ISLAMABAD: Laila Naz Taj, a development professional from the mountainous Chitral district, has received the Dukhtaran-e-Pakistan Excellence Award 2026 for her work in human development, public policy and humanitarian response.
Taj, who currently serves as director communications at the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), was recognised for her contributions to poverty reduction, climate resilience, community development, and improving the well-being of marginalised populations.
Her achievement highlights the growing role of women from remote regions in the country’s professional and institutional landscape, where access to opportunities can be shaped by geography and socioeconomic conditions.
Taj has worked in Pakistan, Britain, the United States and Afghanistan, collaborating with governments, civil society organisations, development partners and local communities on development and humanitarian initiatives.
An alumna of Harvard Business School and the London School of Economics (LSE), her experience spans education, disaster risk reduction, child and family wellbeing, and inclusive development, including work in complex humanitarian settings.
In her current role, she supports strategic engagement on development priorities in Pakistan, with a focus on partnerships and community-driven approaches.
The award was presented to her by Federal Minister for Poverty Alleviation and Social Safety Syed Imam Ahmad Shah at a ceremony attended by Senate Chairman Yousaf Raza Gilani as chief guest.
Taj expressed gratitude to the government and the award selection committee, while acknowledging the support of her parents and mentors.
She reaffirmed her commitment to working with marginalised communities through the AKDN and promoting integrated development initiatives.
For Taj, the award marks recognition of a career spanning several countries and development sectors, while bringing attention to the contributions of professionals from regions beyond Pakistan’s major urban centres.
The award was conferred by the Pakistan Poverty Alleviation Fund in collaboration 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.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026