Rafia Saleem

2003 Eco-Hero

International Awards

Rafia Saleem
Age 15
Multan, Pakistan
Drinking Water

Rafia spoke out and wrote about problems of environmental degradation, in particular the dangers that youth are facing in urban and rural areas due to the contamination of drinking water. Striving to be heard even though she was young, she became the youngest person to present a paper at an international conference attended by government officials, policy makers and water experts. Rafia plans to continue promoting her environmental concerns through the media and by holding programs encouraging youth to express their concerns and to initiate action.

Where Are They Now? 2026 Update:

Since winning her Eco-Hero Award in 2003, Rafia Saleem has evolved into a powerhouse for social and environmental development in Pakistan, merging her passion for the planet with a sharp professional acumen.

Rafia’s journey led her to become a Chartered Accountant and a dedicated development professional. In 2014, she was selected by the Atlantic Council as an Emerging Leader of Pakistan, recognizing her dual impact in finance and environmental advocacy. She also famously scripted, produced, and hosted the eco-centered radio program "Sabz Khawab" (Dreaming Green), which used storytelling to educate thousands of listeners about climate change and pollution.

Her commitment to leadership and networking was further honed as an alumna of the Swedish Institute’s "Young Connectors of the Future" program, where she expanded her global perspective on social change. In recognition of her tireless service, she received the prestigious Presidential Aizaz-E-Sabqat (Award of Excellence) from the President of Pakistan and the Fatima Jinnah Memorial Gold Medal.

Today, you can follow her professional journey on LinkedIn, where she continues to demonstrate how financial expertise and environmental stewardship can work together to alleviate poverty and protect resources in South Asia.