The following text was kindly shared with WFAD by our member organisation, Youth Council for Anti-Narcotics (YOCFAN), through its project, the Drug Advisory Training Hub (DATH), highlighting their recent activity in connection with International Women’s Day.

An annual awards ceremony was organised to mark the occasion of International Women’s Day, celebrating the achievements and contributions of women in various fields. The annual ceremony was arranged by the Drug Advisory Training Hub (DATH), a project of the Youth Council for Anti-Narcotics (YOCFAN), with the aim of recognising women’s excellence while also promoting awareness about drug prevention in society.

The ceremony was presided over by Syed Zulfiqar Hussain, Consultant, Anti-Drugs Narcotics Campaign and Prevention Specialist on Drugs. In his keynote address, he highlighted the vital role of women in the development and progress of society. He emphasised that women’s active participation in sectors such as politics, education, healthcare, and business reflects encouraging progress and positive societal change.

He further said that women must take a proactive role in combating drug abuse. Women, especially mothers, educators, and community leaders, have a strong influence in shaping attitudes and behaviours within families and communities. He expressed concern over the increasing use of chemical drugs among young women in educational institutions and pointed out that female community leaders can play a crucial role in raising awareness and helping to eliminate this growing threat. He said that the use of vaping among women is a new threat to society.

During the ceremony, awards were presented to women who demonstrated outstanding performance and dedication in their respective fields. Among the award recipients were Mrs. Tahira, Assistant Director, Airport Security Force (ASF); Dr. Maria Ali, Assistant Director, Anti Narcotics Force (ANF); Ms. Fehmida Zeeshan, In-charge Education Wing, City Traffic Police Lahore; Ms. Ruqia Bano from Rescue 1122; Ms. Ayesha from Home Economics University; educationist Saima Chaudhry; Advocate Ms. Abreen; and senior journalist Ms. Saima Nawaz. Their achievements were recognised as inspiring examples of commitment, leadership, and service to society.

The ceremony concluded with a renewed commitment to empower women and involve them actively in social development and anti-drug initiatives. The event not only celebrated women’s accomplishments but also served as a platform to raise awareness about the importance of collective efforts in building a drug-free and progressive society.

The event was attended by several distinguished guests, including Vice Chairman Syed Mohsin, Secretary Adeel Rashid, Member ECC Manzoor Ahmed, Ziaullah Mirza, and Pastor Shaukat, who showed their support for the cause and appreciated the efforts of the organisers.

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