ISLAMABAD: Laila Naz Taj, Director at the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) in Pakistan, has received the Dukhtaran-e-Pakistan Excellence Award 2026 in recognition of her contributions to human development, public policy, humanitarian response and institutional development.
The award was presented at a ceremony attended by Senate Chairman Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani as the chief guest. The Federal Minister for Poverty Alleviation and Social Safety presented the award.
The Dukhtaran-e-Pakistan Excellence Awards recognise women whose leadership and professional achievements have contributed to Pakistan’s social, economic and institutional development. The award citation acknowledged Taj’s commitment to public service, nation-building and empowerment.
A Harvard Business School and London School of Economics alumna, Taj has worked across Pakistan, the United Kingdom, the United States and Afghanistan, collaborating with governments, communities, development partners and civil society organisations. Her work has covered poverty reduction, climate resilience, disaster risk reduction, education, community development and child and family wellbeing.
In her acceptance remarks, Taj expressed gratitude to the Government of Pakistan and the selection committee for the recognition. She reaffirmed her commitment to serving marginalised communities through the Aga Khan Development Network and advancing integrated, community-driven development.
She also acknowledged the role of her parents and mentors in supporting her professional journey, pledging to continue contributing to Pakistan’s development and the broader welfare of humanity.
The award was conferred by the Pakistan Poverty Alleviation Fund (PPAF) in collaboration with the Ministry of Poverty Alleviation and Social Safety, Ministry of Defence, Ministry of Culture and National Heritage, and the Islamabad Centre of National Cohesion and Outreach.
