Mahnoor Omer, a young Pakistani lawyer and activist, has been named one of the 16 distinguished women leaders featured in TIME magazine’s prestigious annual Women of the Year list. This recognition highlights individuals who have made significant strides toward creating a fairer and more just society. At only 25 years old, Omer’s decade-long commitment to advocating for gender equity and social justice has brought her international acclaim, shining a spotlight on her relentless efforts to dismantle barriers faced by women and marginalized groups in Pakistan.
Omer’s journey into activism began early in her life, driven by a deep sense of injustice and a desire to empower those around her. Reflecting on this milestone, she shared a touching memory from her teenage years: when she was 17, she crafted a personalized version of TIME magazine as a gift for her mother’s 40th birthday—a keepsake she still treasures. The irony and pride of now seeing her own name and image in the pages of the very publication she once recreated is not lost on her, symbolizing the remarkable path she has traveled.
Her activism took root at the tender age of 14 when she founded the Noor Foundation, motivated by dissatisfaction with existing efforts by non-governmental organizations to educate girls about sexual violence. Through this foundation, she organized educational workshops in rural communities, addressing critical issues ranging from climate change to menstrual health. It was during these grassroots interactions that Omer became acutely aware of the severe inequalities surrounding access to sanitary products. A conversation with a domestic worker about the prohibitive cost of pads and tampons underscored the widespread challenges faced by millions of Pakistani women and girls, especially in underserved areas.
Statistics from UNICEF reveal a stark reality: only about 12% of women in Pakistan use commercially manufactured sanitary products, with the vast majority resorting to cloth alternatives. This practice not only increases the risk of infections but also contributes to absenteeism among schoolgirls, perpetuating cycles of gender inequality. Recognizing the urgency of this issue, Omer took legal action by filing a groundbreaking petition against Pakistan’s so-called “period tax” in September last year. The case, which challenges the taxation that makes sanitary products unaffordable for many, had its initial hearing at the end of 2025 and currently awaits the government’s formal response.
Omer’s legal battle is supported by her dedicated lawyer, Ahsan Jehangir Khan, whose commitment has been instrumental in advancing the case. Beyond her activism, Omer is academically accomplished, holding a law degree and currently pursuing a master’s degree in gender, peace, and security at the London School of Economics. This blend of practical activism and academic expertise strengthens her advocacy and positions her as a formidable voice for women’s rights.
Receiving recognition from TIME magazine has only fueled Omer’s determination to continue her fight against injustice. She emphasizes that her freedom is incomplete until every woman in Pakistan—and beyond—is free from discrimination and inequality. Her vision extends beyond legal reforms to encompass broader social change, aiming to leave no stone unturned in her efforts to uplift women and gender minorities. This accolade serves as both a celebration of progress made and a stark reminder of the challenges that remain in achieving true gender parity across the country.
Mahnoor Omer’s story is a testament to the power of youth-led activism and the impact one individual can have on society. Her inclusion on TIME’s Women of the Year list not only honors her achievements but also inspires countless others to join the movement for a more equitable Pakistan. As she continues her journey, Omer remains a beacon of hope and resilience, advocating tirelessly for a future where every woman has equal access to opportunities and rights.
