PODA Rural Women Leadership Alliance - Pakistan

Three days of learning, leadership and powerful stories come to a close. Grateful to all the women, speakers, partners and participants who made the #19th_Annual_Rural_Women_Leadership_Training_Conference a celebration of women’s strength and leadership. #WomenLeadership

Mr. @TararAttaullah , Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting, reaffirmed that Pakistani women are second to none. He highlighted women’s talent, strength and potential, stressing the importance of empowerment and equal opportunities. #WomenLeadership

Saman Ahsan of UN Women called for equal rights, opportunities, freedom and support for Pakistani women to reach their full potential. She also expressed solidarity with the women of Yemen, calling for peace, justice and equality. #WomenLeadership

Ms. Shaheena Sher Ali, Minister for Women Development, Sindh, highlighted initiatives empowering women to lead, achieve economic independence and claim their rights, including farmer support, Pink Scooties and many more. #WomenLeadership

Mr. Khurram Shahzad, Head Programmes & Special Initiatives, PPAF, shared valuable insights at PODA’s Closing Plenary, highlighting inclusive development and economic empowerment for rural women. #WomenLeadership

Amal Pasha from Yemen encouraged Pakistani women to believe in themselves and never see themselves as less capable. She reminded women that choosing to learn, lead and step beyond their comfort zones is itself a sign of success. #WomenLeadership

Ms. Samina Nazir shared valuable insights during the Closing Plenary of PODA’s 19th Annual Rural Women Leadership Training Conference, marking the conclusion of three days of learning, dialogue and leadership. #WomenLeadership

Women from KP, Punjab & Balochistan shared inspiring Olive Culture success stories, turning skills and opportunities into livelihoods, businesses and confidence. 🌿 #WomenLeadership

Mr. Paolo Gallizioli emphasized gender equality, economic empowerment and real opportunities for rural women, highlighting Olive Culture’s efforts to support women’s financial independence through agriculture. #WomenLeadership

Dr. Francesco De Musso highlighted the importance of olive cultivation and its potential to create sustainable opportunities for rural communities and women in agriculture. #WomenLeadership

Fozia Kanwal moderated the session “Empowering Women in Agriculture in Pakistan: Challenges and Opportunities,” bringing together important perspectives on women’s role, challenges and opportunities in the agricultural sector. #WomenLeadership

A powerful theatre performance by a young woman with a disability, joined by a group of performers, delivered a strong message: we don’t need pity we deserve respect, dignity and equal opportunities. #WomenLeadership

Punjab MPA Shameela Aslam highlighted that disability does not define a person’s worth or abilities. She encouraged women to value themselves, protect their dignity and never see themselves as less than others. #WomenLeadership

Naseem Akhtar shared her powerful life experiences, highlighting resilience, courage and the importance of inclusion, accessibility and equal opportunities for persons with disabilities. #WomenLeadership

Bushra Tabassum from AJK shared her inspiring journey as a woman with a disability, highlighting her work in politics, business and the NGO sector. Her independence and determination reflect confidence, resilience and empowerment. #WomenLeadership

Naima Hassan, Mental Health Psychologist and former UN professional, emphasized respectful language, reducing stigma and creating inclusive, supportive spaces for all. #WomenLeadership

Abia Akram encouraged families and communities not to let persons with disabilities feel discouraged or isolated. She emphasized supporting and empowering them, building their confidence, and creating opportunities for a dignified and independent life. #WomenLeadership

Huma Irshad, a Women Leader and PODA partner, shared her personal journey and experience as a woman with a disability. Through her story, she highlighted the importance of inclusion, empowerment and creating equal opportunities for persons with disabilities. #WomenLeadership

Imrana Rubab highlighted the Himmat Card’s eligibility, disability criteria, registration process and financial support. She urged families to register persons with disabilities so they can access their rights, benefits and support. #WomenLeadership