Young Kashmiri talent shines at global stage

ISLAMABAD: Zujajah Shaikh, a young Kashmiri migrant student based in Islamabad, has brought pride to her community and country by achieving remarkable success in international essay competitions.

In 2021, Zujajah won the prestigious Bronze Award in the Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition (QCEC), organized by the British Royal Commonwealth Society. Competing against over 25,648 participants worldwide, her essay titled “Earthlings” delved into the theme: “It’s been 30 years since the end of the Covid-19 pandemic. How does the world look like?”

Her thought-provoking story highlighted the long-term effects of the pandemic on daily life and humanity’s duty to protect the Earth. The essay delivered a powerful message:
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Continuing to showcase her literary talent, Zujajah excelled in another global competition in October 2024. She earned an Honorable Mention Certificate in the Youth Category of the International Essay Contest for Young People, organized by the Goi Peace Foundation. Her essay on the theme “My Experience of Overcoming Conflict” demonstrated deep insight and creativity.

Zujajah’s accomplishments extend beyond writing. In 2020, she represented Pakistan as one of 1,000 Asian students selected for the Asia Kakehashi Program under the AFS Intercultural Program Japan.

An active member of the UNO Women Awareness Program, Zujajah continues to contribute significantly to education and social development initiatives, making her an inspiring role model for youth across Pakistan.