In a world where stereotypes still shape career choices, women across the globe are steadily breaking barriers in science and technology. Among these changemakers is Laiba Zahid, a passionate Material Science Engineer and MS student in Advanced Materials Innovative Recycling at Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Spain. Her story is one of determination, leadership, and a vision to inspire women in STEM to rise beyond limits.
From an early age, Laiba noticed a pattern in society, ambitious girls were often encouraged to become doctors. “I wanted to challenge that stereotype and prove that women can succeed in any field, including engineering,” she shared. Fascinated by the physical world and deeply connected to the Earth, she was drawn to Materials Science Engineering, a discipline that bridges science, sustainability, and innovation. What began as curiosity soon evolved into a purpose: to show that women can shape the technologies and materials that build our future.
Laiba’s academic and research journey reflects her courage to explore beyond borders. She gained hands-on experience in some of Pakistan’s leading laboratories and later expanded her expertise internationally. Her work and collaborations across four to five different countries allowed her to interact with scientists from diverse cultural and technical backgrounds. “This exposure not only strengthened my confidence as a researcher but also showed me that women can thrive globally in science,” she said. Her global perspective is a message to young women everywhere that talent knows no boundaries, and their contributions are vital to global progress.
However, Laiba’s impact extends far beyond research. Her leadership journey is equally powerful. As the first female President of “Umeed We Shall Change,” she broke a long-standing belief within the organization that “females can’t do it.” Under her presidency, Umeed became a platform for empowerment and learning. She led initiatives that provided scholarships to deserving students who struggled financially and organized an annual Children’s Gala to inspire curiosity in young learners. Through fun and educational science activities like making water rockets and gliders, children were introduced to the joy of discovery and hands-on learning. Her leadership not only inspired youth but also changed perceptions paving the way for two more female presidents after her.
“The goal was always to bridge the gap between dreams and opportunities,” Laiba explained. “If we can inspire one child to believe in their potential, we’ve already started a wave of change.” Her approach to leadership embodies what empowerment truly means creating spaces where others can dream bigger and achieve more.
But the path to success hasn’t been without challenges. Laiba has often found herself as the only woman in meetings or research groups, a reminder of how underrepresented women still are in STEM fields. She also faced stereotypes questioning women’s technical skills and the ongoing struggle to balance professional growth with societal and family expectations. Yet, instead of being discouraged, she turned these challenges into motivation to advocate for inclusivity. “Women can overcome these barriers by supporting each other, advocating for their achievements, and pushing for institutional changes that promote inclusion and fairness,” she emphasized. Her words echo a broader truth progress in STEM requires not just individual success, but collective empowerment.
Laiba’s story represents the changing face of science, one where women are not just participants but pioneers. Her achievements highlight the importance of representation, mentorship, and perseverance. Every research project she takes on and every initiative she leads serves as a testament to how far women have come and how much further they can go when given the right opportunities.
When asked what message she would give to young women in Pakistan who aspire to lead and make a difference, her response was filled with conviction and hope:
“Be brave and be strong. Believe in yourself even when the world doubts you. Lead with confidence, break stereotypes, and aim high, even for a Nobel Prize because you absolutely can. I believe in you, and now it’s time for you to believe in yourself.”
Her resilience and achievements remind us that real change begins when courage meets purpose and, at She’s Beyond, we believe that when women rise, the world rises with them.
Let’s continue to be part of this movement to empower, uplift, and celebrate women who dare to break barriers, redefine possibilities, and inspire the next generation of leaders in STEM and beyond.
Written by Syed Zain Ali Abbas - an engineer and a curious soul who loves writing about people, society, and the small things that create big change. He believes in equality, empathy, and giving voice to ideas that inspire.
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