Since, it’s inception in 2012, the flagship CSR project of Engro, I Am The Change (IATC) has awarded three true Agents of change every year and highlighted the efforts done by them in the development and rewriting the narratives of Pakistan. These Agents of Change have brought forth significant ideas and contemporary development in their respectivel fields. The event also lauded the efforts of Qurutulain Bakhteari, the Founding Director of the Institute for Development Studies and Practices,the lady who has also worked with UNICEF and the Government of Balochistan, her main focus is on healthcare, education and social activism. Another lady who’s exemolary work was appladed was Humaira Shaikh, the Director of Peace and Pluralism at Shirkat Gahalso one of the founders of the Purple Women’s Movement that aims to assist in peace building initiatives and also build resistance to culturally justified violence against women.
The award for the Healthcare categiry was given to REEDS (Rural Education and Economic Development Society), the society that aims to create income generating opportunities for sustainable livelihoods of marginalized communities in district Rahim Yar Khan. A remarkable effort has been put into improving livelihood opportunities in its respective area of operations and upholding the values of bringing positive transformation.
“doctHERS,” an up-and-coming digital, healthcare platform that connects female doctors to needy patients in real-time was the recipient for the award in the special category, this platformin a short while accomplished that feat while leveraging leading-edge technology. IATC applauded doctHERS for improving Health across the country.
The award in the education category went to IDSP Community Learning Centers. Initiated in 2009, these Community Learning Centers provide nurturing and development of individuals and communities that will later on change the future of this country by educating themselves and generations to come. IATC applauds IDSP’s efforts for improving education across marginalized communities in Baluchistan
“We strongly believe in empowering individuals and communities who have dedicated their lives toward championing the cause of education, health and livelihood. As a country, Pakistan is a land of untapped potential, a space where we have numerous talented citizens who have been deprived of the resources necessary for self-actualization. Given this predicament, it is crucial that we acknowledge these change agents working relentlessly for a better Pakistan but also take advantage of IATC’s crowd-funding platform to strengthen and amplify our efforts in bringing about much needed change. The onus is on all of us to write the story of change together because it is only through collective action that we can together change the world.” – CEO & President , Engro Corporation, Khalid Siraj Subhani.
The recipient of the IATC award in the category of health was Afzaal Memorial Thalassemia Foundation (AMTF). AMTF provides solutions to all blood related diseases under one roof, completely free of cost. AMTF has imporved the healthcare opportunities for marginalized communities suffering across the country.
Perhaps the best part the event other than the awards was the fact that it shed light light on the 70 year existence of Pakistan and it’s evolution throughout the decades. The picterusque Frere Hall looked even more magnificent while this event was conducted there and beautifully distinct journey of Pakistan’s rich and varied cultural heritage was discused. From art and architecture, prose and poetry, fashion and music, to sport, the love for their vountry ws evident from the nostalgic conversation of the event’s hosts Imran Aslam and Nadia Jamil had the audience hooked to their parting words. The event was such a great fusion of the past 70 years, the contemporary and fast-paced present and the hopefully bright future of our country..
