Two talented Dubai-based Pakistani women were honoured by the Pakistan Professionals Wing (PPW) for their distinguished achievements and for projecting a positive image of their country. “Tonight, we are awarding adventurer and artist Namira Saleem, and film director and producer Amnah Khaishgi who are the source of pride for us all,” said Munir Mahmoud, Chairman of the PPW at a ceremony recently in Dubai.

He said the PPW members shared their joy with these outstanding ladies who excelled in their respective fields and got recognition for their country at international forums. Khaishgi has written and directed a short film called Leap of Faith which was widely appreciated by the global audience at the Cannes Film Festival this year, as well as at the Abu Dhabi Film Festival 2010. Saleem is an artist and adventurer, who became the first Pakistani woman to conquer the North and South poles in addition to tandem skydiving from Mount Everest.

A farewell award was also presented to Caption (Retd) Ejaz-ul Haq, ex-chairman PPW, for his continuous support. Commenting on the occasion, Pakistan’s Consul General HE Tariq Iqbal Soomro said: “The honour given to two ladies was an excellent step taken by PPW for the positive image of the country. I congratulate the PPW’s great work, especially their contribution towards education and social welfare.”

The PPW has given about Dhs.1 million as school fees to more than 200 underprivileged students from 112 families during the past nine months. Six Pakistani students have also been given scholarships for the first time to pursue higher studies.

“I am thankful to the PPW members for their contributions towards this noble cause despite financial constraints,” said Mahmood who also presented the mid-term report of the PPW