April 7, 2026 12:49:49 PM
Saima Saleem is a trailblazing Pakistani diplomat and the first visually impaired woman to represent Pakistan at the United Nations, notably delivering a powerful speech using Braille at the UN General Assembly. She serves as a Counselor/Second Secretary at Pakistan's Permanent Mission to the UN, specializing in human rights.
Key Details About Saima Saleem:
- Breaking Barriers: She is the first visually impaired civil servant in Pakistan, achieving this after her success in the CSS exams forced a change in civil service rules.
- Education & Career: Saleem is a former lecturer at Kinnaird College, holds an M.Phil in English Literature, and is an alumna of Georgetown University's School of Foreign Service.
- UN Recognition: She gained international attention for delivering a strong "Right of Reply" on the Kashmir issue at the UN in 2021.
- Awards: She was awarded the Tamgha-i-Imtiaz (Medal of Excellence) for her meritorious services in diplomacy.
Saima Saleem lost her sight at age 13 but continued her education, overcoming systemic barriers to enter the Foreign Service of Pakistan in 2008. She is recognized as an advocate for disability inclusion and a prominent diplomat.
