In the latest episode of Upper Deck, we had the privilege of hosting a remarkable guest, Valerie Khan, a Consultant Child Protection and Justice With Children in the field of human rights and the Rule of Law. With an extensive 26-year career in the Middle East and Asia Pacific region, particularly in SAARC countries and Pakistan, Valerie has dedicated her life to advocating for the welfare and rights of women and children. Valerie’s journey began when she decided to leave her homeland of France and venture to Pakistan. Driven by a deep passion for helping the vulnerable and marginalized, she saw Pakistan as a place where her skills and expertise could make a significant impact. The decision to work in a foreign land with distinct cultural norms and challenges didn’t deter her; instead, it fueled her determination to create positive change. Throughout her tenure in Pakistan, Valerie has been relentless in her pursuit of justice and protection for children. Her specialization in evidence and human rights-based legal and policy reform has been instrumental in countering gender-based violence (GBV), violence against women and girls (VAWG), and violence against children (VAC). She has championed capacity-building initiatives, engineered impactful programs, and managed projects focused on Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL) to ensure effectiveness and sustainability. One of the most inspiring aspects of Valerie’s story is her commitment to the cause despite facing various challenges along the way. Her unwavering dedication to empowering Pakistani women and children has not only transformed countless lives but also influenced positive societal changes. As she shares her intriguing life experiences on Upper Deck, viewers will have the opportunity to delve into the stories that have shaped her journey. Her tales of overcoming cultural barriers, forging connections across diverse communities, and navigating complex situations will undoubtedly captivate the audience. In this episode, viewers will gain a profound understanding of Valerie Khan’s passion, resilience, and unwavering spirit, as she narrates her extraordinary path as a French lady who dedicated her life to helping Pakistani women and children. Her story will serve as a beacon of inspiration, motivating others to embrace their calling and make a difference in the lives of those in need.
Host : Abbas Bilgrami Guest : Valerie Khan ( Consultant Child Protection, Justice With Children, GESI )