Biography:
Nisha Rao is a Pakistani transgender lawyer, advocate, and activist. Born in a middle-class family in Lahore, in the Punjab region, Rao grew up alongside seven siblings. During her early years, she attended a private English medium school in Lahore. It was at the age of 14 that Nisha realized she was different from her peers. While she was never beaten by her parents for her feminine habits, she made the courageous decision to leave her house after completing her matriculation.
Seeking a fresh start, Rao moved to Karachi and found solace within the transgender community in the Hijrat colony. However, financial difficulties became an obstacle, leading her to beg on the streets to fund her daily expenses. During this time, Rao managed to convey to her family that she was financially independent and attending school in Karachi, all the while juggling her law classes in the evenings. Her dedication and resilience pushed her forward as she persevered through this challenging period.
Determined to pursue higher education, Nisha Rao became one of the few transgender individuals in Pakistan who chose to pursue a college degree. After completing her general studies, she enrolled in a BA program at Karachi University, specializing in International Relations. It was during this time that she developed a close friendship with an advocate named Mudassir Iqbal, who provided unwavering support and encouragement in her pursuit of higher education. Inspired by her aspirations, Rao then decided to study law and was admitted to Sindh Muslim Law College in 2015.
Throughout her studies, Rao received invaluable guidance and coaching in International Law from the college’s former principal, Mustafa Ali Mahesar. With their support, she successfully graduated in 2018, becoming the first transgender law graduate in Pakistan.
Following her graduation, Nisha Rao embarked on her law career by actively participating in various advocacy events. She also became involved with several non-governmental organizations (NGOs) as a volunteer and legal adviser. Notably, Rao joined the Gender Interactive Alliance (GIA), an organization dedicated to championing the rights of the transgender community.
Driven by her passion for justice and equality, Rao’s legal work has involved handling more than 50 cases related to the transgender community. Her experiences and expertise have made her a dedicated and fierce advocate for the rights of marginalized communities.
Looking toward the future, Nisha Rao has ambitious plans to continue her advocacy work. She aims to establish her own NGO to further support the transgender community. One of her goals is to establish a helpline where transgender individuals can seek guidance from fellow community members. Additionally, Rao aspires to build a transgender old age home, providing a safe and supportive environment for elderly members of the transgender community.
Nisha Rao’s unwavering determination and commitment to fighting for the rights of the transgender community continue to inspire and create change in Pakistani society. Through her activism and legal work, she is shaping a brighter and more inclusive future for all.