Overwhelmed, humble, motivated and inspired, these are just some of the words to describe how I felt when I received the "WIL Calendar of Firsts – 2024.” The Calendar, launched by the Women in Law Initiative to commemorate 100 years of women in law with the historic promulgation of the Legal Practitioners (Women) Act, 1923 which allowed women to practice law.
Receiving the "WIL Calendar of Firsts - 2024" was an overwhelming and deeply motivating experience. Each page reveals a story of resilience, courage, and revolutionary achievement by women in Pakistan's legal sphere. It's not just a calendar, but a chronicle of pioneering spirits who have carved out spaces for women in a traditionally male-dominated field.
The calendar features an inspiring collection of Pakistan's most influential women in the legal field. Each month honours a different woman, highlighting their ground-breaking achievements and contributions.
For instance, January spotlights Tabassum Ghazanfar, the youngest judge in the world at her time of appointment, while other months feature some of the many firsts including the first female Deputy Attorney-General for Pakistan Nahida Mehboob Elahi, and the first woman to serve as President of the Supreme Court Bar Association Asma Jahangir. Their remarkable stories include pioneering roles in high courts, advocacy for human rights, and leading important legal reforms.
Starting the year with the story of the world's youngest judge at her time of appointment, the calendar sets a tone of awe and inspiration. These women didn't just break glass ceilings; they shattered them. From the first female Deputy Attorney-General for Pakistan to the first female to be appointed as judge of the Federal Shariat Court Justice (r) Ashraf Jehan, each month brought a new story of determination and excellence.
Their accomplishments are not just personal triumphs but are milestones in the journey towards gender equality in law. These women have championed human rights, fought for the rule of law, and have been pivotal in leading important legal reforms. Their stories are beacons of hope, showing that with hard work and perseverance, barriers can be broken.
This calendar transcends its function of marking dates; it is a daily reminder of the power of perseverance, the importance of breaking barriers, and the responsibility of leaving a legacy for future generations. For any aspiring lawyer, particularly women, it's an affirmation that the legal profession is not only accessible but also offers the potential to make impactful changes in society.
The calendar also highlights the diverse ways in which these women have contributed to the legal field. From serving in high courts to leading advocacy for marginalized groups, their journeys are varied but united by a common thread of excellence and a commitment to justice. These stories are crucial in a world where representation matters.
Seeing these accomplished women in positions of power and influence can inspire young girls and women to pursue careers in law, knowing that their aspirations are valid and achievable. While sitting atop my desk, the calendar serves as a daily reminder to me of the power of resilience and the importance of paving the way for future generations. It instils a sense of pride and responsibility to continue the legacy these women have left. In moments of doubt or challenge, a glance at the calendar offers a surge of motivation and a reminder that great things are possible.
In summary, the "WIL Calendar of Firsts - 2024" is not just a collection of dates and names; it's a powerful testament to the impact and importance of women in law. It's a source of inspiration, not just for women in the legal profession but for anyone who believes in the power of breaking barriers and making history. It is a remarkable tribute to Pakistan's most influential women in law, featuring twelve exceptional legal luminaries who have made significant contributions to the field. This calendar serves as a potent symbol of female empowerment and progress in the legal profession.