A) Parenting Workshop for Healthcare Professionals: “Surviving 21st Century Parenting Challenges”
The workshop titled “Surviving 21st Century Parenting Challenges” was held on 14th January 2025 at Children’s Hospital Lahore, by Medical Women’s Association of Pakistan (MWAP). This timely and interactive event provided a valuable platform for healthcare professionals to explore the evolving complexities of parenting in today’s digital and fast-paced world. With rising concerns about children’s mental health, behavioral issues, and family dynamics, the importance of informed and positive parenting has never been greater. Good parenting plays a crucial role in shaping emotionally secure, socially responsible, and resilient future generations.
The workshop featured a compelling session by Prof. Nazish Imran, Director Research, MWAP and a leading child psychiatrist as a master trainer, who shared expert insights on Parenting Dynamics and Strategies, blending evidence-based practices with practical applications. Thought-provoking, case-based discussions were facilitated by Prof. Azher Shah, Dr. Wajiha Rizwan, Dr. Sana Jamil, and Miss Marium, focusing on real-life challenges such as child behavior management, screen time regulation, co-parenting issues, and the ethical implications of sharenting—sparking meaningful dialogue among participants.
Prof. Junaid Rashid, Dean of Children’s Hospital Lahore, attended as Chief Guest and offered closing reflections on the significance of equipping parents with adaptive strategies in an ever-changing environment.
B) International Seminar: “The Art of Aging Well: Lifestyle Modifications for Lifelong Wellness”
On January 31, 2025 MWAP, in collaboration with the University of Child Health Sciences (UCHS) Lahore, hosted an international seminar titled “The Art of Aging Well: Lifestyle Modifications for Lifelong Wellness” under the leadership of Dr. Wajiha Rizwan, Associate Professor of Pediatrics and MWAP President, and Prof. Nasir Rana, Director of Emergency at UCHS. Prof. Masood Sadiq, Vice Chancellor of UCHS, graced the event as Chief Guest and emphasized the importance of promoting wellness across the lifespan. Prof. Mrunal Phatak (Dean Academics, AIIMS Nagpur) joined virtually and highlighted the science-backed role of regular physical activity in slowing biological aging and preventing chronic diseases. Prof. Shamsa Humayun, Senior Vice President MWAP, delivered an engaging session on redefining aging through nutrition, mental well-being, and meaningful social connections. The event was attended by faculty, family physicians, students, nurses, and paramedics, and successfully fostered awareness on how simple, sustained lifestyle choices can lead to healthier, more fulfilling aging.
C) Celebrating International Women’s Day 2025: Advancing Women’s Leadership in Healthcare – A Report from MWAP, Pakistan
MWAP, in collaboration with the University of Lahore, commemorated International Women’s Day 2025 with an inspiring event at the University College of Medicine and Dentistry, Lahore, themed “Impactful Women Leaders in Healthcare.” The gathering brought together prominent women from healthcare, academia, and policymaking across Pakistan.
The event was expertly moderated by Prof. Dr. Saima Batool, Director CPD at MWAP, and featured a high-level panel discussion, “Strategies for Fulfilment: Looking Through the Gender Lens in Health Workforce and Leadership,” led by Prof. Dr. Nazish Imran, Director Research MWAP. Panelists included influential voices such as Prof. Dr. Shamsa Humayun, Prof. Dr. Tayyaba Wasim, Prof. Dr. Nabila Talat, Prof. Dr. Bilquis Shabbir, Prof. Dr. Ayesha Humayun, Prof. Dr. Lubna Kamani, and Dr. Somia Iqtadar, with MPA Ms. Rushda Lodhi as Chair. They addressed key challenges and proposed solutions to advance gender equity in healthcare leadership.
A heartfelt Wisdom Talk was delivered by Prof. Dr. Shakila Zaman, whose decades of service in preventive pediatrics and maternal-child health were honored with MWAP’s Lifetime Achievement Award. Prof. Dr. Mahwish Arooj, Principal UCMD, emphasized MWAP’s focus on education, research, and policy reforms, while President Dr. Wajiha Rizwan reaffirmed MWAP’s alignment with global health advocacy through MWIA and its commitment to empowering women in medicine.
Dignitaries including Mrs. Salma Butt, Senator Bushra Anjum Butt, and Mrs. Amna (GM Grants, PPIF) expressed support for gender-inclusive reforms in healthcare. The event concluded with an inspirational address by Chief Guest Mrs. Shahnaz Raoof, Chairperson Chaoon Foundation, who spoke on sustainability, leadership, and nurturing systems for future generations.
MWAP “Impactful Leaders in Healthcare” Awards 2024 and Lifetime Achievement Recognition
MWAP proudly presented the “Impactful Leaders in Healthcare” Awards 2024, honoring exemplary women across the country for their outstanding contributions to medicine, public health, education, and philanthropy. The awards were presented by Prof. Dr. Aisha Sajid, Director Punjab, MWAP.
🎖 Lifetime Achievement Award
- Prof. Shakila Zaman
In recognition of her lifelong dedication to advancing public health, research, and community-based care in Pakistan.
🌟 Impactful Leaders 2024 – Province-Wise Recognition Sindh:
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Prof. Haleema Yasmin
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Prof. Mohsina Noor Ibrahim
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Prof. Lubna Kamani
For their leadership in clinical excellence, medical education, and healthcare advocacy.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa:
- Prof. Mah Muneer
- Prof. Naseem Saba Mahsud
- Dr. Syeda Asiyah Bukhari
For their pioneering roles in improving maternal and child health and strengthening medical education in the region.
Balochistan:
- Prof. Nabiha Farasat Khan
For her efforts in promoting healthcare access and mentoring future medical professionals in underserved areas.
Punjab:
- Prof. Tayyaba Khawar Butt
- Prof. Zohra Khanum
- Prof. Shirza Nadeem
- Prof. Saira Afzal
- Ms. Shahnaz Raoof
For their visionary leadership, academic contributions, and commitment to health systems development.
Philanthropy Category:
- Mrs. Rubina Gul
Recognized for her impactful work in healthcare philanthropy and community service.
These awards reflect MWAP’s ongoing mission to celebrate and elevate women leaders who are transforming the landscape of healthcare in Pakistan
D) Breaking Barriers over Coffee: MWAP Hosted Inclusive Networking Meet-up
On 16th April 2025, MWAP hosted a powerful networking event titled “More Than Just Coffee” at Gymkhana, Lahore, under the leadership of President Dr. Wajiha Rizwan, Senior Vice President Prof. Shamsa Humayun, and Prof. Mahwish Arooj. The event aimed to counter the silent exclusion women often face in informal professional spaces by creating an intentional, inclusive platform for connection and collaboration. The gathering brought together inspiring women leaders from various sectors, including Madam Rushda Lodhi (Parliamentary Secretary SHCME), Madam Sara Ahmad (Chairperson, Child Protection and Welfare Bureau), Madam Shakila Arthur (MPA), Madam Shehla Javed Akram, Madam Uzma (Chief Health Officer, P&D), Madam Nabila (Director of Museums), and Dr. Hira Anwar (Assistant Director, National School of Public Policy). Academic leaders such as Prof. Huma Kayani (Principal KMSMC), Prof. Saira Afzal (Dean IPH), Prof. Tayyaba Wasim (Principal AIMC), Prof. Tayyaba Khawar Butt, Prof. Bilquis Shabbir (Vice President, MWAP), Prof. Somia Iqtadar, Prof. Saima Chaudhry, Prof. Rehana, Dr. Sidra, and Prof. Saima Batool were present, along with other notable attendees including Madam Sophiya (CEO, Almarah Foundation), Madam Mawrah (Regional Head, Asghari Bank), Dr. Rabia Wajid, Dr. Aysha Zaheer, Dr. Javeria Raza, and news anchor Fiza. The event was a testament to MWAP’s commitment to breaking barriers and building new spaces where every woman has a rightful seat at the table.
E) International Nurses Day 2025 Celebration
On 25th May 2025, the Medical Women’s Association of Pakistan (MWAP), in collaboration with Women Medical College (WMC) and Jinnah College of Nursing Abbottabad (JCNA), commemorated International Nurses Day 2025 with a vibrant and heartfelt event held at JCNA. The celebration paid tribute to the vital contributions of nurses and resonated with the International Council of Nurses (ICN) global theme, which emphasizes the pivotal role of nurses in transforming healthcare systems. The event served as a platform to recognize the dedication, resilience, and unwavering commitment of nursing professionals who form the backbone of patient care and health service delivery.
The event featured a welcome address by Prof. Tariq Siraj Qazi, student performances, and a powerful panel discussion on nursing education, leadership, and mentorship. The highlight was the Iconic Nurse Awards ceremony recognizing outstanding nurses from all regions of Pakistan, including:
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Federal: Prof. Dr. Raisa Begum Gul
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KPK: Prof. Dr. Muhammad Dildar
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Balochistan: Miss Anila Samreen
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Punjab: Miss Nigat Durani
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Sindh: Prof. Alia Nasir
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Special Honors: Prof. Dr. Sabiha Khanum (Nurse Excellence Award – KP), Miss Tahira Tabassum (Lifetime Achievement Award)
MWAP President, Dr. Wajiha, delivered a keynote address urging continued support for women in nursing and medicine. Esteemed guests, including Prof. Dr. Muhammad Umar, VC, Rawalpindi Medical University and Prof. Dr. Raisa Gul, emphasized inclusive leadership and empowerment.
The event concluded with closing remarks by Dr. Salma Aslam Kundi, Director, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chapter (KPK), MWAP reaffirming MWAP’s dedication to professional growth, recognition, and solidarity for women in healthcare.
F) MWAP Power Talks: A Force to Reckon With!
The Medical Women’s Association of Pakistan (MWAP) proudly launched its Power Talks webinar series—an initiative to spotlight exemplary women leaders in medicine, education, and public service. Hosted by the dynamic Dr. Noor-i-Kiran, the series aims to inspire and empower women professionals by showcasing stories of resilience, leadership, and transformative impact.
Power Talk 1 – Dr. Humeraa Ahmad-Qamar | March 16, 2025
President of the Association of Physicians of Pakistani Descent of North America (APPNA), Dr. Humeraa Ahmad-Qamar shared her powerful journey as a woman physician and leader. She spoke candidly about navigating work-life balance, overcoming gender barriers in leadership, and championing the cause of women in medicine. Dr. Qamar emphasized the importance of mentorship, community service, and collaboration among women’s medical associations to address workplace inequities and foster professional growth.
Power Talk 2 – Dr. Mariam Chughtai | April 19, 2025
A trailblazer in education reform, Dr. Mariam Chughtai brought a wave of inspiration to the second session. With a doctorate and two Master’s degrees from Harvard, Dr. Chughtai returned to Pakistan to pioneer change. As a founding leader of the LUMS School of Education and Director of the National Curriculum Council, she has shaped policies affecting millions. Her talk offered deep insights into leadership, institutional change, and how to redefine success on one’s own terms—encouraging women to think boldly and act with purpose.
Together, these sessions marked a compelling beginning to MWAP Power Talks, celebrating women who are not only breaking barriers but building new paths for future generations.
