From a small school in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to the global stage of mentorship, Afshan Saleem’s journey is a powerful reminder that passion, perseverance, and the right support can break any barrier. As a standout Black Belt teacher in the 1 Million Teachers program and a mentor in HPMAT, Afshan is lighting the way for women educators across Pakistan to rise, lead, and inspire.

I have taught for more than 15 years, and I believe I have mastered the skills required of an educator. Teaching sparked a passion in my heart during Primary 4. Watching my teacher, the late Mrs. Agusiobo, in her class was fascinating. She was not just a teacher par excellence but also a mother. Her dedication to guiding and advising us to be the best versions of ourselves inspired me to become a teacher, impacting lives in the classroom. It was not an easy decision to make.