed. Inspired by my mother, a constant source of strength and courage, I learned that true leadership lies in empowering and uplifting those around you. During my time as a researcher at Stanford University and Eastern Mennonite University, I deepened my understanding and reshaped my worldview, enriching my approach to challenges.
From the heart of a small village to the global stage, my journey as an advocate for the rights of children, women, and religious minorities is rooted in a commitment to human rights, leadership, and education. It’s a story shaped by passion, resilience, and an unyielding belief in the power of transformation. I am committed to dismantling barriers, empowering future generations, and building a world where every child can dream freely and without limits.