From Karachi to the City of Canning, Jawaria’s journey has been one of bold firsts, deep compassion, and resolute commitment to community.
Now, the WA Women’s Hall of Fame has recognised her tireless efforts and remarkable leadership, naming her one of the 2025 Inductees, celebrated as part of the Hall of Fame’s 15th Anniversary Photographic Exhibition.
Born in Pakistan, Jawaria has consistently stepped into spaces where few women of similar cultural background had ventured before and she’s done so with courage, clarity, and purpose.
“My strong desire to achieve personal goals and make a meaningful impact inspired me to venture into new territories,” she said.
“My commitment to creating positive change, in my own life and the lives of others, has always been a powerful motivator.”
While her journey didn’t hinge on a single defining moment, she stated it was the accumulation of lived experiences that ignited her passion for change.
“Facing and overcoming significant obstacles during my own settlement in Australia sparked something in me. I wanted to create a better experience for others walking the same path.”
Determined to prove that background should never be a barrier, she founded Tech Aware, a community-driven organisation providing cyber safety and tech literacy programs tailored to the needs of diverse demographics.
Her work doesn’t just teach digital skills, it builds confidence, especially among groups often left behind in our increasingly tech-driven world.
Jawaria’s journey hasn’t come without challenges. “It was difficult to establish a support network in a new country. That meant building new friendships, finding mentors, and connecting with community groups,” she said.
“And raising small children while trying to network is tough, especially when many events happen after-hours or in spaces like bars, which I avoid for religious reasons.”
Despite these hurdles, she credits her cultural and linguistic background for shaping her resilience and purpose. Jawaria said, “My background gave me strong intercultural competence. But personal challenges like homesickness, self-doubt, and the pressure to succeed pushed me to develop determination and grit.”
When asked how it felt to be inducted into the Hall of Fame, her reaction was raw and honest.
“It was totally unexpected. My imposter syndrome kicked in, like I haven’t done as much as others. But when I reflect, I see how far I’ve come in the short time I’ve been here in Australia.”
For the communities she represents, particularly culturally and linguistically diverse (CaLD) groups, her recognition sends a strong message.
“It shows this magnificent honour is possible for them too.”
Seeing her portrait on display at the exhibition was, in her words, “absolutely surreal,” she added.
“I never expected to be among people whose achievements are on display to inspire others.”
Her leadership extends well beyond the tech space.
As a committee member for multiple community organisations, Jawaria is helping guide wellbeing and inclusion strategies across WA.
“I take inspiration from my life experiences,” she said. “These are the areas I struggled with, and now I want to make it easier for others coming after me.”
Even when juggling technical expertise with her advocacy work, she sees no divide. “To me, they’re all intertwined. Technical workforces are made up of people. Improving their experience improves outcomes across the board, which is why I advocate for better employment and career opportunities in tech.”
When asked what she would say to women, especially migrants, who feel they don’t belong in leadership spaces, she said.
“That voice in your head? We all have it. But I always think, if I don’t get up and lead, another woman will suffer the same way I did. That fires me up every day.”
Looking back, she said she is most proud of becoming the person she is today, shaped by every experience, good or bad.
The speed at which her work gained momentum surprised her, especially considering how hard it felt in the beginning. “Once I learned to navigate the system, things picked up and the results have been amazing.”
If she could speak to her younger self, she’d say: “Never let anyone tell you that you can’t do it.”
Jawaria is already looking ahead to new projects focused on cyber education and awareness.
“I want to make the internet a safe place for our children to learn and play.”
In recognition of her exceptional service, Jawaria has already been honoured with the 2023 Community Citizen of the Year Award, and the 2024 WiTWA Tech [+] Award, further cementing her as a role model for young women in STEM and community leadership.
This year, her inspiring portrait joined those of fellow changemakers at the 2025 WA Women’s Hall of Fame Touring Photographic Exhibition, on display at One The Esplanade, Elizabeth Quay from 7–21 March (weekdays only).
Captured by renowned photographers Karen Wheatland, Vero Photography, and Goolarri Media, the exhibition is a stunning visual celebration of women who are reshaping Western Australia with grit, grace, and vision.
Meanwhile, a Retrospective Roll of Honour Exhibition is also showing at the State Library of Western Australia, honouring women no longer with us whose legacies continue to shape the state. The exhibitions are totally free for the public.
Fiona Reid, Chairperson of the WA Women’s Hall of Fame, said, “In marking the significant milestone of our 15th year Anniversary, I find myself reflecting on the incredible diversity of the 300+ inspiring Western Australian women who have been acknowledged and celebrated by induction to the WA Women’s Hall of Fame.”
“They are women who do not seek applause or accolades, but who go about their daily lives, improving the lives of others, sharing knowledge, giving support, and standing as role models for future generations.”
For more information on the exhibitions and full list of events, visit wawomenshof.com.au.
