Laila Naz Taj has been honored with the Dukhtaran-e-Pakistan Excellence Award 2026 for her outstanding work in Pakistan’s social and institutional growth. The ceremony featured Senate Chairman Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani as the chief guest. The federal minister for Poverty Alleviation and Social Safety presented the award to her.
The Dukhtaran-e-Pakistan Excellence Awards celebrate women who show strong leadership, professional skill, and deep dedication. These women help build Pakistan’s social, economic, and institutional strength. The citation for Taj highlighted her strong focus on nation-building, public service, and empowering others.
Taj is an alumna of Harvard Business School and the London School of Economics. She has worked in Pakistan, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Afghanistan. In these places she has partnered with governments, local communities, development groups, civil society, and key institutions. Her goal has always been to turn policy ideas into real, practical results that improve lives.
While accepting the award, Taj renewed her promise to support marginalized communities through the Aga Khan Development Network. She stressed the value of integrated and community-driven development that creates lasting change. She also thanked her parents and mentors. Their guidance inspired her to chase excellence through both success and steady effort.
Taj made a clear pledge. She will keep working for national progress and the betterment of humanity. She will do this with full dedication, humility, and a lasting commitment to high standards.
The award was given by the Pakistan Poverty Alleviation Fund in partnership with the Ministry of Poverty Alleviation and Social Safety, the Ministry of Defence, the Ministry of Culture and National Heritage, and the Islamabad Centre of National Cohesion and Outreach. This recognition marks an important moment that highlights the power of women leaders in shaping a stronger Pakistan.
