The National Institute of Banking and Finance (NIBAF) Pakistan successfully conducted a two-day workshop titled “Women Leadership Workshop – Turning Vision into Lasting Impact,” focused on empowering women professionals across the financial sector. The event, held at NIBAF’s Karachi Campus from October 27–28, 2025, aimed to strengthen leadership capabilities, inspire transformation, and foster a culture of inclusion and innovation among women in banking and finance.
The workshop brought together participants from the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP), SBP Banking Services Corporation (SBP-BSC), Pakistan Security Printing Corporation (PSPC), NIBAF, and various commercial banks. It served as a platform for women leaders and emerging professionals to engage in experiential learning, share perspectives, and explore practical strategies for building impactful leadership in dynamic corporate environments.
The sessions were led by Ms. Rahila Ashraf, an experienced trainer and leadership development expert known for her work in organizational transformation and personal growth. Through interactive discussions, real-world case studies, and team exercises, Ms. Ashraf guided participants on how to navigate challenges, enhance decision-making skills, and develop an authentic leadership style rooted in empathy, resilience, and strategic vision.
The workshop placed particular emphasis on developing women’s leadership potential within Pakistan’s financial ecosystem—a sector where women’s representation at senior levels remains limited. NIBAF’s initiative aligns with the broader vision of the State Bank of Pakistan to promote gender diversity and inclusivity within the financial industry. By providing such developmental opportunities, the institution seeks to bridge skill gaps, promote equitable career growth, and encourage women to take on greater leadership responsibilities within their organizations.
Speaking at the event, participants appreciated the workshop’s comprehensive approach to leadership enhancement. The discussions delved into areas such as emotional intelligence, communication mastery, conflict resolution, team building, and change management. Many participants highlighted how the program helped them identify their leadership strengths and areas for improvement, enabling them to align personal aspirations with organizational goals.
NIBAF’s “Women Leadership Workshop” also encouraged networking and peer learning among women from various departments and institutions. By fostering collaboration and shared experiences, the event helped participants build stronger professional networks—an essential factor in empowering women to step into key decision-making roles.
The program underscored that leadership extends beyond titles and positions. It emphasized cultivating a mindset that prioritizes impact, inclusivity, and purpose-driven growth. Ms. Ashraf’s facilitation encouraged participants to translate their vision into actionable strategies that can influence teams, shape organizational culture, and contribute to broader institutional success.
As Pakistan’s financial landscape continues to evolve with increased digitization and modernization, the role of women leaders becomes even more significant. Empowering women with leadership tools and knowledge not only strengthens individual performance but also enhances institutional innovation, customer engagement, and policy formulation within the sector.
NIBAF, as the training arm of the State Bank of Pakistan, continues to lead initiatives that promote learning, capacity building, and professional excellence. Over the years, it has emerged as a key driver of talent development in the country’s banking industry, equipping professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate emerging challenges and opportunities.
The success of this workshop marks another milestone in NIBAF’s ongoing commitment to fostering gender-inclusive leadership across the financial sector. Through continuous learning and empowerment programs, NIBAF aims to help shape a new generation of women leaders who will drive innovation, ethical governance, and sustainable progress in Pakistan’s economy.
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