New Delhi

Awaz-the Voice brings the stories of powerful women whose lives reflect resilience, purpose, and transformation across diverse fields from the southern State of Karnataka in the series Parvaz.

From media and medicine to education, literature, policing, and social service, these women have not only broken barriers but also redefined success through empathy, integrity, and impact. Their stories are not isolated achievements but collective narratives of change, each one a reminder that determination, when rooted in purpose, can uplift entire communities.

Ayesha Tabassum’s journey from television journalism to corporate communications is anchored in her commitment to people-first storytelling. Beginning her career in fast-paced newsrooms and covering defining moments like the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, she developed a deep understanding of narrative responsibility.

Ayesha Tabassum

Her transition into advertising and later into her role as Content Lead at Bengaluru International Airport reflects her ability to merge creativity with strategy. Today, she crafts impactful communication across platforms, guided by empathy, adaptability, and the belief that stories must connect with people to create meaning.

Dr. Asima Banu’s path in medicine stands out for its courage to choose the unconventional. At a time when microbiology was not widely pursued, she embraced it with purpose, going on to build a distinguished career spanning over two decades.

Dr. Asima Banu

Her contributions to infection control, trauma care, and medical education have been both practical and visionary. Known for building systems like a 24/7 emergency laboratory and advancing simulation-based training, she exemplifies leadership grounded in humility, teamwork, and accountability, particularly during challenging periods like the COVID-19 pandemic.

Dr. Fareeda Rahmathulla’s life reflects a deep commitment to education as a tool for social transformation. From her roots in rural Chikmagalur to her work in Bengaluru’s underserved communities, she has consistently worked to bridge educational gaps.

Dr. Fareeda Rahmathulla

By founding inclusive institutions and extending free education to underprivileged children, she has changed countless lives. Her parallel work in literature and women’s welfare further strengthens her impact, proving that true success lies in creating opportunities for others and nurturing dignity through learning.

Dr. Iffat Faridi’s journey blends intellectual depth with social compassion. With a strong academic foundation and a lifelong love for literature, she found her calling in educating underprivileged children.

Dr Iffat Faridi with her students

What began as a small effort to teach migrant labourers’ children grew into the Koshish Foundation, through which she has mentored and supported many young learners. Alongside her work as an educationist, her poetry and writing reflect cultural consciousness and emotional depth, reinforcing her belief that uplifting others and preserving roots are the true markers of success.

Dr. Sarvath Adil Khan’s work through the Learning Point Foundation has opened doors for those who once believed education was out of reach. Having faced her own academic interruption, she turned her experience into empathy-driven action, helping over 1,500 dropouts re-enter formal education.

Dr. Sarvath Adil Khan

Her approach goes beyond academics, integrating counselling, skill development, and vocational training. By focusing on dignity, confidence, and opportunity, she has enabled individuals and families to rebuild their futures.

Dr. Shaista Yusuf’s journey is a dynamic blend of literature, entrepreneurship, and cultural advocacy. Beginning as a young poet, she evolved into a celebrated voice in Urdu literature with works like Gul-e-Khudro and Sooni Parchaiyan.

Dr. Shaista Yusuf with Javed Khan

Her creative pursuits expanded into theatre, radio, and business ventures, where she balanced artistic passion with entrepreneurial vision. Through initiatives like Mehfil-e-Nisa, she continues to promote Urdu language and empower women, demonstrating that tradition and modernity can coexist harmoniously.

Dr. Zahida Khan’s life story is one of resilience and reinvention. Married at a young age and balancing motherhood early, she refused to let circumstances limit her aspirations.

Dr. Zahida Khan

Pursuing education with determination, she went on to earn a PhD and build a multifaceted career in media, administration, and entrepreneurship. Her work in social service, particularly through initiatives focused on education and empowerment, reflects her belief that education is freedom and a force that can transform generations.

Fouqia Wajid represents the power of storytelling as a tool for change. Growing up in a literary environment, she embraced writing early and later pursued mass communication despite societal skepticism.

Fouqia Wajid

As a filmmaker, producer, and Founder-CEO of Zooq Films, she has worked across television, cinema, and documentaries, bringing underrepresented voices to the forefront. Her work consistently addresses issues of identity, gender, and representation, driven by the belief that owning one’s narrative is essential to shaping society.

Najma Farooqui’s journey in policing redefines authority through empathy and trust. Inspired by strong personal values, she views her role as a bridge between the system and the people.

Najma Farooqui

Her experiences, including handling sensitive cases with compassion, have reinforced her commitment to ethical and people-centric policing. By prioritizing communication, teamwork, and community engagement, she demonstrates that leadership in uniform can be both firm and humane.

Professor Salma Begum’s life is a quiet yet powerful testament to the impact of education. Discovering her passion for teaching early in her career, she dedicated herself to making learning accessible and meaningful.

Prof. Salma Begum

Her willingness to adapt, including mastering Kannada to better connect with students, reflects her commitment to inclusive education. Alongside her academic achievements, she founded initiatives like SABALA to empower women, reinforcing her belief that education must build confidence, courage, and leadership.