Saima Aslam

As a woman with Muscular Dystrophy in Pakistan, Saima Aslam has surpassed countless barriers to become a leading advocate and role model for women and girls with disabilities nationally and internationally. After earning a B.Sc in Mathematics A+B and Statistics from the Government Post-Graduate College for Women in Rawalpindi, she went on to become a National Coordinator at the National Forum of Women with Disabilities in Pakistan. In this role, she spreads awareness about the importance of assisted and independent living techniques for women, and has counseled more than 5,000 people with disabilities and their families.

She was awarded a Gold Medal from the Government of Pakistan in recognition of her tireless efforts to empower women and break down stigmas facing the disability community. Looking to the future, she hopes to introduce Personal Care Attendant Services (PCAS) to those with severe physical disabilities who are unable to leave their homes—that way, more people have the chance to live productive and active lives.

“If we want society to accept us the way we are, we must respect and acknowledge our own disability. This assures you to dream for a better tomorrow.”

-Saima Aslam