Pakistani novelist named winner of ‘Young Woman of the Year’ award

Pakistani novelist named winner of ‘Young Woman of the Year’ award as the ceremony took place at Park Hyatt London River Thames recently.

Pakistani novelist and youth advocate Alishba Khan Barech was recently honored with the “Young Woman of the Year” title at the Women Changing the World Awards 2025. The prestigious ceremony took place at Park Hyatt London River Thames, with global dignitaries, thought leaders, and industry experts in attendance. Princess Sarah Ferguson and renowned humanitarian Dr. Tererai Trent presented the awards, as stated in a press release.

Barech, a self-published author from Nushki, Balochistan, was recognized as one of 12 finalists in February 2025, selected from an impressive pool of 751 nominations from over 50 countries. Her recognition was celebrated across Pakistan as a moment of national pride, signaling a strong message from Balochistan to the world. She triumphed among finalists from India, Iran, and Africa, standing as the sole Pakistani and South Asian woman honored in her category. Princess Sarah personally congratulated the winners and presented the awards.

The Women Changing the World Awards, led by Dr. Trent, honor exceptional women who make a significant impact in diverse fields such as literature, education, advocacy, sustainability, leadership, and innovation. These awards aim to amplify women’s voices and contributions globally, inspiring empowerment and collective action.

Alishba’s work has focused on reshaping narratives, particularly around Balochistan, often associated with conflict and militancy. She is Pakistan’s youngest novelist, debuting at age 11, and became the youngest memoirist at 14 and self-published author at 16. Her activism includes her role as a youth ambassador for UNICEF Pakistan, working on mental health and polio eradication, as well as serving as a youth advisor to Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif and a member of the National Youth Council. Additionally, she represents the cricket franchise Quetta Gladiators as a youth ambassador. Notably, Alishba is the first female Pashtun from Balochistan to earn a merit scholarship for John Locke Summer University.

A self-taught writer, Alishba started writing novels at the age of 11, driven by a passion for storytelling and an interest in global affairs, which was shaped by her upbringing in Balochistan. After receiving the award, she shared, “My mission has always been to rewrite the narratives that define us. This award is dedicated to my parents, my teachers, my beloved province Balochistan, and my country Pakistan. When my country’s name was called among global achievers, it wasn’t just a personal milestone; it was proof that resilience and brilliance can emerge from Nushki and Quetta, not just the headlines of conflict and militancy that we often hear about.”