Najia Ashar is leading a powerful initiative under the PUAN Grants Program titled: “Pak-U.S. Entrepreneurship Collaboration Through Media and Engagement.” She is an alumna of the East-West Center Grant (2013) and a pioneer in media development.
With over 20 years of experience in journalism and media innovation, Najia has dedicated her career to empowering voices, especially women, through storytelling, advocacy, and digital media. She is the founder of GNMI in Pakistan and PULSE in the U.S., two platforms transforming media landscapes and promoting cross-border collaboration.
Through her PUAN-funded project, Najia will spotlight six successful, U.S.-supported ventures with a strong focus on women-led enterprises using strategic storytelling and digital outreach. The initiative includes:
- Six professionally produced video documentaries
- A one-day Pak-U.S. Business & Entrepreneurship Conference in Karachi
- A digital media campaign reaching 10,000+ viewers
- Partnerships with PUAN alumni, business leaders & the Pakistani-American business community
By showcasing real-world entrepreneurial success stories and fostering long-term business connections, this project aims to strengthen economic ties between Pakistan and the United States.