Muaz Chaudhry

(Co-Founder and President, GRW)

Muaz Rafiq Chaudhry, MPP, MA, is the Co-founder and President of Gender Rights Watch (GRW), leading the charge in advocating for the rights of all gender minorities, both in Pakistan and globally. With a distinguished academic background and an unwavering dedication to social justice, they have emerged as a prominent leader in the fight for equality and human rights.

As the sole Obama Scholar from Pakistan in the esteemed class of 2023-2024, Muaz holds the distinction of being the youngest Obama Foundation Scholar, providing them with a unique platform for direct engagement with President Obama and the esteemed Obama Foundation. Their academic journey includes pursuing dual master's degrees in Public Policy and Social Sector Leadership and Nonprofit Management (MPP/MA) from the University of Chicago's renowned Harris School of Public Policy and Crown School of Policy, Practice, and Social Work.

Muaz's passion lies at the intersection of humanitarian law and policy, driving their mission to advocate for policies that uplift marginalized communities and contribute to positive social change. Their dedication to creating a more equitable future has led them to spearhead initiatives at GRW aimed at championing the equal rights of all gender minorities, particularly in regions lacking socio-legal recognition.

Muaz's remarkable journey includes significant achievements in academia and research. They have been involved in various research projects and publications, including research assistance on books and conferences, notably winning the Best Research Paper Award at the World Bank Conference in South Asia in 2020. Muaz has also consulted for the World Bank, advocating for the inclusion of gender minorities in education programs in Pakistan in their Country Partnership framework for Pakistan for 2022-2026.

Beyond academia, Muaz's commitment to social justice is reflected in their extensive experience working with organizations and nonprofits globally. As the Regional Coordinator for The Citizens Foundation, Pakistan's largest educational nonprofit, they addressed education and healthcare issues in schools across Punjab. Muaz has also served as a Policy Consultant for various social sector organizations internationally.

Muaz's involvement with various organizations and nonprofits extends to their role as the Co-founder and President of GRW, where they interact with President Obama and the Obama Foundation, overseeing global operations from the U.S. Under their leadership, GRW has launched campaigns addressing anti-trans propaganda, provided legal aid and rehabilitation to hate crime victims, medical and legal aid for victims, and advocated for protective legislation.