A woman with a voice!

In the bustling city of Peshawar, Pakistan, I am a young girl. My name is Mehdiya and I am a beacon of resilience and determination. I am raised in a society where traditional gender roles often dictated the course of a woman's life, My journey was a testament to the unwavering support and forward-thinking mindset of my parents.

From a young age, My father saw the spark in my eyes and the curiosity in my mind. My father was a lawyer with a fierce belief in equality, he had decided that his daughter would have every opportunity to shine, just like her younger brother, Ijlal. He wanted me to know that my dreams were just as important and attainable.

While many of my friends played with dolls, I was fascinated by the world of computers, machines and gadgets. My parents noticed my interest and nurtured it, buying me educational toys that fueled my imagination and building kits that challenged my intellect. They bought me a computer back then in 1999 when I was just 3.5 years old. At that time, computers used to be a very expensive thing to afford. Nobody could think of giving it to children. But my father encouraged me to work on computers,  ask questions, explore, and never shy away from expressing my ideas.

In school, I used to excel in science and mathematics. My teachers often praised my intelligence and dedication, but the unwavering support from my parents made the difference. They attended every parent-teacher meeting, celebrated every achievement, and, most importantly, reassured me during moments of self-doubt. Especially, my father would often say, "Mehdiya! your dreams are valid. You have the strength and the intellect to achieve anything you set your mind to."

When I expressed to my parents the desire to become an engineer, a profession predominantly pursued by men in Pakistan, my father stood firmly behind my decision. He knew the road ahead would be challenging, and filled with societal prejudices and gender biases, but he was determined to see me succeed through every step of my life.

Throughout my educational journey, I faced numerous obstacles. I often found myself among the few women in my engineering classes, sometimes even the only one. There were moments when I felt the weight of societal expectations and the pressure to conform. But each time I felt discouraged, I was remembered my Baba’s words and his unwavering belief in my abilities.

My mother played a crucial role in instilling confidence in me. "Mehdiya, you are not just competing with others; you are paving the way for future generations of women. Stand tall, be proud, and never let anyone tell you that you cannot achieve your dreams."

My perseverance paid off when I graduated as the first female engineer in my family. I was not only an accomplished engineer but also a role model for countless young girls who dared to dream.

In my professional career, I continued to break barriers and challenge stereotypes. I joined a leading project of BRT Peshawar where I quickly made a place in the office, earning respect and admiration for my expertise and leadership. 

My journey was a testament to the power of support, encouragement, and belief in one's abilities. My father’s unwavering commitment to my dreams not only shaped my life but also sparked a change in the community. He has shown that when a daughter is given the same opportunities and support as a son, she can achieve greatness and inspire others to do the same.

In my family and friends, I stood as a symbol of strength, determination, and the limitless potential of women. My story is a beacon of hope, proving that with the right support, any dream can become a reality.