Staff Reporter The inaugural edition of HUM Women Leaders Award held at the Governor House honoured and celebrated 11 iconic women from Pakistan and abroad and a dynamic man for their contributions and achievement in the fields of diplomacy, finance, social work, healthcare, adventure sports, human rights, journalism and women’s rights. The awards ceremony was graced by Dr Arif Alvi, President of Pakistan, HE Paul W Jones, the US Ambassador to Pakistan, honourable consul generals, Governor Sindh Imran Ismail, dignitaries and crème de la crème of the entertainment industry of Pakistan. Chief Guest of the event, Dr Arif Alvi President Islamic Republic of Pakistan while addressing the attendees said, “The Quaid e Azam once said that nations cannot progress without women working side by side with the men. From one fourth quota system for women in medical and engineering colleges back in the 80s to almost 80 percent representation of women in these institutions today, our nation has come a long way but only 10 percent these women make it to the workplace.” Hosted by Mira Sethi, the awards ceremony began with the first award presented to mountaineer Samina Baig The second award of the evening was given to Jalila Haider, the first female attorney of Hazara community by Sania Saeed. This was followed by a special obituary package, paying tribute to all the iconic women of the past who have made a mark with their resilience and tremendous success, and are a source of inspiration for women and men around the world. Barrister Khadija Siddiqi received her award from Mahira Khan. The next recipient was Narges Abyar, the acclaimed Iranian film director who received her award from Madiha Saeed and Zeba Bakhtiar. The second segment of the awards, hosted by Sanam Saeed commenced with Dr Fouzia Saeed receiving her award from the Italian Consul General Anna Ruffino and Javed Sheikh in recognition of her exemplary services. Ace actor Bushra Ansari was next to receive her award from Asima Haq and Bunto Kazmi in recognition of her years of contributions to television and cinema. The next award was given to Mary Robinson, the first woman President of Ireland and a forceful advocate for gender equality, women’s participation in peace-building and human dignity. Shewas unable to attend the event due to work commitments and addressed the attendees via a video message, thanking the awards committee for the honour. The next award was presented to Dr Seemin Jamali in recognition of her outstanding services in the public sector and medical profession. The last segment began with the first award presented to the only man awardee of the night, Omar Aftab, a globally recognized campaign strategist for women’s and child health, economic and social development and his work for social justice and human rights. Zubeida Mustafa was next to receive her award from Governor Sindh, Imran Ismail The next award was given to Dr Shamshad Akhtar The award was presented by the first lady Mrs Samina Alvi. The last award of the night was presented to Maleeha Lodhi for her brilliant diplomatic career The programme concluded with a special performance by Hadiqa Kiyani.
