ALPHA
About
Naila is the Vice President of Diya Women Football Club (DWFC), Pakistan’s first women’s football club. She plays a key role in managing and promoting women’s football across the country, focusing particularly on empowering girls, youth, and women from underprivileged communities.
Educational Background & Certifications
Naila holds certifications in futsal refereeing and coaching from AMF, and additional credentials from ITBP and AI. She is also the President of Diya Academy. In recognition of her work, she received the Inspirational Leader Award from WSS in Dubai.
Early Inspiration
Her passion for sports began in childhood, but her journey in women’s football was inspired by her coach, Sadia Sheikh. Overcoming personal medical challenges, Naila reignited her sports spirit and committed herself to uplift other women.
Professional Journey
Naila began as a junior coach and manager and has risen to Vice President and recognized inspirational leader. Her main role includes managing teams, securing safety for players, and convincing families to support girls in football—a major cultural challenge.
Achievements
Under Naila's leadership, DWFC has developed 15 national players and supported many others to play at various levels. The club has helped girls gain jobs, participate in international matches, and even volunteer at events like the FIFA and Euro Cups. Uniquely, her organization also runs boys’ and men's football programs, creating inclusive spaces for all youth.
She was honored with the Inspirational Leader Award by WSS in Dubai and a Community Service Award by the Aga Khan Community Center.
Challenges Faced
Cultural barriers around girls' participation and ensuring safety have been ongoing challenges. She has tackled these through consistent community trust-building and providing safe, joyful football environments.
Seeing young girls play football freely and joyfully, forgetting their daily struggles, is Naila’s greatest reward.
Naila envisions a vibrant future for women’s football in Pakistan, filled with talent, fair selection, and more female coaches and referees. Her dream is for every girl to "wear wings like a butterfly and play football."
