Empower The Voice

ZarghoonaWadood

"Inclusion is more than just a checkbox on an organization’s agenda. True progress necessitates genuine inclusion. The key is the understanding that disability isn’t simply an add-on to discussions but rather a key point in its own right. Creating inclusive spaces is imperative to ensure diverse voices are heard."

Provincial Coordinator (Balochistan), National Forum of Women With Disabilities | Deputy Chairperson, Balochistan Disability Act Council | Steering Committee Member, ARJC 2024 – Asia Safe Abortion Partnership | Consultant, UN Women | Disability Inclusion Focal Person, United Nations

Zarghoona Wadood has been working as a disability rights advocate for over 13 years. She has worked for gender equity, sexual and reproductive health rights (SRHR), and disability inclusion. Her journey started when one day her friend asked her to attend an event marked by the United Nations’ International Day of Persons with Disabilities. That event served as a catalyst, encouraging her to do welfare work for persons with disabilities. She started networking with people dedicated to the well-being of persons with disabilities. After realizing that Balochistan is a region where historically not much work has been done to uplift or empower individuals with disabilities in any sector, she stepped up to become the Provincial Coordinator of NFWWD. Over the years, she has engaged with both local and international platforms and has been advocating for people who are often sidelined in society. Working for the NFWWD, she brought her disability to the forefront and later on became the first disabled person to serve on the Balochistan Commission on the status of women and pushed for the passing of the Disability Rights Act. While the enactment has been done, implementation remains an issue. As part of the ASAP steering committee, she participated in a conference held in 2024 where she co-chaired a session on the inclusion of persons with disabilities in the discussion around sexual and reproductive health and rights.

key achievements

  • ISPR High Achiever Trophy in recognition of her efforts in the disability movement and work in Balochistan.
  • Global Award Winner by Rehabilitation International for Significant Contributions to the Disability Movement.
  • Co-chair at ARJC 2024

Areas of focus

  • Advocacy around the SRHR and
    persons with disabilities
  • ·Intersectional Rights advocacy
  • ·Provincial Disability reform