UPG Viewer

24 Years Old

Pakistan

Female

Yes! That is really who you are!

About Me
My name is Zara, and I’m a passionate individual deeply engaged in the fields of management and accounting. I began my academic journey with a graduation degree in management and accounting, laying the foundation for my professional and intellectual pursuits. Currently, I am advancing my expertise by pursuing an MS in Accounting, which is both challenging and rewarding.

In parallel with my studies, I have the privilege of working as an Associate Lecturer at ISLB. This role allows me to blend my love for teaching with my subject knowledge, inspiring the next generation of learners while refining my own understanding. I take immense pride in creating an engaging and supportive learning environment where students can thrive.

Strengths and Growth
Throughout my journey, I’ve discovered that my strengths lie in my ability to balance multiple responsibilities, my dedication to lifelong learning, and my genuine passion for empowering others through education. Like everyone, I have areas where I continue to grow, such as refining my research skills and expanding my global perspective on accounting practices, but I see these as opportunities rather than challenges.

Why Me?
What makes me unique is my blend of academic rigor, practical experience, and a strong commitment to contributing positively to the academic community Beyond academics, I am actively engaged in research work, with a particular focus on writing research articles. Diversity in experiences and perspectives enriches learning, and I bring my own distinctive voice to the table.

I am excited about the opportunities ahead and remain committed to becoming the best version of myself while making a meaningful impact in my field.

Passion for Sustainability A strong dedication to environmental protection and social impact drives my actions and decisions. Leadership Skills Ability to inspire and mobilize communities, fostering collaboration and teamwork to achieve common sustainability goals. Analytical Thinking Skilled in assessing challenges, developing strategic solutions, and adapting to changing circumstances effectively. Strong Communication Abilities Experience in engaging diverse audiences through clear and persuasive messaging about sustainability issues. Commitment to Continuous Learning A proactive approach to acquiring knowledge, especially on global trends and practices in sustainable development. Resilience and Adaptability Capacity to remain focused, flexible, and motivated in overcoming challenges. Collaboration Skills Competence in building partnerships, leveraging networks, and working with others to implement impactful projects. Community Engagement Experience in promoting participation at the grassroots level and aligning efforts with local needs and culture.

During my undergraduate studies, I noticed a lack of awareness about the harmful impacts of single-use plastics on the environment among students and faculty. Recognizing the need for action, I initiated a campus-wide campaign to reduce plastic waste.

I started by organizing a small group of like-minded students and delegated tasks based on each member’s strengths. As the leader, I planned the campaign, facilitated brainstorming sessions, and ensured everyone felt involved and motivated. To gain wider support, I communicated with university administration and faculty to approve the campaign and secure resources.

Our efforts included awareness sessions, distributing reusable bottles, and installing recycling bins across the campus. Within a few weeks, the campaign gained momentum, and many students actively participated by reducing plastic use. Faculty also integrated sustainability discussions into their lectures, creating a ripple effect.

By effectively utilizing my leadership skills to guide, inspire, and organize, we achieved a measurable reduction in plastic waste and created lasting environmental awareness on campus.

I regret to inform you that I have not had the opportunity to volunteer. This is primarily due to my focus on academic and professional commitments, which have occupied most of my time and energy. However, I deeply value the importance of volunteering and its role in creating positive change in communities. I aspire to engage in volunteering opportunities in the future, as I believe they provide invaluable experiences and foster personal growth, leadership, and a sense of social responsibility.

Graduate: I have completed a graduate degree (e.g. I have a Masters degree or PhD)

If I were to lead a sustainability-related project, I would focus on establishing a community-based waste management and recycling initiative. The project would involve organizing local clean-up efforts, setting up recycling stations, and educating residents about reducing waste and the benefits of recycling.

I would do this because improper waste disposal and lack of awareness around recycling are growing issues in many communities. Such an initiative can have immediate positive impacts on reducing pollution, conserving resources, and fostering a sense of community ownership over the local environment.

I feel capable of leading this project due to my strong leadership skills and community engagement experience. By involving local leaders and businesses in the project, we could create a comprehensive system that not only addresses waste management but also provides long-term environmental benefits. The project would also serve as a platform to inspire collective action toward other sustainability goals in the community.

1. Lack of Awareness and Engagement
Many community members might not be fully aware of the importance of recycling or how to participate effectively in waste management. This could result in reluctance to change established habits.

How to Overcome It:
I would address this challenge through targeted awareness campaigns. I would organize community workshops, school programs, and social media campaigns to educate residents about the environmental and economic benefits of recycling. Engaging local leaders and influencers to spread the message would also help build momentum and encourage active participation.

2. Resistance to Change
Some individuals may resist adopting new habits, such as sorting waste or using recycling bins. Cultural and behavioral shifts take time, and changing long-standing habits can be difficult.

How to Overcome It:
To overcome this, I would ensure that the initiative is inclusive and shows immediate benefits. Starting with small wins, such as organizing a visible cleanup drive or showing how recycling can reduce waste in local areas, would help to motivate people. Providing incentives, such as rewarding households that recycle regularly, would further encourage participation.

3. Funding and Resources
Initiating a waste management and recycling project can require upfront funding for bins, educational materials, and logistical support. Obtaining financial support might be a challenge, especially if there is limited buy-in from local authorities or businesses.

How to Overcome It:
I would explore partnerships with local businesses, NGOs, and government agencies to secure funding. Additionally, I would apply for grants aimed at environmental sustainability. Crowdfunding campaigns can also be an effective tool to engage the community financially, allowing people to directly contribute to the cause.

4. Logistical Challenges in Waste Collection
Setting up an efficient waste collection system might face logistical obstacles, particularly in coordinating the transport of recycled materials and ensuring that collection points are easily accessible.

How to Overcome It:
To address this, I would work with local waste management authorities or collaborate with private recycling companies to design an efficient waste collection plan. I would also seek community involvement in managing collection points, ensuring that it’s a joint effort that brings people together to maintain the initiative sustainably.

5. Sustainability of the Initiative
Ensur

About 100 people

No or Not Yet

Dear UPG Team, Thank you for this opportunity. I would like to kindly inform you that I am unable to submit a video due to my personal adherence to Islamic principles. However, I have provided thoughtful and detailed written responses in my application, which I hope effectively convey my experiences, qualifications, and aspirations.

This is the wildcard section. As an evaluator, please provide a rating based on your overall impression and your sincere gut feeling about this application. No other justification is required.