In a historic achievement, Sehar Ijaz has become the first Pakistani girl to not only be nominated but also to win the prestigious Gold Coast Student Excellence Award. Hailing from Lahore, Pakistan, Sehar has shattered barriers and set a remarkable precedent in the realm of international student recognition. Her journey to this esteemed accolade began with a resounding victory at the National Amateur Short Film Festival in Pakistan (NASFF) last year, where she was acknowledged as one of the Top 15 filmmakers. This achievement opened the doors to a fully funded scholarship at the New York Film Academy (NYFA), and it’s noteworthy that this scholarship was generously sponsored by DP World, covering all expenses associated with her education at NYFA.
‘I must appreciate the sincere efforts of His Excellency the Chairman DP World, Mr. Sultan Bin Sulayem for making NASFF-22 a reality.’
Sehar Ijaz
Sehar’s Success Story
Sehar’s success story is not just about personal accolades; it’s a narrative of commitment, creativity, and a deep sense of responsibility towards making a positive impact on society. A recent graduate from a women’s university with a major in media studies, Sehar excelled academically, while also dedicating three years to voluntary work with various societies. Her commitment to fostering creative arts and addressing educational disparities in Baluchistan stands out prominently. As the President of the Kinnaird Literacy Society in her final year, she spearheaded a successful campaign that collected and donated over 3,000 books to girls’ schools, colleges and libraries in a region where educational access, especially for women, is limited.
As a distinguished filmmaker, Sehar earned the National Amateur Film Festival award in Pakistan, a testament to her talent and dedication. This accolade became a stepping stone for her journey to study in Australia at the prestigious New York Film Academy. At NYFA, she continued to distinguish herself by demonstrating a commitment to excellence, not only in her academic pursuits but also in supporting her fellow students in their filmmaking journeys.
Gold Coast Excellence Student Award
In her nomination for the Gold Coast Excellence Student Award in Fostering Creative Arts, Sehar Ijaz reflects on her journey and expresses gratitude for the opportunity to be considered for such an honor. Her unique background, coupled with her accomplishments, positions her as a strong contender for the award. Despite several students from NYFA being nominated for the Gold Coast Student Excellence Award over the last five years, none has claimed the coveted prize. Sehar Ijaz, however, exudes confidence and determination, breaking this streak and bringing the esteemed accolade home to Pakistan.
Sehar Ijaz’s story is not only one of personal success but also a powerful narrative of using creative talents to address societal challenges. As the Gold Coast Student Excellence Award considers its recipients, Sehar stands out as a beacon of inspiration, representing the potential of individuals to make a lasting impact through their commitment to excellence and creative arts.
