Pakistani law graduate Alizey Khan received the Diana Legacy Award for her work in social services and humanitarian efforts in Pakistan, becoming the first woman from the country to receive the honour.

The award is given out every two years to 20 young leaders from across the world in recognition of excellence in their field.. 

Prince William presented Alizey, who is only 26, with the award in London On March 14.

Khan opened the the Ruhil Foundation in 2016 was opened by to fight food issues by distributing ration bags and cooked meals to people in need. Khan also worked during the pandemic to give basic food and other items to flood-hit families in Punjab, Sindh, and Balochistan provinces.

On Wednesday, Khan gave an interview to Arab News, highlighting that many women are engaged in social work and welfare tasks in Pakistan, deserving global acknowledgment; however, they lack exposure.

She expressed that she was grateful for the award as it illuminates the valuable contributions of Pakistani women. She hopes that it encourages women to work, receive nominations, and gain recognition through international awards.

“I received the award due to my consistent involvement in humanitarian efforts as I commenced my humanitarian work at the age of 16, and over the past decade, I have significantly expanded both the scope and reach of my initiatives,” she said.

Khan also pointed out that she is proud to be the first woman to be the recipient of this award, as Army Public School shooting survivor Ahmed Nawaz received this award. 

“We also undertake the adoption and reform of various orphanages, ensuring their efficient and effective operation by connecting them with our network of donors,” she added.

She highlighted the work and efforts put in by her organization as she distributed 5,500 monthly meals and 10,000 meals from April 2016 to March 2022. She focused on education and shelter, raising around $150,000.

During that time, Khan supplied 1,000 interest-free emergency loans, 600 sanitary pads, 1,100 blankets for the winter, 200 weddings, and monthly stipends to 25 transgender individuals and widows.

“Among the 20 recipients of the Legacy Award this year, I raised the most funding for my projects, enhancing their impact and sustainability,” she stated.

She concluded that recipients of this award need stability and prolonged work.