ASP Shehrbano Naqvi Selected For Prestigious Asia 21 Fellowship

ASP Shehrbano Naqvi becomes Pakistan’s first female police officer selected for the Asia 21 Fellowship, earning global recognition

ASP Shehrbano Naqvi Selected For Prestigious Asia 21 Fellowship

Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Shehrbano Naqvi has made history by becoming the first female police officer from Pakistan to be selected for the prestigious Asia Society 21 Next Generation Fellowship. She has been included in the Class of 2025 for her commitment to protecting vulnerable communities and advancing systemic reforms within law enforcement.

According to a Punjab Police spokesperson, ASP Shehrbano Naqvi’s selection reflects her dedication to community service and progressive policing. The fellowship will be held in the Philippines from December 5 to 7, where 30 young leaders from 27 countries will gather to present innovative solutions to pressing social challenges across Asia.

Punjab Inspector General of Police, Dr Usman Anwar, congratulated Shehrbano Naqvi, describing her achievement as a proud moment for the force and the country. “It is a matter of pride that the performance of Punjab Police officers is being recognised at the international level,” he said.

ASP Shehrbano Naqvi rose to prominence in 2023 after rescuing a woman from a violent mob in Lahore’s Achhra Market. Her act of courage earned her national recognition as a symbol of bravery and professionalism in Pakistan’s police service.

Her achievement follows a series of international recognitions for women officers in Pakistan’s police force. In March 2025, Sargodha officer Anum Khan Muhammad Sher won the Excellence in Criminal Investigation Award at the World Police Summit in Dubai. Earlier, in October 2024, SP Beenish Fatima, then serving as Chief Traffic Officer Rawalpindi, was named among the IACP 40 Under 40 in Boston, honouring her leadership and service.

ASP Syeda Shehrbano Naqvi’s selection for Asia 21 marks another milestone in showcasing the growing role of Pakistani women in global law enforcement leadership.

Talal Maqbool serves as the Assistant Editor for The Friday Times