Laila Naz Taj Receives Dukhtaran-e-Pakistan Award

ISLAMABAD : Laila Naz Taj, a development professional serving as a director at the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) in Pakistan, has received the Dukhtaran-e-Pakistan Excellence Award 2026 in recognition of her contributions to human development, public policy and humanitarian response.

Senate Chairman Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani attended the ceremony as chief guest, while the federal minister for poverty alleviation and social safety presented the award.

The award recognises women whose leadership and professional achievements have contributed to Pakistan’s social, economic and institutional development. The citation acknowledged Taj’s commitment to public service, nation-building and community empowerment.

A graduate of Harvard Business School and the London School of Economics, Taj has worked in Pakistan, the United Kingdom, the United States and Afghanistan. Her work has involved collaboration with governments, communities, development partners and civil society organisations on poverty reduction, climate resilience, disaster risk reduction, education and inclusive development.

She currently serves as director at the Aga Khan Development Network in Pakistan, supporting strategic engagement on key national development priorities.

In her acceptance remarks, Taj expressed gratitude to Allah Almighty, the Government of Pakistan and the selection committee for recognising her contributions. She reaffirmed her commitment to serving marginalised communities through AKDN and advancing integrated, community-driven development.

She also acknowledged the guidance and encouragement of her parents and mentors, pledging to continue contributing to Pakistan’s progress and the betterment of humanity.

The award was conferred by the Pakistan Poverty Alleviation Fund in collaboration with the Ministry of Poverty Alleviation and Social Safety, Ministry of Defence, Ministry of Culture and National Heritage, and the Islamabad Centre of National Cohesion and Outreach.

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