10 Pakistani women who made headlines and for good reason

From ASP Shehrbano’s fearless intervention in Lahore averting a potential calamity to Nadia Jamil’s unrelenting protest against child sexual abuse to businesswoman Shaista Asif receiving recognition from Forbes, the years 2023-2024 were marked by strong women determined to change the world. Join us as we delve into the inspiring stories of these women who, through their courage and accomplishments, contribute to reshaping the narrative of women’s roles in Pakistan.

1. ASP Shehrbano Naqvi

Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Shehrbano Naqvi, stationed at Gulberg Circle, bravely thwarted a potential mob attack on a young woman in Lahore. The incident, fueled by confusion and miscommunication regarding the Arabic calligraphy on the woman’s dress, was skillfully diffused by the lady cop. Refusing to disclose the woman’s identity, she clarified that the calligraphy did not contain Quranic verses and belonged to a foreign Muslim country’s brand. From the internet to local and international media outlets, ASP Shehrbano became a figure of daring and hope in a society where patriarchal violence and the audacity to point fingers at women’s clothing remains a distressing reality.

2. Maryam Nawaz

As the general election of 2024 rounded up with final results pouring in, Maryam Nawaz, a prominent leader of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), was elected as Punjab’s Chief Minister—the first woman to hold this position in the country. Maryam secured a resounding victory, defeating the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI)-backed candidate, Rana Aftab Ahmad Khan, with an overwhelming 220 votes. While embroiled in deep controversy and rigging allegations, Maryam’s victory has been lauded by many as an unprecedented win for women and a step forward for gender inclusivity in Pakistani politics.

3. Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy

Renowned Pakistani filmmaker behind Oscar-winning documentary shorts Saving Face and A Girl in the River, Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy is set to direct a new Star Wars film, marking a groundbreaking moment for the franchise. Co-writing the script with Damon Lindelof, Obaid-Chinoy’s film is set after the events of Star Wars Episode IX: The Rise of Skywalker and features Daisy Ridley reprising her role as Rey. This project makes Sharmeen the first woman and person of color to direct a Star Wars film, contributing to a series of milestones for the iconic franchise.

4. Nadia Jamil

Celebrated veteran Pakistani actor Nadia Jamil has made her name in showbiz for her craft but her marvels go beyond the screen. With her candid retellings of her painful experience of child sexual abuse, the actor has made it her mission to shed light on the prevalent societal issue. Urging the need for awareness, prevention and support for survivors, Nadia underlines the grim reality she faced like countless others. Disclosing her traumatic ordeal and the subsequent healing process, the actor has underscored how CSA gained significance in light of the Kasur incident, inspiring her to speak out and outline practical measures for prevention, including poverty alleviation, education, social awareness campaigns and teaching children about boundaries.

5. Mahrang Baloch