ICCI, NYLP host National Youth Leadership Summit 2026

WNAM REPORT: Minister of State for Law and Justice Barrister Aqeel Malik has called upon all segments of society to play their role in empowering Pakistan’s youth, saying that the country’s future depends on developing young people who are confident, skilled, responsible and capable of leading from the front. Addressing the National Youth Leadership Summit 2026, jointly organized by the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI) and the National Youth Leadership Programme (NYLP) he said every stakeholder should support initiatives that provide young people with opportunities for leadership, professional development and meaningful participation in national affairs. He stressed that youth leadership programmes could help bridge the gap between talent and opportunity and prepare young people to take on greater responsibilities in their professional and public lives.
He urged the private sector, educational institutions, government departments and civil society to work together to provide young people with skills, mentorship, exposure and platforms for practical engagement. He said that supporting youth was not merely an investment in individuals but an investment in the stability, prosperity and competitiveness of Pakistan, adding that young Pakistanis should be encouraged to become entrepreneurs, innovators, professionals and responsible citizens who could contribute meaningfully to the country’s development.
President ICCI Sardar Tahir Mehmood noted that the future of Pakistan’s economy, businesses and institutions would be shaped by the young generation and called for creating an environment in which youth could contribute to national development today rather than being viewed only as leaders of tomorrow.
Sardar Tahir Mehmood said ICCI believed that empowering youth was not charity but an economic investment, and the business community had a particular responsibility to provide mentorship, market exposure and opportunities for young entrepreneurs and professionals.
Ambassador Dr. Shahid Amin, Chairman IHRC-RFT appreciated the efforts of NYLP and ICCI in providing young people with a platform for leadership and interaction. He highlighted the importance of connecting Pakistani youth with international opportunities and exposure, saying that broader engagement with global institutions and professional networks could help young people enhance their capabilities and contribute more effectively to the country’s economic and social development.
ICCI Senior Vice President Tahir Ayub and Vice President Irfan Chaudhry reaffirmed the Chamber’s commitment to youth development, capacity building and collaborative initiatives designed to help young people translate their potential into productive careers, businesses and leadership roles.
A comprehensive panel discussion was held during the summit, allowing more than 300 young delegates from to directly interact with experienced professionals and experts. The discussion covered leadership, entrepreneurship, career development, institutional engagement and the role of youth in national progress. The panel comprised Brigadier (Retd.) Aslam Khan, President RDF; Kashif Nazir, Director CDA; Aamna Munawar, President COPER; Iftikhar Mishwani, Editor-in-Chief Tribune Media Group; and Aftab Ahmed, Principal Cadet College Murree, who responded to questions from participants and shared their experiences and insights with the young audience.
NYLP Chairman Khawaja Shiraz Ali, who inaugurated the summit, thanked the participating organizations and partners, particularly ICCI and D-Watson Group, for their support in organizing the event.