Dr. Fatima Shah began her professional life as a qualified medical doctor and a passionate social worker, serving actively in the All Pakistan Women's Association (APWA) from 1948. Her work focused on empowering women and improving healthcare access across the country.
In 1960, tragedy struck—she lost her eyesight. This life-altering event forced her to leave the medical profession and momentarily retreat from public life.
Founder of PAB
Dr. Fatima Shah (Late)
A Beacon of Hope in the World of Darkness
Februry 11,1914
Sargodha, Pakistan
From Healing Others to Overcoming Her Own Battle
"When I lost my sight, I thought I had lost everything... but that was only the beginning of a greater purpose." — Dr. Fatima Shah
The Spark of a Global Vision
Her transformation began after meeting Dr. Isabelle Grant, a visually impaired educator from the United States. Inspired by Dr. Grant’s strength and global work, Dr. Shah found her purpose again.
In that same year—1960—she founded the Pakistan Association of the Blind (PAB) in Karachi, a historic step in the development of the blind movement in Pakistan.
In that same year—1960—she founded the Pakistan Association of the Blind (PAB) in Karachi, a historic step in the development of the blind movement in Pakistan.
Nationwide Growth and Global Recognition
Dr. Shah’s leadership turned PAB into a national and international symbol of empowerment. She:
Established district and provincial chapters across Pakistan.
Introduced educational, vocational, and social programs for the blind and disabled.
Represented Pakistan in numerous international conferences on disability rights.
"The blind do not need your sympathy—they need your understanding, your acceptance, and the opportunity to contribute." — Dr. Fatima Shah
25 Years of Dedicated Service
Dr. Shah served as President of PAB from 1960 to 1984, dedicating a quarter-century of her life to building a future for the visually impaired. Her pioneering spirit, resilience, and compassion continue to guide the association's mission.
In recognition of her unparalleled contributions, she was awarded several national and international honors, including the prestigious MBE (Member of the British Empire) during the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II.
In recognition of her unparalleled contributions, she was awarded several national and international honors, including the prestigious MBE (Member of the British Empire) during the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II.
Her Legacy Lives On
"Let us remove the barriers, not just of sight, but of attitude and understanding." — Dr. Fatima Shah
Today, her vision lives on in the thousands of lives touched by PAB. Every Braille book, white cane, or opportunity offered to a visually impaired person carries the mark of her enduring legacy.
A Final Word of Hope
“With the hope that reading this will inspire society to adopt a more positive and inclusive approach toward persons with disabilities.” — Dr. Fatima Shah
Donate us to achive our goal
Beguiled and demoralized by the charms of pleasure of the moment, so by desire,
that they cannot foresee.
that they cannot foresee.