About Anila
A Champion for Civil Rights and Women’s Empowerment
Anila Ali is an outspoken civil rights advocate, educator, and philanthropist dedicated to challenging stereotypes and bigotry. As a Muslim leader and activist, she has worked tirelessly to empower female leadership, promote religious freedom, and counter violent extremism. Her lifelong commitment to justice and equality has made a lasting impact on communities both in the United States and globally
A Legacy of Public Service
Born in Karachi, Pakistan, Anila Ali was raised in a family devoted to public service. Her great-grandfather served as the Prime Minister of Kashmir, while her grandmother played a pivotal role as Secretary of the Muslim League and a scholar on women’s rights in Islam. Her father, a journalist and diplomat, founded Pakistan’s first news agency and authored several books, including a biography of the Prophet Muhammad. Her mother, a teacher and philanthropist, instilled in her a passion for education and social service.
Education and Early Activism
Ali’s educational journey took her to London in the 1980s, where she experienced firsthand the challenges of discrimination. These experiences fueled her drive to join interracial community-building initiatives and serve as a youth leader for the All Pakistan Women’s Association. A defining moment during her time in the UK was her meeting with Princess Diana, which further inspired her commitment to humanitarian efforts.
After returning to Karachi, Ali earned her Bachelor’s degree from St. Joseph’s Convent and later obtained a Master’s degree from the University of Karachi. She then moved to Saudi Arabia, where she experienced the severe restrictions on women’s rights, shaping her future advocacy work. In 1996, she relocated to Southern California and pursued a Master’s in Education from Concordia University.
A Passionate Educator and Community Leader
For over two decades, Anila Ali has served as a public school teacher in Southern California, bringing diversity and inclusion into her classrooms. She has invited influential figures, including Holocaust survivors and Barack Obama’s sister, Dr. Maya Soetoro, to engage with her students. She also co-founded the Irvine Pakistan Parents Association, which raises funds for public school arts programs through South Asian heritage events.
Advocacy for Muslim Civil Rights
Following the aftermath of 9/11, Ali became a leading voice against border profiling and discrimination. She collaborated with NYU Law School to produce the documentary Americans on Hold: Profiling, Prejudice, and National Security. Additionally, she co-authored Mommy, Am I…?, a children’s book that teaches tolerance through the story of a young girl navigating prejudice at school.
Empowering Women Through Philanthropy
Ali has been at the forefront of efforts to uplift women and girls, particularly in marginalized communities. She co-founded CalPak, a nonprofit dedicated to providing education for at-risk girls in Pakistan. CalPak supports schools in remote regions and offers an online certification program in collaboration with Cal State Fullerton University.
Through AMMWEC (American Muslim & Multifaith Women’s Empowerment Council), Anila has created groundbreaking initiatives, including an annual women’s leadership conference featuring prominent women Congressional leaders. She has also established a career internship program with the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department and a helpline for women in need.
Anila has played a pivotal role in fostering dialogue between diverse communities. As the chair of the International Leadership Foundation, she has promoted internship opportunities for Asian American youth. She currently serves on the Advisory Board of the Olive Tree Initiative at UC Irvine, a program that encourages meaningful discussions on geopolitical conflicts. In recognition of her dedication to philanthropy and service, she was honored with Cal Southern University’s Hecht Philanthropy and Service Award in 2018.
Anila Ali is a recognized expert in countering violent extremism, consulting for government agencies, international organizations, and nonprofits. Her research and advocacy work have contributed to bridging divides and fostering unity among different communities. By addressing the root causes of extremism and promoting tolerance, she has been instrumental in shaping policies and programs aimed at peace and security.
Anila Ali’s tireless work in civil rights, women’s empowerment, and interfaith collaboration has cemented her legacy as a transformative leader. Whether in the classroom, the policy arena, or grassroots initiatives, her unwavering dedication to justice and equality continues to inspire change around the world. Living in Washington D.C. with her children, Sara and Danyal, she remains committed to her mission of empowering communities, advocating for civil rights, and fostering a world of greater understanding and respect.
Tribute to Begum Khurshid Hafiz Aziz
Rich tributes and homage was paid to late Begum Khurshid Hafiz Aziz at an impressive memorial meeting held recently at Defence Library in DHA, attended by a cross section of personalities, from all walks of life and close friends and family members of late Begum Khurshid Syed Hafiz Aziz.
She was Gen. Secretary of Lucknow Chapter Ladies wing of All India Muslim League, and was elected as the only Muslim member of Hyderabad Deccan State Assembly and was close Associate of Mohtarma Fatima Jinnah and Quaid-e-Azam. She was co-founder of Pakistan’s largest girls’ College – the Sir Syed Girls College, co-founder of Hajra Abad, a colony comprising about 600 houses built for widows of martyrs of independence movement.
She was member of Pakistan delegation to International Democratic Women’s Organization conference in Finland in Russia. The memorial meeting program was conducted by Mr Khalidul Aziz, youngest son of late Begum Khurshid Syed Hafiz Aziz.–PR
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