Nida Yousaf Sheikh, a Pakistani female social innovator based in Lahore, has earned a spot among the top 10 winners of One Young World’s LEAD 2030 initiative, securing a $500,000 fund for sustainable development projects. Nida, the CEO of Tayaba Welfare International Association (TWIA), delivered a keynote speech at the annual conference in Belfast where she received this prestigious recognition.
This accomplishment places Nida Sheikh alongside young leaders from over 190 countries dedicated to driving social impact and catalyzing global change. The conference, attended by over 4,000 young leaders worldwide, featured Nida Sheikh as the sole representative from Pakistan.
The award funds will support various innovative solutions, including H2O wheels, hygiene kits, and solar water facilities, all integrated with advanced blockchain technology. “One Young World’s LEAD 2030 Challenge” is a globally recognized initiative led by prominent businesses with a mission to expedite solutions for the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through the efforts of dynamic young leaders. With an acceptance rate of less than 1%, this program stands as the gold standard for impactful youth-led projects.
Nida Sheikh was acknowledged for TWIA’s work in providing the H2O wheel, a 40-liter sustainable water-carrying device, and a portfolio of six H2O solutions for water and sanitation. Through these initiatives, TWIA has positively impacted the lives of half a million individuals in rural Pakistan.
Reflecting on her remarkable journey, Nida Sheikh encouraged young change-makers in Pakistan to innovate, collaborate, and participate on global platforms to drive positive change. She emphasized the importance of taking both small steps and ambitious leaps, embracing failure as a learning opportunity on the path to ultimate success.
