Pakistani Educationist Seemab Asif Honored with Landmark UN Peace Ambassador Role - Faith & Freedom News

Pakistani Educator Seemab Asif Appointed UN Peace Ambassador

Washington D.C. | August 30, 2025

United Nations Education Interfaith

In a groundbreaking recognition, Pakistani educationist and interfaith leader Seemab Asif has been appointed as the United Nations Peace Ambassador for Interfaith Harmony and Education—marking the first time both categories have been conferred together on a single individual.

This historic appointment honors Asif’s extraordinary contributions to education, religious freedom, and minority rights both in Pakistan and internationally. The prestigious ceremony took place at the Washington Times Building in Washington D.C., organized by the Universal Peace Federation (UPF) USA.

🏛️ Ceremony Highlights

Host: Mrs. Tomiko Duggan, Senior Vice President of UPF USA

Coordinator: Mrs. Yuriko Arakawa, Director of Outreach

Special Performances: Pastor Nasir John delivered a sermon, while Dale Arnie Birch performed a hymn

Cultural Honors: Traditional Sindhi Ajraks presented as tokens of respect

The ceremony brought together distinguished interfaith leaders, educational dignitaries, family members, and press representatives, all gathered to celebrate this momentous achievement for Pakistan and the global interfaith community.

Tributes from Global Leaders

Anila Ali

President of AMMWEC

“A force of nature for strengthening interfaith dialogue in Pakistan and the U.S.”

Mohammad Kashif Mirza

Director of IRF Roundtable Pakistan

“A strong voice for the voiceless”

Kimberly Holmes

Director of Chesterbrook Academy

“A leader with both head and heart”

Arthur Burkie

Editor-in-Chief of Kahanat Weekly

Praised her dedication to minority rights

Zeba Zebunnessa

AMMWEC Board Member

Honored her educational contributions

Ciara Sadaf Birch

Sister

“The shining star of our family”

💝 Touching Family Tribute

A heartfelt moment came when Asif’s three daughters—Azaniah, Azaliah, and Anaiah—recited a poem dedicated to their mother, showcasing the personal side of this global leader’s journey.

The ceremony also featured the screening of a documentary highlighting Asif’s remarkable 13-year journey of advocacy, education, and interfaith harmony work across continents.

This honor is not just for me, but for every voice that has been silenced, every minority that has been overlooked, and every student who dreams of a better future. I carry Pakistan with me as I accept this role, and I remain committed to fostering peace through education and interfaith harmony.

— Seemab Asif, UN Peace Ambassador

The ceremony concluded with prayers by Pastor Anwar Fazal and a traditional Japanese tea ceremony symbolizing peace and respect—a fitting end to a celebration of global unity and interfaith collaboration.

AMMWEC’s Recognition

AMMWEC shared their pride on Facebook: “Congratulations to Pakistani educationist, interfaith leader, and AMMWEC Executive Board Member Seemab Asif on her appointment as the United Nations Peace Ambassador for Interfaith Harmony and Education. This historic honor, awarded for the first time in both categories together, recognizes her outstanding contributions to education, religious freedom, and minority rights in Pakistan and abroad.”

This appointment marks a proud moment for Pakistan, establishing Seemab Asif as a global advocate for peace, unity, and interfaith collaboration. Her work continues to bridge communities and foster understanding across religious and cultural divides worldwide.