ASP Shehrbano Becomes First Pakistani Female Officer to be Selected for Asia 21 Next Generation Fellowship

Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Syeda Shehrbano Naqvi has made history by becoming the first female police officer from Pakistan to be selected for the prestigious Asia 21 Next Generation Fellowship.

The announcement was confirmed by a Punjab Police spokesperson following the publication of the fellows’ list by the Asia Society. Naqvi has been named to the Asia 21 Class of 2025 in recognition of her dedicated efforts to safeguard vulnerable communities and her work toward systemic reform in Pakistan’s policing framework.

According to the Punjab Police, 30 outstanding individuals from 27 countries were chosen for this fellowship, which highlights emerging leaders across Asia who demonstrate exemplary leadership and a commitment to driving social impact.

The Asia 21 Next Generation Summit will be held in Manila, Philippines, from December 5 to 7, 2025, where Naqvi and fellow participants will present practical solutions to pressing global challenges.

Congratulating her on the achievement, Punjab Inspector General of Police (IGP) Dr. Usman Anwar described Naqvi’s selection as a proud moment for Pakistan and the Punjab Police. “Her selection not only brings international recognition to our force but also highlights the growing role of women in transforming law enforcement in Pakistan,” he stated.

Naqvi’s induction into this influential global network of changemakers is regarded as a milestone in strengthening cross-border collaboration and elevating Pakistan’s presence in international leadership circles.

ASP Shehrbano Naqvi first rose to national prominence in March 2024, when she courageously intervened to rescue a woman attacked by an angry mob in Lahore’s Ichhra area for wearing clothes supporting the Urdu script. For her bravery, she was awarded the Quaid-e-Azam Medal for Valour and has since been entrusted with several key appointments within the police force, which she has carried out with competence and determination.

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