Early Life and Education
Aliza Ayaz was born in 1999 in Dubai and raised between Karachi and Dubai before moving to London for higher education. Demonstrating academic excellence early on, she authored a research paper on Pakistan’s water crisis at 17, accepted and presented at a national climate research platform in Islamabad.
Timeline of Early Milestones
| Year | Age | Location | Achievement |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1999 | 0 | Dubai | Born |
| 2016 | 17 | Islamabad | UNDP research paper on water crisis presented |
| 2017 | 18 | London | Founded Climate Action Society at UCL |
Aliza pursued a bachelor’s degree at University College London (UCL) and later completed an MSc in Infectious Disease Epidemiology. She has contributed to research programs affiliated with institutions in the UK and the United States.
Founding Climate Action Society (CAS)
In 2017, Ayaz established the Climate Action Society at UCL with a goal of mobilizing student-led climate initiatives. CAS has become a platform for youth engagement in sustainability across the UK.
CAS Contributions
| Initiative | Description |
|---|---|
| Sustainability Symposiums | Hosted nationwide events on climate and education |
| Parliamentary Engagement | Organized roundtables at the UK Parliament |
| Youth Mobilization | Led student workshops and environmental campaigns |
| Years Active | 2017–present |
UN Recognition and Youth Leadership
In October 2020, at age 21, Aliza Ayaz was appointed the UN Youth Ambassador for Sustainable Development Goal 13—Climate Action. She is the first Pakistani to receive this global recognition.
Global Representation
| Year | Forum | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | World Urban Forum | Keynote Speaker |
| 2020 | UN SDG Youth Role | Appointed Ambassador for SDG 13 |
| 2021 | COP26 | Official UK Delegate |
Professional and Advisory Roles
Aliza has led projects on climate and sustainability with major consulting firms, focusing on government programs and public health infrastructure. Her advisory involvement spans climate innovation in housing, employment, healthcare, and the creative industries.
Key Projects
| Project Area | Contribution |
|---|---|
| Kickstart Scheme | Youth employment policy strategy |
| Green Homes Grant | Housing energy efficiency |
| Cannes Sustainability | Film industry climate roadmap |
| NHS Hospital Redesign | Climate-focused patient care pathways |
| Years Active | 2019–present |
Awards and Distinctions
Aliza Ayaz has received national and international awards recognizing her leadership in sustainability and finance. At 24, she became the youngest recipient of a leadership award at a major UK institution.
Major Honors
| Year | Award | Category |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | Outstanding Youth Sustainability Commitment | Climate Action Society |
| 2021 | Pakistan Daily 30 Under 30 | Climate Leadership |
| 2024 | Professional Leadership Award | Banking & Finance, youngest recipient |
Research, Publications, and Translation Work
Ayaz contributes to global health and environmental research with a focus on South Asian communities. She is also committed to inclusive education through translation and grassroots engagement.
Research & Outreach Summary
| Domain | Example Contribution |
|---|---|
| Epidemiology | Ethnic mental health studies in the UK |
| Climate Policy | Analysis of university decarbonization strategies |
| Translation | Urdu climate education materials for Pakistan and diaspora |
| Academic Journal | Co-author, mental well-being research (2021) |
Public Speaking and International Engagement
Aliza has delivered over 300 talks globally by age 25, representing youth perspectives at elite conferences and policy forums.
Key Speaking Engagements
| Year | Event | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | COP26 UK Delegation | Youth Representative |
| 2023 | ESG & Climate Summit | Keynote Speaker |
| 2024 | Royal College of Psychiatrists | Masterclass on Climate & Health |
| 2024 | Cannes Film Festival | Sustainability Panelist |
Youth Engagement and School Outreach
Aliza remains involved in educational initiatives across the UK, using her influence to inspire and mentor students in sustainability and leadership.
Youth Mentorship Activities
| Year | Organization/Institution | Activity |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Bishop Ullathorne Catholic School | Climate Lectures |
| 2024 | University of Leeds & Bradford Council | Mentorship & Public Panels |
| 2024 | International Women’s Day (UK-wide) | Youth Empowerment Sessions |
Contributions to Diversity and Philanthropy
As co-founder of the Ayaz Rana Foundation, Aliza supports marginalized communities in Pakistan. She also champions diversity and representation in climate and corporate sectors.
Key Initiatives
| Area | Involvement Description |
|---|---|
| Charity (Founded 2022) | Ayaz Rana Foundation for underserved Pakistani areas |
| D&I Advocacy | Campaigns for BME representation in sustainability |
| Leadership Recognition | Diversity Leader at major sustainability conference |
Events and Activities by Numbers
| Year | Event/Title | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| 2017 | CAS Founded | Institutional and national engagement |
| 2020 | UN Youth Ambassador Role | First Pakistani recipient |
| 2021 | COP26 Participation | Official speaker and UK delegate |
| 2024 | Professional Finance Award | Youngest honoree |
| – | International Conferences | 300+ events spoken at before age 25 |
Recent and Ongoing Engagements
Aliza continues to lead sustainability initiatives in the public and private sectors. She actively collaborates with youth programs, healthcare providers, and global thought leaders.
Active Roles
| Year | Initiative | Focus Area |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Economist Sustainability Week | Climate Dialogue Participation |
| 2024 | NHS CCG Sustainability Team | Health sector climate strategy |
| 2024 | University of Leeds Youth Mentoring | Academic-to-policy mentorship |
| 2024 | UK Media Appearances | Public climate education |
FAQ
Who is Aliza Ayaz?
Aliza Ayaz is a Pakistani climate activist and youth leader who was appointed UN Youth Ambassador for SDG 13.
What achievement did she make at age 17?
She presented a research paper on Pakistan’s water crisis accepted by a global development organization.
When did she establish the Climate Action Society?
In 2017, while studying in London.
What was her UN role in 2020?
She was appointed the first Pakistani UN Youth Ambassador for SDG 13.
What major award did she receive in 2024?
She received a Professional Leadership in Finance Award at a leading UK institution, becoming its youngest honoree.
How many conferences has she addressed?
Over 300 international events by age 25.
What languages does she use for climate awareness?
She has translated key climate education materials into Urdu.
What is the Ayaz Rana Foundation?
It is a charitable foundation co-founded by Aliza to support underserved communities in Pakistan.
