My personal mission revolves around improving healthcare accessibility and enhancing the well-being of individuals, particularly those with limb differences and physical disabilities.
Ayesha Zulfiqar - Chief Medical Officer of Bioniks
2024 WE Empower UN SDG Finalist, Middle East and North Africa Region
As the Chief Medical Officer of Bioniks, Dr. Ayesha Zulfiqar spearheads a social enterprise that revolutionizes healthcare through AI-powered, affordable and highly functional customizable bionic limbs. Bioniks is dedicated to enhancing mobility, physical independence and the overall quality of life for individuals with limb differences, ensuring inclusivity and accessibility.
A journey of advocacy and education
Dr. Zulfiqar has led numerous awareness campaigns focused on preventing congenital and accidental limb amputations, emphasizing prenatal care and safety protocols. Her work also includes advocating for women with limb differences, providing mentorship programs, and forming partnerships with educational institutions and corporations to enable women to thrive in academia and the workforce.
Holistic approach to rehabilitation
Bioniks stands out in its holistic approach to healthcare, offering comprehensive rehabilitation that includes counseling for patients and their families. This approach not only enhances physical mobility but also improves mental well-being and socio-economic life. Bioniks prioritizes affordability, making cutting-edge technologies accessible to all, regardless of financial constraints. Through strategic partnerships with medical facilities, civil society and government entities, Bioniks advocates for high-quality device provision and equitable accessibility on both national and international levels.
Commitment to United Nations Sustainable Development Goals
Dr. Zulfiqar’s work aligns with three crucial Sustainable Development Goals: SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being), and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities).
Bioniks has empowered over 700 individuals across Pakistan and nearby countries, enabling them to lead empowered lives. The company’s beneficiaries have gone on to run small businesses, work in various professions and perform everyday tasks with ease, significantly improving their quality of life.
Promoting gender equality and safety
At Bioniks, fostering gender equality and supporting women’s leadership roles is a priority. Bioniks also actively promotes women-owned businesses in its supply chain and engages in community initiatives to support gender equality and provide resources for survivors of gender-based violence.
Dr. Ayesha Zulfiqar’s dedication to healthcare advocacy, innovation and inclusivity is paving the way for a more compassionate and equitable world. Through Bioniks, she continues to challenge norms, foster inclusivity, and empower individuals with innovative healthcare solutions, contributing significantly to the achievement of the SDGs by 2030.
My experiences, from serving in diverse healthcare settings to witnessing the challenges faced by marginalized groups, have shaped my commitment to advocacy, inclusivity, and societal change.
By Grace Reiter, WE Empower Intern