How the 2nd Bibi Khadija Innovation Summit is Empowering Women and Youth in South Punjab
It was more than just an event—it was a celebration of ideas, courage, and community. The Innovation Summit Empowering Women, officially known as the 2nd Bibi Khadija Innovation Business Summit & Awards 2025, hosted by the Pakistan Entrepreneur Empowerment Forum (PEEF) in collaboration with Government Sadiq College Women University (GSCWU), brought together passionate minds and hopeful hearts from across South Punjab.
What Is the Innovation Summit Empowering Women?
The event was all about one thing: empowering women, youth, and small business owners to believe in their potential and turn dreams into reality.
From the very start, you could feel the energy in the room. The day began with the recitation of the Holy Quran, a soulful Naat, and the national anthem — setting the tone for what turned out to be a powerful and heartfelt experience.
A Platform for Change
The Vice Chancellor of GSCWU, Prof. Dr. Shazia Anjum, welcomed the audience with warmth and pride. She reminded everyone how important such gatherings are for building confidence, leadership, and self-reliance — especially for young women who are ready to make their mark in the world.
The summit featured a range of incredible speakers and panelists — each one sharing their experience and advice in the most real, relatable way. Among them were Sheikh Mamoon Rafiq, Dr. Umair Siddique, Prof. Dr. Sughra Rana, Usman Shaheen, and Usman Chanar, who spoke on everything from modern business trends to the power of economic independence.
But it was the stories that truly stayed with everyone.
Azra Sheikh, the strong-willed founder of Aaghaz Dairy Farm, opened up about her entrepreneurial journey — a story of challenges, courage, and quiet triumph. Her words left a deep impression, especially on the young women in the audience. Then came Syed Daniyal Kazmi, the youngest AI CEO in Pakistan, whose tech journey proved that age is just a number when passion and focus come into play.
During the tea break, students from GSCWU’s Biotechnology and Botany departments showcased their creative business models — proof that our youth are full of ideas and ready to innovate. Their confidence and curiosity truly lit up the room.
A Vision That’s Growing Every Day
One of the most engaging parts of the summit was a panel discussion hosted by Ms. Hunza Gul, with valuable input from Prof. Dr. Amna Noor. They answered questions and encouraged young entrepreneurs to take the first step — no matter how small — toward their dreams.
As the summit moved toward its award ceremony, the spotlight turned to those who had made a difference. Outstanding youth, women, and entrepreneurs were recognized for their dedication and innovation. It was a moment of joy, pride, and hope for the future.
The event would not have been possible without the tireless efforts of Shazia Noureen Khan, Founder Chairperson of PEEF. Her vision of building platforms that support local talent and create real opportunities was at the heart of this summit. In her closing remarks, she thanked every guest, speaker, sponsor, and volunteer who made this dream come to life.
A grand lunch followed at Khairpuri Hotel, hosted by Muhammad Asad. But even as plates were cleared, the conversations continued — from potential collaborations to bold business ideas. This wasn’t just networking. It was connection, community, and the beginning of something bigger.
Looking Ahead
This summit is part of a growing movement — one that recognizes artisans, small business owners, students, and dreamers who are shaping the future of South Punjab. It’s about giving them not just a stage, but also the support they need to rise.
And this is just the beginning.
“The World in Vogue”, the proud media partner of the event, stands shoulder-to-shoulder with PEEF and GSCWU in this mission. Together, we’re working to bring Pakistani talent to a global stage — and we’re already planning our next step: a fashion and awards exhibition that will celebrate even more stories of passion, purpose, and progress.
Because when we lift each other up, the whole nation rises.
