Meet the Finalists 2023-24

Dr. Abid Ali Malik

University of Sheffield

A renowned psychiatrist, Dr. Abid has contributed to mental health leadership in 22 EMRO countries. As a Fellow of the Royal College of Psychiatry, he paved the way for impactful global interventions and advocacy for mental health policies, like WHO's Thinking Healthy Program for perinatal depression. His journey showcases dedication to addressing global mental health challenges through clinical practice, research, and leadership.

Dr. Khuram Pervez Amber

London South Bank University

A key contributor to Pakistan's policymaking on building energy management, climate change, and sustainability. Dr. Khuram is currently the Chairperson of the Mechanical Engineering Department at MUST. His problem-solving approach, evident in the Mangla Hydro Power Plant and an energy-efficient stove for hilly communities, showcases his impact on national industries.

Prof. Dr. Saima Yasin

Imperial College London

A distinguished scholar and founder of the Punjab Chapter of the Society of Women Engineers, USA, Dr. Saima boasts of 49 peer-reviewed publications and 2 book chapters. She made history as the first female engineering professor and chairperson at UET Lahore in its 100-year history. She also secured competitive grants totalling approximately Rs 110M, emphasizing her commitment to societal well-being.

Saad Masood Zuberi

City, University of London

A renowned journalist and filmmaker, Saad's work has featured on global platforms like BBC and Al Jazeera, creating a significant influence on social awareness and policy reforms about human rights and social issues. Nominated for esteemed awards such as the Emmy and International Documentary Association Award, his documentaries showcase a commitment to public interest journalism.

Ghulam Hyder Daudpota

University of Wales

A leading visual Islamic and traditional artist, exceling in Ceramics and Geometry in Pakistan, Ghulam contributes to the restoration of historical buildings and promotes traditional arts education. He established NITA Crafts Development Cooperative Society in Nasarpur in an effort to preserve traditional arts.

Dr Rizwana Abbasi

University of Leicester

An Academian, who has jouneyed across global platforms securing fellowships in USA, Dr. Rizwana engaged in over 60 national conferences and earned accolades, including three best research awards from HEC and NDU. She joined NUML in 2019, as an associate professor, contributing to policy advice, scholarly research, and board memberships.

Dr Tanvir Ahmad

Durham University

Currently holding the position of Energy Officer and Country Focal Person for Climate Change at UNHCR Pakistan, leading efforts to tackle energy access challenges in humanitarian contexts for Afghan refugees and their Pakistani host communities. Dr. Tanvir has also been associated with UNDP, UNIDO, SAARC Energy Center, and USAID projects, where he has overseen programs focused on technology transfer, energy management, and sustainability in the South Asian region.

Haya Emaan Zahid

City, University of London

A prison reforms practitioner, Haya is transforming Pakistan's corrections system. Since 2009, she has championed legal aid, drafted progressive prison laws, and decongested prisons. Her global perspective contributes to adaptive leadership, expediting trials, and improving living conditions. With key board positions and committee roles, she leads nationwide prison reform, emphasizing humane justice outcomes.

Zile Huma

Univeristy of Oxford

A civil servant advocating for climate change, human rights, and democracy as the Deputy Secretary at the Governor's Secretariat, Huma is dedicated to empowering marginalized communities, initiating impactful campaigns like the Voters Education Awareness Campaign. She aims to foster regional collaboration on climate change, driven by the tangible impact of her education.

Dr. Iffat Zafar Aga

University of Edinburgh

Co-founder and COO of Sehat Kahani, a Pakistani telemedicine startup, Dr. Iffat is revolutionizing healthcare accessibility, earning accolades like the USAID SHIFT Prize, Heroines of Healthcare Award from the World Health Summit, and Forbes recognition. Under her leadership, her organization established a network of 63 E-Health centres, conducted over 2.6 million online consultations, and secured a groundbreaking Series A investment.