Meet the Heart and Soul of LEAPS!

 With an extensive career in the education sector, Aisha specialises in building and leading high-performing teams, fostering collaborative partnerships, and mobilizing support from government entities, local and international organisations.  She has spearheaded several educational projects that resulted in improved access to education, enhanced learning environments, and skill building opportunities for the underserved communities. 

Currently, Aisha heads LEAPS, a social enterprise that envisions a

 world where all children, regardless of their circumstances, have equal access to quality education, creative expression, and the opportunity to develop essential skills. 

Aisha holds a master’s degree in Education and Technology from University College London. She is also a FulbrightHumphrey fellow, having studied Educational Leadership and Project Management from The Pennsylvania State University. 

Asma Rao is a highly experienced communication professional with over fifteen years of expertise across diverse sectors. Throughout her career, Asma has witnessed the immense power of storytelling, its ability to transform mindsets, reshape perceptions, and drive significant change. An avid follower of global politics and passionate about societal issues that hinder growth, particularly in maternal and child health, gender equality and education, Asma’s career trajectory is a testament to her commitment to addressing these challenges as fundamental pillars of socio-economic development in Pakistan

Arfa Mirza has recently become a valuable addition to LEAPS in the capacity of a Digital Communications Manager. Currently serving as the Communications Manager at the Environmental Change Institute, University of Oxford, Arfa brings with her a diverse professional background, including expertise in advertising, journalism, digital media writing, and communication design. She earned her Masters in Media and Communication Sciences from the University of Ilmenau, Germany, specializing in digital communication.

Usama is a professional engineer who demonstrates an unwavering commitment to the advancement of engineering knowledge. He earned PhD from the University of Manchester and has consistently delivered significant contributions to numerous international organizations, showcasing expertise in conducting research and teaching. His track record of technical contributions and extensive engagement in STEM-focused initiatives establish him as an exemplary STEM program manager. Usama is determined to make STEM education accessible to all and make an enduring impact in LEAPS.

Waqas has joined LEAPS as a Research Partner. Currently, he serves as a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the Reuters Institute of Journalism, University of Oxford, where his work encompasses various areas such as comparative public attitudes, climate communication, and policy evaluation.

Previously, Waqas held the position of Assistant Professor at the National University of Science and Technology (NUST), Islamabad. He obtained his PhD from the Technical University of Ilmenau, Germany.  His research interests include digital media effects, mix method research, climate change, and political and computational communication.

Eesha is a highly driven individual with a passion for both business administration and digital media. Driven by her interest, Eesha pursued her career as a creative designer in the development sector, managing digital marketing, graphic designing, motion graphics and content marketing. Her blend of strategic thinking and artistic flair positions her as a valuable asset in the ever-evolving landscape of business and digital media. Eesha has an MPhil degree in Business Administration, specializing in Marketing with a focus on brand equity.

Ali is a highly accomplished individual with a PhD in Business Administration and a rich professional background spanning 19 years. His career has encompassed various sectors, allowing him to hold diverse positions and gather valuable experience. His dynamic journey includes working with universities, NGOs, TV channels, newspapers, and training institutes, providing him with extensive exposure to different realms.

Hamza has authored 18 research articles, written over 100 columns, and hosted more than 200 TV programs on a wide range of topics. This demonstrates his deep knowledge and expertise across diverse subject areas. Hamza's wide-ranging skills and expertise complement one another, enhancing his ability to navigate through different sectors and effectively address complex challenges. His holistic approach embraces the concept of unity in diversity, recognizing the value of diverse perspectives and experiences in achieving common goals.

With his impressive academic qualifications, extensive professional experience, and notable creative contributions, Hamza continues to make a significant impact in his field and beyond.