Islamabad: Pakistani novelist and youth advocate Alishba Khan Barech has been selected as a finalist for the prestigious 2025 “Women Changing the World Awards,” according to a press release issued on Friday.
The globally recognized awards program celebrates outstanding women making a significant impact across diverse fields, including business, sustainability, leadership, education, health, and technology. The initiative, led by Zimbabwean-American activist Dr. Tererai Trent, aims to empower women to reclaim their dreams and foster global unity for a better future.
Among 751 nominees, Barech has been shortlisted as a finalist for the Young Woman of the Year Award in recognition of her exceptional contributions to literature, advocacy, and youth empowerment. The awards acknowledge the increasing influence of women who are playing a crucial role in creating a positive change worldwide, inspiring others to take action.
“These remarkable women are igniting hearts, encouraging others to follow their dreams, and bringing women together to carve a brighter future for all. The rise of women signifies the awakening of society,” Dr. Trent stated.
Hailing from Nushki, Balochistan, Barech aspires to reshape the narrative surrounding militancy in her region. She made history as Pakistan’s youngest self-published author, writing her debut novel at just 11 years old and beginning her memoir at 14.
Her achievements extend beyond the literary world. Barech has served as a Unicef Pakistan ambassador for polio eradication, a youth ambassador for mental health under Unicef’s On My Mind campaign, and a youth representative for the Quetta Gladiators cricket team. Additionally, she is a youth advisor to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and a member of the National Youth Council. Unicef has also recognized her as a Trailblazer Author through its Girl of the Day campaign.
Barech recently became the first female Pashtun from Balochistan to earn a merit-based scholarship and acceptance into the prestigious John Locke Summer University 2024.
In her role as the prime minister’s youth advisor, she acts as a crucial link between marginalized communities and policymakers, ensuring that the concerns of the younger generation are both acknowledged and addressed. A strong advocate for media representation, she has consistently highlighted issues such as the media blackout in Balochistan.
“I strive to challenge biases, amplify underrepresented voices, and create meaningful change. If no path is available, I don’t wait—I create one,” Barech stated, underscoring her commitment to shaping impactful narratives and fostering progress.