Pakistan’s history is replete with inspiring women who have left their mark on politics, science, education, literature and sports. These pioneering women broke rules, defied conventions and opened doors for generations to come. Without them, the nations would never be able to get where it is today.
Here are 15 Pakistani women whose exploits continue to inspire millions.
1. Fatima Jinnah (1893–1967)
A principal leader of the Pakistan Movement, Fatima Jinnah, sister of Muhmmad Ali Jinnah, opposed the military regime and is known as the ‘Mother of the Nation’ for her role in achieving independence for the nation.
2. Benazir Bhutto (1953–2007)
The first female Prime Minister of a Muslim-majority state, Benazir Bhutto was an advocate for women’s rights and economic reforms. Years after her passing away, she remains to be an enduring symbol of democracy and strength.
3. Malala Yousafzai (1997– )
An education activist and youngest ever Nobel Prize winner, Malala survived an assassination attempt by the Taliban and continues to campaign for girls’ education through the Malala Fund.
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4. Asma Jahangir (1952–2018)
A brave human rights lawyer, Asma Jahangir championed women, minorities and political activists, and emerged as the voice of justice in Pakistan and the world at large.
5. Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy (1978– )
As a two-time Oscar-winning documentarian, Sharmeen brought attention to issues such as honour killings and acid attacks in her films, precipitating international debates on human rights.
6. Bilquis Edhi (1928–2022)
A philanthropist and humanitarian, Bilquis Edhi was an integral part of the Edhi Foundation, providing shelter and care to thousands of orphans and vulnerable people.
7. Tehmina Durrani (1953– )
Tehmina Durrani is a writer and activist whose book My Feudal Lord revealed gender domination in Pakistan’s feudal society and sparked debates regarding women’s rights.
8. Samina Baig (1990– )
Samina Baig is the first Pakistani female to climb Mount Everest and accomplish the Seven Summits feat, inspiring women for adventure sports.
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9. Arfa Karim Randhawa (1995–2012)
Arfa Karim, the computer prodigy who was the youngest Microsoft Certified Professional at age nine, demonstrated Pakistan’s potential in international technology.
10. Malika Pukhraj (1912–2004)
A great classical and folk singer, Malika Pukhraj’s evergreen music continues to inspire generations of Pakistani artists.
11. Naseem Hameed (1988– )
Naseem Hameed is Pakistan’s fastest woman who won the gold medal in the 100m sprint at the 2010 South Asian Games, and broke barriers for women athletes all over the country.
12. Abida Parveen (1954– )
Abida Parveen is one of the greatest Sufi singers in the world. Her soul-moving music has crossed borders, spreading peace and spirituality.
13. Hina Rabbani Khar (1977– )
Pakistan’s first woman Foreign Minister, Hina Rabbani Khar, was a key figure in global diplomacy, especially enhancing regional ties.
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14. Sana Mir (1986– )
Sana Mir was the former Pakistan women’s cricket team captain, who took the team to gold at the Asian Games and became an international ambassador for women’s sport.
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15. Yasmeen Lari (1941– )
Yasmeen Lari is Pakistan’s first woman architect. She promotes sustainable, low-cost housing, especially for communities hit by disasters.
These women, in their resolve and determination, keep defining the history of Pakistan and demonstrating that courage and determination can shatter any obstacle
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