By Rafiq Vayani
KUALA LUMPUR: A dynamic gathering of women leaders, entrepreneurs, executives, academics, creatives, and changemakers convened at Naghmana House in Kuala Lumpur for the official launch of LADIESFUND Malaysia, marking a significant expansion of the global women’s leadership movement founded by Tara Uzra Dawood.
Hosted by Dr. Naghmana Riazuddin, the high-level roundtable brought together Pakistani-origin women and Malaysian professionals of Pakistani heritage representing diverse fields including global finance, healthcare, education, media, technology, entrepreneurship, and the arts. The launch underscored the growing influence of Pakistani women across international industries while emphasizing a shared commitment to mentorship, education, and opportunity creation for women and girls in Pakistan.
LADIESFUND Malaysia aims to strengthen cross-border collaboration among women leaders and support initiatives in Pakistan focused on scholarships, digital skills development, leadership training, internships, and entrepreneurial growth. Founder Tara Uzra Dawood described the initiative as “a force multiplier for women,” adding that when accomplished women unite across borders, they create pathways for the next generation. She further highlighted the Educate a Girl initiative, which seeks to empower young women in Pakistan through education, career development, and access to opportunity.
The event featured a wide range of distinguished professionals, including Sadaf Farasat, visual artist; Datin Rubab Fatima, CEO of Travel Photography Society; Dato’ Ruslina Baharum, cosmetics and nutraceuticals expert; Sonia Khan, CFO of Lendlease Group Asia; Dr. Naghmana Riazuddin, retired consultant radiologist; Narmeen Khan, former Managing Director of Mondelez International Malaysia & Singapore and current Chief Marketing Officer for MENAI Region at pladis Global; Faridza Khan, CEO of Allmax Vision (M) Sdn Bhd; Dr. Erum Zain, consultant endodontist and senior lecturer at SEGi University; Samia Azmi, learning support teacher; and artisan chocolatier Rubina Mustafa Kamal, among others.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Naghmana Riazuddin emphasized the importance of representation and role modeling for younger generations, stating that LADIESFUND highlights the achievements of Pakistani women globally and shows young girls that the sky is the limit. She added that the initiative would focus on meaningful work not only for women in Malaysia but also for women and girls everywhere.
Narmeen Khan described the gathering as inspiring and transformative, noting the importance of collaboration among women leaders in reshaping global perceptions of Pakistani women. Sonia Khan, CFO of Lendlease Group Asia, called the initiative fantastic, highlighting the importance of impact-driven collaboration and referencing the slogan “Invest in Yourself.”
Other participants echoed similar sentiments, expressing enthusiasm for mentorship, education-focused initiatives, and community impact programs.
A key highlight of the event was the participation of four student interns — Manahil, Alina, Hayatt, and Mishaal — who volunteered during the launch and represented the next generation of women leaders. The students described the experience as empowering and inspiring, noting the opportunity to engage with accomplished professionals and learn from their journeys.
The launch concluded with a shared commitment to expanding LADIESFUND Malaysia’s role in advancing education, mentorship, and leadership opportunities for women across borders. Dr. Riazuddin stated in closing that the initiative represents an “incredible group of women who will be doing exciting and meaningful work for women and young girls everywhere.”
Rubina also brought some delicious desserts and treats to the event.
