Sajna Azam, from Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan is currently pursuing a Bachelor's Degree in Leadership and Management Studies at the National Defence University, Islamabad. Growing up in a region deeply affected by climate change, she dedicated my efforts to addressing environmental challenges and empowering her community.
She served as the President of the Environmental Club at Aga Khan Higher Secondary School Hunza, where she led tree-planting drives, cleanliness campaigns, and awareness sessions on sustainable practices. As an OMLAS Champion and a youth advocate for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 13 (Climate Action), she has collaborated with platforms such as the Movers Program, Progressive Climate Foundation, and the Local Conference of Youth (LCOY) Pakistan. These roles have allowed her to contribute to youth-led climate action initiatives and promote sustainability at both local and national levels.
She is deeply committed to women’s empowerment, especially within her community, Gilgit-Baltistan. Her work with IEI Pakistan has enabled her to address significant gender equality issues through projects like documentary film-making and media advocacy. These projects shed light on the challenges women face, from limited access to education to economic independence, and provide a platform for their voices to be heard. By engaging in initiatives like the Saheli Station program and the Saheli Circles life skills and leadership training, she has actively promoted leadership and self-empowerment for women. Her aim is to continue advocating for gender equality, creating spaces where women feel empowered to pursue their goals and bring positive change to their lives and communities.
In addition to environmental advocacy, she has highlighted women’s struggles in her region through documentaries, podcasts, and training programs as part of projects like Saheli Station and Saheli Circles. Her creative initiatives also include leading art-based workshops to educate youth on the importance of reusing materials and promoting low-cost environmental solutions.
By leveraging leadership, community engagement, and education, she aims to create a ripple effect of positive change in her community and beyond.
Sajna’s ability to adapt, her persistence in the face of hardship, and her commitment to uplifting her community exemplify how she has transformed personal challenges into a foundation for empowering others. Her journey serves as an inspiring example of how adversity can fuel positive change, as she continues to work toward a more equitable and sustainable future.
