Karachi: Maheen Zakariya began her academic journey at Yale University with an ambition to address Pakistan’s energy crisis. However, a shift in her career path led her back to Pakistan, where she pursued a degree in medicine at Aga Khan University (AKU) to make a more direct impact on people’s lives.
At AKU, Maheen launched the Humanity Initiative Programme, mobilizing students from universities across Karachi to provide support for vulnerable communities. Her leadership roles in the initiative, including General Secretary and President, were pivotal during the 2022 floods in Pakistan.
To address healthcare accessibility, Maheen co-founded student-led clinics in Karachi’s slums. These clinics aimed to deliver quality care and promote health-seeking behaviors among underserved populations. Maheen regards the Humanity Initiative as a transformative experience in her medical career.
Maheen’s innovative approach extends beyond traditional medicine. Through her project ‘Canvas of Care’, she integrated art with medical practice, emphasizing the human aspect of surgery. Her research endeavors included exploring genetic links in diseases and advocating for public health policies both in Pakistan and internationally.
In addition to her medical pursuits, Maheen has actively participated in public discourse on sensitive issues such as abortion and gender bias in research. She shared her insights at TEDxAga Khan University in 2024, emphasizing the importance of curiosity and change-making.
Maheen completed her MBBS at AKU in 2025. Her goal remains to foster equity in healthcare and enhance medical education by blending science with humanity.