The National Forum of Women with Disabilities (NFWWD) was established in 2009 by women with disabilities who were determined to create a strong, collective voice for their community across Pakistan. For too long, women with disabilities had been excluded from decisions that shaped their lives; from health and education to employment, politics, and community development. NFWWD was born out of a determination to change this reality by building a platform where women with disabilities could come together, organize, and lead.
Since its founding, NFWWD has worked alongside Disabled People’s Organizations (DPOs), government bodies, NGOs, and international partners to advance inclusion and equality. Our clear goal is to ensure the full and equal participation of women with disabilities in social, economic, and political life.
Through advocacy, leadership development, and capacity building, NFWWD empowers women with disabilities to claim their rights, strengthen their leadership, and take part in shaping policies and processes that affect their futures. We believe women with disabilities are not only beneficiaries of change but leaders and essential contributors to Pakistan’s progress.
We envision a just, inclusive society where women with disabilities live with dignity, respect, and equality, fully empowered to participate in all areas of life.
Our mission is to promote their full and equal participation in social, economic, and political life by advancing advocacy, leadership development, and capacity building.
We focus on women with disabilities who are often among the most marginalized, providing them with training, and a platform to advocate for their rights. Through workshops, leadership programs, and research, we aim to empower individuals and communities for lasting change.
We are proud to share that Yusra Gilani, International Coordinator of NFWWD and Psychosocial Support Worker at STEP, has been selected to participate in the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) 2025, organized by the U.S. Department of State.
Under the theme “Disability Rights Implementation and Leveraging Cross-Section Advocacy”, Yusra will represent Pakistan from August 16 to September 6, 2025. During this prestigious program, she will engage with U.S. lawmakers, disability rights advocates, inclusive employers, and global leaders to exchange ideas and explore strategies for advancing accessibility, democratic participation, and the meaningful inclusion of persons with disabilities.
Her participation reflects NFWWD’s growing international presence and commitment to strengthening advocacy for women with disabilities at both national and global levels
The National Forum of Women with Disabilities (NFWWD) is proud to announce the signing of a Letter of Intent (LOI) with the National Commission on the Status of Women (NCSW).
This landmark partnership represents a significant step forward in promoting inclusive development, challenging discriminatory attitudes, and empowering women with disabilities to achieve their full potential.
Together, NFWWD and NCSW are committed to building a more inclusive and equitable society, ensuring that women with disabilities have equal opportunities to participate, contribute, and thrive.
Renowned social activist Tasneem Abbas has been nominated for the prestigious Sitara-e-Imtiaz, one of Pakistan’s highest civil awards. She will be honored with this distinction on March 23, 2026.
Tasneem Abbas has consistently played a leading role in advocating for the welfare and rights of people with diverse abilities. She runs the Darul Hunar Foundation in Gilgit, an independent center dedicated to developing the skills of individuals with special needs and empowering them to live life on an equal footing with others in society.
Her dedication, vision, and tireless efforts continue to inspire change and promote inclusive development across the region.
A community of empowered women with disabilities, united to lead change and inclusion across Pakistan
