DR RUKHSAR KHAN

Rukhsar is a Doctor of Physical Therapy with expertise in psychology and a proven track record in gender equality and empowerment. As a Gender Expert and Program Manager for Women Empowerment, she has led initiatives addressing gender-based violence (GBV), fostering resilience, and promoting inclusive environments. Rukshar also writes under the pen name Dr. Psycho, sharing insights on mental health, gender equity, and well-being.

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Q: Tell us a few things about you! Your background, your childhood and early beginnings! 

I belong to a region in Pakistan where traditions run deep, and while those customs shaped many aspects of life around me, I always felt a quiet pull toward something more. I was raised in a home

where love was abundant, even if resources weren’t. My mother, though never formally educated, was the strongest influence in my life. Her belief in my abilities gave me the courage to believe in myself.

Growing up, I was a curious and observant child. I saw how women in my surroundings were often silenced or overlooked, and something about that never sat right with me. That early awareness slowly turned into a purpose.

I went on to complete my Doctor of Physiotherapy degree, followed by a Master’s in Psychology. But my journey wasn’t limited to clinics or classrooms. I found myself drawn into the heart of communities especially those where women were navigating violence, stigma, and silence. Becoming a Gender Focal Person wasn’t just a title—it was a chance to stand beside those women, advocate for their rights, raise awareness, and help build safer spaces.

Every step I’ve taken so far has been guided by both education and empathy—and by the strong urge to give back to the kind of girl I once was. 

Q: What are some of the key challenges in your society currently?

In the society I come from, several deep-rooted challenges continue to affect people’s everyday lives particularly women and marginalised communities. One of the most persistent issues is gender inequality, which quietly threads its way through education, employment, healthcare, and even household roles. Many girls are still denied opportunities simply because of the expectations placed on them from birth.

Another growing concern is mental health. Despite rising awareness, conversations around emotional well-being are still met with discomfort or denial. People are struggling, but stigma prevents them from seeking support.

We also face significant barriers in access to justice especially for survivors of gender-based violence. Even when laws exist, cultural pressures and lack of implementation often silence those who need help the most.

Lastly, economic instability continues to widen the gap between privileged and underserved groups. The lack of quality education and employment opportunities in remote or rural areas keeps generations trapped in cycles of poverty.

Addressing these issues isn't just about policy, it's about changing attitudes, breaking silence and investing in long-term community-led change.

Q: Share with us some of the hurdles that you had to overcome in your life so far? How did you handle them? 

Life has presented me with a mix of personal and professional challenges that shaped who I am today. Growing up in a context where open conversations about emotional pain or trauma weren’t encouraged, I often found myself carrying burdens in silence. Despite that, I always had a quiet determination to keep moving forward.

One of the major hurdles I faced was navigating higher education while also dealing with emotional struggles and societal pressure. Coming from a background where girls are often told to "adjust" rather than "aspire," choosing to pursue not just one, but two demanding degrees—Doctor of Physiotherapy and MSc in Psychology—was not easy. Many times, I felt pulled between responsibility and ambition. But I learned to lean into small wins, seek support from trusted people, and remind myself why I started in the first place.

In my professional journey, working on sensitive issues like gender-based violence came with its own emotional weight. Listening to others' pain while holding space for my own was tough, but I grounded myself by focusing on purpose—knowing that advocacy and awareness could prevent someone else from suffering in silence.

Rather than avoiding challenges, I’ve tried to meet them with reflection, resilience, and an open heart. That’s been my way forward.

Q: Why is the role of a mentor important for you? 

A mentor helps me see things from a different point of view. Having someone to guide me and share her experience really makes a difference. A mentor doesn’t just offer advice, she helps me grow with confidence. For someone like me, coming from a background where support was limited, having a mentor means having someone who believes in me and walks beside me as I take new steps in my journey. It’s not just about learning skills, it’s about building strength from within.

Q: Do you have a lesson that life has taught you and you would like to share? 

Yes, one important lesson life has taught me is that some battles must be fought alone and in silence. In those moments, your strength and your motivation come from within. No matter how hard things get, being resilient always helps you move forward.

Q: Name a project, a foundation or a person in your country that you think is doing great work in helping improve other people's lives! 

One organisation I truly admire is Akhuwat Foundation. They are doing amazing work by providing interest-free microloans to people in need, especially those who are trying to start small businesses. Their work is helping thousands of families become financially independent. I also appreciate how they focus on education and social support,reaching some of the most underserved communities in Pakistan.

Q: What are some of the challenges that women in your country face and what efforts are being made towards gender equality?

Women face problems,like violence at home and outside. Many women don’t get a good education or good jobs.

They often earn less than men for the same work. 

Laws are made to protect women, but not always followed properly. 

Some groups and NGOs help women by teaching skills and giving money support. There are campaigns to encourage girls to go to school.

Helplines and shelters are available for women who face abuse.

Q: Share with us a motto you live by. 

“The greatest fear in the world is the opinion of others.” (by Osho) 

It reminds you to stay true to yourself and not let others’ judgments hold you back. It’s simple, deep and motivating - perfect for living authentically.

Q: If you had all the money needed to launch the project of your dreams, can you describe what you would do? 

If I had all the money needed to launch the project of my dreams, I would create a comprehensive programme focused on empowering vulnerable women and girls across Pakistan. This project would provide education, healthcare, and mental health support, especially for survivors of gender-based violence. I would especially want to launch a project to help children who have suffered sexual abuse but are unable to share their experiences due to fear or other reasons. These children, both male and female, often carry the trauma silently, which affects their entire lives. I want to provide mental health services to these children and others like them, helping them move forward and rebuild their lives. To support this vision, I have also thought about starting my own NGO called (KHUWAB) This organisation would focus on healing, empowerment and creating safe spaces for survivors to find hope and strength. Additionally, I would organise awareness campaigns to change harmful social norms and promote gender equality.

My goal would be to create lasting change that lifts entire communities by supporting women’s rights and opportunities.

Q: How is technology utilised for social impact in your country? For example are there mobile apps that support gender equality, inclusion, understanding of cultures?

In my country, technology is increasingly being used to bring positive change. Several mobile apps and digital platforms are helping raise awareness around gender equality, mental health and inclusion. For example, "HUMQADAM" App connects survivors of gender-based violence with nearby support services in many districts. There are also platforms like "AAHUNG" that use online tools to promote reproductive health education and challenge harmful social norms. In Sindh, government and private initiatives are working to bring digital access to rural students and mental health services are now more available online, especially after COVID-19. Slowly but surely, technology is helping bridge gaps and giving people especially women and youth more access to knowledge, safety, and growth.

Q: Anything else that you may wish to add?  

Yes, I would just like to say that being part of this mentoring programme means a lot to me. I believe that learning never stops, and every person we meet adds something to our journey. I’m looking forward to growing, sharing and contributing with honesty and heart. Thank you for creating this space where stories, struggles and hopes are all valued.