What is APF Rising Stars?
The APF Rising Stars program honors women in the Pakistani American community who are changing the world in the spirit of APF’s mission to build bridges, open minds & empower communities.
As we honor our latest Rising Stars, we are also strengthening the APF Rising Stars Alumni Network, bringing together the 2023 and 2024 honorees to foster mentorship, collaboration, and lifelong connections. By building this network, we aim to create a lasting community of trailblazers who uplift and inspire future generations.
Rising Stars 2025 Nominations Are Now Closed.
The APF Rising Stars 2025 celebrates Women in Public Health—trailblazers who are shaping healthier futures for communities at home and abroad. This year’s theme highlights Pakistani American women whose dedication, innovation, and leadership in public health are transforming lives, advancing equity, and addressing today’s most pressing health challenges. By honoring their impact, we aim to inspire future generations and elevate the visibility of Pakistani Americans making a difference in the global health landscape.
Selection Criteria:
Age Range: 18–40
Eligibility: U.S based Pakistani American women making an impact in the field of public health
Achievements: Demonstrated excellence, leadership, and innovation in their work
Impact: Contributions that create meaningful change at community, national, or global levels
Deadline to apply: October 15, 2025 11:59 pm EST
2024 Theme
The theme for our 2024 APF Rising Stars was “Women Empowering Women.”
In recognizing the professional and personal commitments and exemplary leadership of women in the Pakistani American community, we aim to celebrate the many ways they rise to the occasion to empower other women and give back to their communities.
Dr. Syra Madad
The APF Rising Stars Program Lead is Dr. Syra Madad, DHSC, MSc, MCP, CHEP. Dr. Madad, an internationally renowned epidemiologist, is the Chief Biopreparedness Officer of NYC Health + Hospitals. She has led responses to major outbreaks such as Ebola, Zika, and COVID-19. A fellow at Harvard's Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs, she created the Women in STEM and Diversity in STEM series, championing the role of women and underrepresented groups in scientific fields. She advises on numerous national and international boards and forums, including the U.S. National Science Advisory Board for Biosecurity, the National Academies' Forum on Microbial Threats, and at the World Health Organization. Featured in Netflix's "Pandemic: How to Prevent an Outbreak," she is also an executive producer on short films addressing public health issues and highlighting the Asian American community. Dr. Madad is passionate about women empowerment and is dedicated to creating opportunities for women to achieve leadership and success in all fields.
"Winning the American Pakistan Foundation's Rising Stars Women Who Soar award in 2023 was a significant honor, acknowledging my career as a public servant leader dedicated to improving government services. More importantly, it highlights APF's commitment to recognizing women who make meaningful contributions to both the Pakistani community and broader American society.
As APF Rising Stars, we're cultivating a community to recognize, empower, and inspire other Pakistani American women to drive the change we all seek. As a first-generation American who had to navigate my early career without mentors, I understand the critical need for role models and strive to be one for those who follow. I encourage you to nominate other dynamic women, including yourself, as this recognition can further inspire and amplify their impactful work."
Amber Chaudhry
APF Rising Star 2023
Amber Chaudhry