To Our Ericas and Namiras: A Tribute to Inspirational Pakistan Women of 2023

Women around the world are a perfect assemblage of beauty, elegance, stability, fortitude and resilience. This strength of character is by no means in scarcity in the Land of the Pure. Benazir Bhutto was the first woman to lead a democratic government in a Muslim majority country. Asma Jahangir, a well-known human rights lawyer, established the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan. Muniba Mazari, a motivational speaker and artist, is the National Ambassador for UN Women Pakistan. Other famous personalities include Atiya Khan, a sustainable development architect, and Samina Baig, the first Pakistani woman to summit Mount Everest. These women exemplify endurance, leadership, and competence in diverse spheres of life, making major strides towards greatness in Pakistan and beyond. But what about the feminine pioneers in Pakistan of today’s day and age?

Most of you may have heard of these stoic personalities sandwiched between the headlines of great distress within the country, so here I am reminding you all of their existence.

 Narrowing it down to three-standout women of this year, let us begin the tribute with Pakistani’s debutante to the Miss Universe; Miss Erica Robins. Born in Karachi, Erica Robin bore the torch of Pakistani pride in the Miss Universe competition, in 2023. Not only did she place among the top 20 competitors from 80 competing nations, but she also created a stir with her culturally significant ensembles. While her spectacular voyage drew enormous accolades, it also sparked a heated and polarizing discussion about whether she should carry the mantle of being the nation's spokesperson on the global arena. Erica exuded elegance with her one-of-a-kind decision, wearing a muted pink burkini during the swimsuit round, a first in the competition's 72-year history. Her representation not only emphasized the contribution of a minority population within Pakistan, but also the undeniable cultural distinctiveness of this land.

Another commendable individual that deserves our undeniable gratitude is Pakistan’s first female astronaut, Namira Salim. Salim has a reputation for being a daring adventurer all through her life. Salim is one of 100 space travellers who boarded Virgin Galactic's first commercial space trips, which were set to begin operations in 2009.

From conquering the Poles, to skydiving from the heights of Mount Everest; her aptitude to do the unthinkable has been an inspiration for Pakistani and Muslim women all around the globe. Her philanthropic contributions as a diplomat and humanitarian benefactor cannot be overlooked, while acknowledging her talent for daring feats. She was appointed as an honorary consul of Pakistan to Monaco, on the recommendation of the Pakistani government in 2011. Moreover, the Power 100 Trailblazer Award by Pakistan Power 100 had been previously bestowed upon her in 2013 for her unequivocal achievements as an ambassador of peace. Namira Salim's endeavours represent the convergence of science, art, and diplomacy, encouraging others to reach for the stars while securing international admiration for Pakistani women.

The next trailblazer in our list of empowered women is a personality who has seen this country come to life. An honoury mention, as her recent passing has created a significant void in the journalism within Pakistan. Shahida Kazi is predominantly recognized as Pakistan's first female correspondent who has a career that spans over decades in both print and television journalism. At a time when journalism was considered unsuitable for women, she had applied for a degree in the field in the year 1963. Her first assignment involved the visit of foreign diplomats in Pakistan, which was given a front-page review. According to her, her most memorable journalistic achievement was covering the occasion of Fatimah Jinnah’s death. Donning the nickname “Meena Bazaar Reporter '', she shattered all glass ceilings in her pathway to put an end to gender discrimination within her field in Pakistan. Later in life, she took on the role of being an academic mentor and writer, facilitating the dreams of promising journalists in Pakistan. Her autobiography” Sweet, Sour, and Bitter: A Life Well Lived” is a worthwhile read as a testament to the bravery and perseverance of a Pakistani woman in the face of overwhelming adversity.

Lastly, let us honour a group of extraordinary ladies in this renowned lineup of strong Pakistani women who had contributed to the rich tapestry of resilience and empowerment. Naila Kayani, the first Pakistani mountaineer to conquer 6 peaks worldwide. Yasmeen Lari, the visionary who is revolutionizing Pakistan’s rural architecture to combat climate change. Muneeba Ali, the first Pakistani female cricketer to complete a T20I century in  2023. Iman Vellani who is our very own Miss Marvel, gaining widespread praise for her portrayal as a South Asian superhero. Last but not the least, Afroze-Numa and Neha Mankani clearly deserve our immense gratitude as a part of BBC's 100 inspiring women of 2023.