Karachi, November 15, 2024: Barrister Haya Emaan Zahid, Chief Executive Officer of the Legal Aid Society (LAS), has been recognized at the prestigious PILNET 2024 Global Awards in Bangkok, Thailand, where she was bestowed with the Global Pro Bono Publico Award. This esteemed accolade highlights her outstanding contributions in strengthening public-private partnerships and advancing critical legal aid services for marginalized communities, particularly prisoners, and legal empowerment programs across Pakistan.
Under Barrister Haya Zahid’s leadership, the Legal Aid Society has emerged, working tirelessly to provide vital legal assistance to those unable to afford representation. Through innovative programs, LAS has successfully empowered prisoners and vulnerable individuals, ensuring that they have access to justice and fair representation.
“I am deeply honored to receive the Pro Bono Publico Award, and I dedicate this recognition to all those who have been part of our journey in delivering justice for those most in need,” said Barrister Haya Zahid in her acceptance speech. “This award is a testament to the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors to create meaningful change, and I am proud of the strides we have made in strengthening legal aid services in Pakistan.”
The PILNET Global Awards are presented annually to individuals and organizations that have demonstrated extraordinary commitment to advancing pro bono work and the provision of legal services to underserved populations worldwide. Barrister Haya Zahid’s award highlights her exceptional role in advocating for prisoner rights, legal empowerment, and her tireless efforts in building partnerships that have had a lasting impact on the legal aid landscape.
Barrister Haya Zahid’s work continues to serve as an inspiration to both the legal community and the broader social justice movement, demonstrating the power of pro bono work in addressing critical societal issues.