ASP Shehrbano Naqvi Selected for Asia Society Fellowship

ASP Shehrbano Naqvi has become the first woman police officer from Pakistan to be selected for the Asia Society’s 21 Next Generation Fellowship.

Her induction into the 2025 cohort reflects years of work focused on protecting vulnerable groups and pushing for much-needed reforms within law enforcement.

The fellowship, which gathers promising leaders from around the world, will be hosted in the Philippines from December 5 to December 7, 2025.

Thirty exceptional individuals representing 27 different countries are reportedly scheduled to attend, with participants expected to share ideas on solving complex global challenges.

Punjab Police confirmed her selection in a statement, while Inspector General Dr Usman Anwar described the honour as a proud moment for Pakistan.

Dr Anwar emphasised that the achievement underscores how the performance of Punjab Police officers is being recognised at international forums.

He said: “It is a matter of pride that the performance of our officers is being recognised at the international level.”

Shehrbano Naqvi first rose to prominence in 2023 when she courageously intervened to save a woman attacked by a violent mob in Lahore’s Ichhra Market.

The incident drew national attention and earned her respect as an officer unafraid to confront danger in order to protect citizens.

Her new fellowship not only acknowledges that personal bravery but also her commitment to structural changes in policing that prioritise marginalised communities.

The Asia 21 Next Generation Fellowship is widely considered one of the most prestigious platforms highlighting young leaders across multiple fields.

The recognition of a Pakistani policewoman speaks to the increasing visibility of women in law enforcement, long dominated by men.

In recent years, female officers from Pakistan have garnered growing international acclaim for their professional accomplishments and contributions to policing.

In March 2025, Anum Khan Muhammad Sher of Sargodha was awarded the Excellence in Criminal Investigation Award at Dubai’s World Police Summit.

Her recognition came for successfully investigating two high-profile murder cases, which highlighted the calibre of female investigators working in Pakistan.

In October 2024, Rawalpindi’s SP Beenish Fatima was named among the IACP 40 Under 40 by the International Association of Chiefs of Police.

Her honour, presented in Boston, credited her strong leadership qualities and innovative policing strategies that served as examples to her peers.

Now, ASP Shehrbano Naqvi’s selection for the Asia fellowship continues this trend, placing her alongside women officers raising Pakistan’s profile internationally.