Pakistani Girls, Women Poised for Remarkable Success: US Kristin 

News Desk 

Lahore: The Consul General of the United States in Lahore, Kristin Hawkins, emphasized the central focus on women empowerment during her tenure at the Consulate, highlighting initiatives such as exchange programs, educational scholarships, and internship opportunities aimed at encouraging women’s participation.

She expressed her belief in the potential of Pakistani women to achieve remarkable feats given equal opportunities, stating that gender equity is crucial for societal development, economic growth, democracy, and political stability.

Regarding Women’s History Month, Hawkins underscored its significance in celebrating the strengths, resilience, and accomplishments of women across various fields such as business, academia, and sports.

She emphasized that efforts toward women’s empowerment extend beyond this designated month, with ongoing initiatives aimed at fostering independence, self-expression, and leadership among women.

Hawkins, known for her charismatic demeanor and dedication to women empowerment and cultural preservation in Punjab, highlighted the US Mission’s contributions to cultural preservation projects in Pakistan.

Over the past two decades, the Mission has funded 35 projects worth $8.4 million through the AFCP, with 20 of these projects located in Punjab.

She noted the active involvement of young women alongside men in these projects, contributing to the restoration of architectural wonders.

Furthermore, Hawkins mentioned the U.S.-funded internship program focused on conservation techniques, providing local youth, including girls, with marketable skills.

This program, implemented at historic sites like the Lahore Fort and Wazir Khan Mosque, aims to enhance the resourcefulness of the youth.

In addition to these initiatives, Hawkins highlighted various opportunities available to young girls, including Fulbright Scholarships, the International Visitors Leadership Program (IVLP), Student Exchange Programs, and High school scholarships, aimed at empowering them to excel and make significant contributions.

Meena Arham, a conservation scientist and team lead at the Wazir Khan Mosque Restoration Project, expressed her sense of empowerment working with the Agha Khan Cultural Services in Pakistan (AKCSP) since 2014. She finds fulfillment in contributing to the restoration of a historic architectural gem like the Wazir Khan Mosque.

Similarly, Zeina Naseer, a Conservation Scientist at AKCSP, leads the conservation and restoration efforts for the 1600 feet long historic Picture Wall and Sheesh Mahal (Palace of Mirrors) at the Lahore Fort.

She takes pride in the enduring impact their work will have for future generations and acknowledges the role of the US-funded internship program in shaping a promising future for young professionals in the field.

In her message to Pakistani girls and women, especially in light of Women’s History Month, Consul General Hawkins encouraged them to persevere and aim for greatness in their chosen paths, whether it be academia, medicine, engineering, law, politics, or entrepreneurship. She emphasized the importance of community connections and setting ambitious goals as keys to success.