From AI to Startups: Top 10 Women Transforming Pakistan’s Tech Industry

“There is no tool for development more effective than the empowerment of women.” – Kofi Annan

March is Women’s History Month, a time to honor the remarkable contributions of women across every field and culture. On International Women’s Day, March 8th, we celebrate the trailblazing women who are breaking barriers and shaping the future of technology in Pakistan. Far from just keeping pace with global trends, these women are leading the charge—driving innovation, mentoring aspiring professionals, and building platforms that empower others. Despite societal and workplace challenges, they continue to redefine Pakistan’s tech landscape. Today, we spotlight ten extraordinary women whose achievements inspire future generations and pave the way for a more inclusive industry.

Top 10 Women in Pakistan’s Tech Industry

Nighat Dad 

Nighat Dad founded the Digital Rights Foundation (DRF) and continues to be a global digital rights activist that advocates online freedom, cybersecurity, and digital privacy protection in Pakistan.  Following her educational achievements, she founded DRF in 2012.

The organization, led by Nighat Dad, provides digital security training sessions to both impoverished demographic groups and female journalists and activists.  Thousands of victims sought assistance at DRF’s cyber harassment hotline in 2016, when the group launched its first Pakistan-based abuse hotline.   Following her Pakistan activities, she has used her board memberships on Meta’s Oversight Board and the United Nations’ AI Advisory Board to spearhead international conversations around cybersecurity and digital governance.

Jehan Ara 

Jehan Ara, Pakistan’s pioneer in IT startups and technology, has been a driving force behind the growth of innovation and entrepreneurship.  Nighat, president of P@SHA (Pakistan Software Houses Association), has guided the growth of Pakistan’s information technology sector.

Jehan Ara’s incubator, The Nest I/O, allows him to help hundreds of businesses through the startup development process and connect them with key digital partners in Pakistan.  She is currently working to build Katalyst Labs, which will serve as an entrepreneurial accelerator facility run entirely by female entrepreneurs.  The accelerator provides cash and mentorship support to technical female business owners and entrepreneurs.  Her continued advocacy has increased chances for women in technology while strengthening Pakistan’s position in global digital economic activity.

Dr. Ayesha Khanna 

Dr. Ayesha Khanna is the CEO and co-founder of ADDO AI, where she works as a globally recognized specialist on artificial intelligence and smart cities from her headquarters in Singapore.  Her company, ADDO AI, offers AI consultancy services to international corporations for urban planning, financial technology development, and smart city solutions.

Her work adds value to global digital transformation projects, and she has evolved into an important professional in this industry.  In her voluntary position, Dr. Khanna teaches students about AI approaches through educational programs and organizes mentorship sessions to help kids and young women boost their AI skills and professional growth.

 

Fatima Rizwan

As the former CEO of TechJuice and the founder of Meta School, Fatima Rizwan has played a significant role in shaping Pakistan’s startup ecosystem. Startups, tech executives, and aspiring entrepreneurs in Pakistan rely on TechJuice, which she turned into the country’s leading technology news site.

At Meta School, she focuses on teaching students how to use blockchain technology and Web3 so that the next generation of IT workers may be prepared. While inspiring young people to become skilled workers, her work as a technical leader, mentor, and educator at Meta School propels Pakistan’s technology progress.

 

Arfa Karim 

Arfa Karim is widely regarded for her intellectual brilliance as well as her inspirational leadership. Her achievement of becoming the youngest MCP certificate holder from 2004 to 2008 pushed the record back by remaining under ten years of age. CEO Bill Gates personally invited her to visit his Microsoft headquarters. Her influence continues to this day, therefore her death at the age of 16 did not wipe away her legacy.

The Arfa Software Technology Park is located in Lahore, Pakistan, and serves as an homage to her achievements in information technology. This historical narrative inspires young women to pursue careers in technology and achieve great success.

Aleena Nadeem

As the Founder & CEO of EduFi, Aleena Nadeem is tackling financial barriers in education by offering student financing solutions. She made it possible for thousands of Pakistani students to attend university by removing financial barriers. By being named one of Forbes’ 30 Under 30 in 2024, she revolutionized the way funds education, opening doors to improved prospects for future generations of students.

Sidra Qasim 

Sidra Qasim co-founded Atoms, a footwear startup that has raised over $12 million in venture funding. She is able to invest in new businesses and use her position as CEO to influence change in Pakistan’s e-commerce sector. Pakistan and global markets now have a more robust startup environment thanks to her commitment to innovation and entrepreneurial endeavors

Kalsoom Lakhani 

Invest2Innovate (i2i) was founded by Kalsoom Lakhani, who is dedicated to assisting companies that operate in different nations. Mentoring, funding, and global networking opportunities have been provided to over 120 businesses by the group i2i. In 2013, Kalsoom made an indisputable mark on Pakistan’s startup landscape and became famous as a Cambridge “Top 50 Innovator.”

Mahlaqa Shaukat 

As the Co-Founder & CEO of AimFit, Mahlaqa Shaukat is leading Pakistan’s female fitness revolution. Over ten thousand women were able to afford healthier options because to her firm and the one million dollars she raised from foreign investors. She is able to help women all around Pakistan using the power of communication technology to have a fitness experience that is accessible, inclusive, and promotes wellness.

Fiza Farhan

As Co-Founder of Buksh Foundation Farhan assists women entrepreneurs by providing them financial and resource assistance through the microfinance company. In 2015 Forbes selected her as one of their 30 Under 30 honorees and she dedicated herself to work inside the UN Secretary-General’s Panel on Women’s Economic Empowerment. Financial difficulties became obstacles of the past when she started empowering thousands of female company owners in Pakistan which resulted in sector-wide change for women entrepreneurs.

The digital world today is driven by technical innovation, with women in technology breaking down obstacles to enhance technological advancement. Women in technology provide long-term contributions that go beyond personal triumphs, build markets for inclusion, and inspire aspiring developers to succeed. Women require surroundings that encourage and empower them to explore new opportunities for growth and advancement. While we celebrate their triumphs, we must continue to retain equitable opportunities, build mentorship connections, and increase representation to enable future female leaders transform the technical domain.