Pakistan's First Lady Aseefa Bhutto Zardari Promotes UAE Model For Women's Empowerment At Global Forum

Aseefa Bhutto Zardari, the First Lady of Pakistan, urged young women to draw inspiration from the UAE's achievements in women's representation in public service. At the Global Women’s Forum Dubai (GWFD 2024), she highlighted the importance of such global events in shaping policies that encourage women's active participation in public service and empowerment.

During her conversation with Hadley Gamble from Al Arabiya, Aseefa emphasised that platforms like GWFD are crucial for creating opportunities for women to excel and make a significant impact. The session was attended by notable figures including H.H. Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Mona Ghanem Al Marri, and Hala Badri.

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Aseefa praised the UAE's progress as a model for others to emulate, stressing the need for more avenues for women in public service. She encouraged young women to strive for justice, opportunity, and equality, urging them to "seize opportunities and learn from the UAE’s example." She acknowledged that women often work harder than men for less recognition but remain a resilient force.

Addressing global challenges faced by women, Aseefa pointed out issues like inequality, security concerns, and limited access to healthcare and education. She underscored the importance of voting as a means for women to amplify their voices and effect change.

Aseefa Bhutto Zardari is the youngest daughter of former Pakistan Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto and two-time President Asif Ali Zardari. Her appointment as First Lady marks a historic moment as it is the first time a daughter holds this title instead of a wife of an incumbent president.

She shared her personal journey: "I have only recently become First Lady, as my father became president, and as a widower, he decided to name his youngest daughter the First Lady in order to fill the role and make sure that we have a strong representative for women and women’s rights."

Message to Young Women

Aseefa urged young women to believe in themselves, uphold their values, and never underestimate their voice's power. She stated that leadership is defined by purpose and persistence rather than privilege or position. "True leadership lies in service to others at the pursuit for justice, opportunity and equality for all," she said.

Encouraging future generations, she concluded with a powerful message: "My message to the younger generation would be that you are the architects of a brighter future." Her words aim to inspire young women globally to embrace education, empathy, and commitment towards uplifting those around them.

With inputs from WAM