As part of the PUAN National Internship Program 2025, Maha Ali Siddiqui, a YES 2021–22 alumna, young entrepreneur, and social sciences student, has been making strides in leadership, community engagement, and environmental advocacy under the mentorship of Marukh Zahir Shah (Developing Next Generation Female Environmentalists 2023 alumna).

Maha brings with her a passion for volunteering, youth leadership, and social impact. She has organized health and hygiene awareness drives, led projects on physical well-being, and conducted seminars on U.S. Government scholarship opportunities. Alongside academics and volunteer work, she also serves as the President of the Welfare Society at her college, reflecting her dedication to youth-led change.

During her internship, Maha has gained firsthand exposure to policymaking and environmental education. She attended a landmark meeting at the Directorate of Higher Education, Peshawar, chaired by Dr. Fareedullah Shah (Director Higher Education), where the environmental curriculum for government colleges at the intermediate level was finalized. The session brought together senior officials and faculty members to shape the future of environmental education in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

She also represented her internship experience at the Local Conference of Youth (LCOY) KPK, held at the Governor House, where youth leaders gathered to accelerate action on climate change and sustainability. Alongside, Maha has joined the Green Youth Movement (GYM) Club at her university, strengthening her role as a climate advocate and changemaker.

Maha credits the PUAN Internship Program 2025 and her mentor, Marukh Zahir Shah, a climate change ambassador, activist, and education leader, for providing her with guidance and opportunities that are shaping her journey. From grassroots initiatives to policy-level engagement, Maha’s story reflects the transformative power of mentorship, youth leadership, and alumni networks in advancing sustainability and social development in Pakistan.