Pakistani Teenager Taqwa Ahmad Becomes First-Ever UNICEF Youth Advocate

Taqwa Ahmad, a 16-year-old activist, author, and motivational speaker from Gujranwala, Punjab, has achieved the distinction of being appointed as UNICEF’s inaugural Youth Advocate in Pakistan.

Taqwa, a staunch advocate for peace, inclusivity, disability rights, and education, received this prestigious appointment on World Children’s Day. The appointment is a call to children to raise their voices and actively contribute to the advancement of child rights.

Expressing her gratitude and enthusiasm for becoming a UNICEF Youth Advocate, Taqwa Ahmad stated, “I am humbled and excited to become a UNICEF Youth Advocate. My goal is to amplify the voices of young people, champion their rights, and empower others. I envisage a future where every child in Pakistan can access high-quality education and healthcare, so they can flourish in a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment.”

In her role as a UNICEF Youth Advocate, Taqwa will utilize her platform to bring attention to child rights and address issues impacting youth. Recently, Taqwa, along with five other child representatives, engaged with the President of Pakistan, H.E. Dr. Arif Alvi, to discuss critical concerns for children as part of a UNICEF World Children’s Day initiative.

Representing children from diverse age groups and backgrounds across all provinces and regions of Pakistan, the delegation emphasized climate change, inclusive education, and gender equality as urgent issues requiring action from leaders, decision-makers, and society as a whole to secure the future of the younger generation.

Children in Pakistan confront numerous challenges, including being at the forefront of climate change impacts such as floods, droughts, and heatwaves. More than 22 million children are out of school, denying them essential opportunities for learning, earning, and personal growth. High rates of malnutrition and poverty pose threats to children’s survival and well-being, with those with disabilities facing heightened vulnerability.

Abdullah Fadil, UNICEF Representative in Pakistan, expressed, “Taqwa inspires us not only with her powerful words but through her actions and her incredible personal story – overcoming the challenges of a spinal condition, becoming a karate champion despite needing a wheelchair – providing a beacon of hope to children, especially girls everywhere. We are honored for her to become our first-ever Youth Advocate in Pakistan.”

UNICEF remains committed to collaborating with young individuals, activists, and advocates, nurturing the next generation of change-makers to build a more inclusive and equitable Pakistan. The aim is to ensure the protection of all children’s rights, recognizing their true potential and securing a better future for everyone.

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