Founder and President.

M. Shahzaib Asmat
M. Shahzaib Asmat is a Pakistani author, researcher, education reformist, and internationally recognized youth leader whose work is reshaping conversations around education, human rights, youth empowerment, and intellectual freedom.
Recognized as Pakistan's youngest research-based book writer and among the world's youngest writers in the humanities field, Shahzaib has emerged as one of the most influential youth voices of his generation. His work combines academic research, activism, and social leadership to advocate for marginalized communities and educational transformation in Pakistan and beyond.
At the age of twelve, he founded Rise and Restore, a social impact initiative dedicated to empowering women, supporting transgender communities, promoting youth leadership, and expanding access to education in underserved regions. Despite facing criticism, societal resistance, financial limitations, and lack of resources, Shahzaib continued working relentlessly, often day and night; to build opportunities for communities that are frequently unheard and overlooked.
Through Rise and Restore, he has led educational campaigns, awareness sessions, protests, workshops, and advocacy initiatives across Pakistan focusing on gender equality, human rights, education, and social inclusion. The organization has supported women and transgender individuals through employment opportunities and educational initiatives, including support for transgender education programs in Gujranwala and the operation of a school providing free education to hundreds of children in rural communities.
Authorship and Intellectual Work
Shahzaib is the author of several research-based and philosophical works that explore themes of dissent, freedom, education, international relations, and social justice. His books include:
- Voices Without Permission — focused on women's empowerment, human rights, and freedom of expression.
- Dialectic of Dissent — examining international relations, critical thought, and political philosophy.
In addition to books, he has written research papers, articles, theses, comics, and educational content in the humanities field. His writings aim to make complex social and political issues accessible to young people and wider audiences.
Educational Reform and Vision
Driven by a belief that education is the foundation of social transformation, Shahzaib is currently leading the development of what aims to become one of the first comprehensive curricula in Pakistan focused on critical thinking and freedom studies for students from Grade 5 to Grade 10. The initiative includes textbooks, teacher guides, syllabus frameworks, and classroom implementation models aligned with both national and international educational standards.
His long-term mission is to reform education systems, encourage intellectual freedom, empower marginalized communities, and inspire young people to become leaders of meaningful social change.
International Recognition and Leadership
Shahzaib's academic and leadership work has received recognition from globally respected institutions and international platforms. He has been selected, awarded scholarships, or recognized by institutions including Stanford University, MIT, Dartmouth College, Brown University, Columbia University, Yale University, Cornell University, and University of Pennsylvania.
He has received major international scholarships and academic recognitions, including full and partial scholarships for prestigious global programs in leadership, humanities, innovation, and research.
Shahzaib also serves in multiple international youth leadership and ambassadorial roles connected with global organizations, sustainable development initiatives, and youth engagement networks. He has represented Pakistan in international conferences, educational forums, and youth leadership initiatives.
Mission
M. Shahzaib Asmat believes that young people are not future leaders alone, they are leaders of the present. His mission is to create a society built on education, equality, intellectual freedom, and dignity for all people regardless of gender, identity, or background.
Through writing, activism, educational reform, and global collaboration, he continues working to amplify unheard voices and inspire a new generation of change makers across Pakistan and the world.
Awards and Achievements
Nominations
In addition, Shahzaib holds multiple international records related to youth leadership, authorship, and social impact initiatives.
Voices of recognition.
"Rise and Restore is creating meaningful change by uplifting marginalized communities with dignity and purpose. Their work is deeply impactful."

"Shahzaib Asmat has shown remarkable dedication. His support for transgender education is giving hope and opportunity."

"The organization is shaping confident and aware young minds. This reflects true leadership and social responsibility."
"The work highlights the importance of youth-led initiatives in advancing human rights."

"Such initiatives demonstrate how youth can contribute meaningfully to sustainable development."

"Shahzaib represents the true spirit of youth leadership and inspires thousands to create change."

