Aneed's journey into nursing wasn't an obvious choice. Like many, he had his own misconceptions about the field, but it became a path he was drawn to over time. Encouraged by Aga Khan University (AKU) alumni, including his uncle, he began exploring the field and found his interest growing as he learned more. “The more I explored, the more I understood the crucial role nursing plays in Pakistan's healthcare system," he reflects. “I realized how important it is to have skilled nurses, especially in underserved areas."
Growing up in Hunza, a region in northern Pakistan with limited access to quality healthcare, Aneed witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of medical neglect, including the loss of his father. This loss planted the seeds of a dream: to improve healthcare in underserved areas.
Raised by his single mother, Aneed had always been under her protective care, ensuring he stayed safe and on the right path. But when he received his admission for bachelor's in nursing at AKU's School of Nursing and Midwifery, her outlook changed. “She told me, 'I'm not worried about you anymore—your life is settled now,'" he recalls with a smile. “She trusted AKU to provide me with the kind of future she always dreamed of for me."
And she was right, says Aneed. “AKU doesn't just provide education; it empowers you," he reflects. “The support I've received here—whether through mentorship, resources, or opportunities—has been life-changing."
Once a shy student who preferred the backseat, he has now blossomed into a confident leader, managing student societies and organizing events that engage and inspire his peers. His journey at Falah, a student social welfare society, began with a small marketing role, where his innovative idea to use memes and videos for outreach revolutionized how student societies connected with audiences. “What started as a simple experiment is now a standard practice," he proudly notes. His efforts led him to become Convener of the society.
As the Convener of Falah, he led a team of 60 members, organizing over 13 impactful events. “I didn't know I had it in me to lead," he shares. “But AKU trusted me, gave me room to explore, and helped me discover my potential."
Beyond leadership, Aneed has pursued original research on nursing uniforms, supported by AKU's faculty. With plans to pursue a master's degree as a nurse practitioner and later transition to healthcare administration, his ultimate goal is to return to Hunza and transform healthcare systems from within.
“I owe AKU so much. It's not just about learning here—it's about building resilience, gaining confidence, and nurturing a genuine motivation to change the world. And that's exactly what I plan to do."
