Pakistani novelist Alishba Khan Barech has been honored with the “Young Woman of the Year” award at the 2025 Women Changing the World Awards. The ceremony took place on April 3, 2025, at the Park Hyatt London River Thames, where Alishba received her award from Dr. Tererai Trent and Sarah Ferguson, the Duchess of York.
At just 11, Alishba penned her debut novel, and by 14, she began her memoir, establishing herself as Pakistan’s youngest self-published author by 16. Beyond writing, she actively contributes to youth empowerment and advocacy, serving as a UNICEF Pakistan ambassador for mental health and polio eradication. She also advises Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and is a member of the National Youth Council.
Hailing from Nushki, Balochistan—a region often associated with militancy—Alishba aims to reshape its narrative, focusing on resilience and positive stories emerging from her community.
Expressing her gratitude, Alishba dedicated the award to her parents, teachers, Balochistan, and Pakistan. She remarked that bringing a global award to her community signifies that stories of resilience can emerge from Nushki and Quetta, challenging prevailing narratives of conflict.