On July 9, Zubeida Mustafa, former assistant editor at Dawn and a journalist with a career spanning over five decades, passed away in Karachi. She was 84. Her family confirmed the news.

Born in India in 1941, Mustafa relocated to Pakistan during her early years. She pursued both her undergraduate and master’s degrees in international relations at the University of Karachi. Her professional career began at the Pakistan Institute of International Affairs in the 1960s, where she served as a research officer.

In 1975, Mustafa joined Dawn as an assistant editor. She held the position until her retirement in 2008. During her time at the newspaper, she contributed numerous editorials and columns, with a focus on subjects such as education, public health, and gender issues.

Mustafa received international recognition in 2012 when she became the first Pakistani woman journalist to be honoured with the International Women’s Media Foundation (IWMF) Lifetime Achievement Award.

In a statement, the Karachi Press Club expressed sorrow over her passing, referring to her as a “true icon and veteran of Pakistani journalism.” The club noted that her contributions would continue to influence future journalists.

The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan also released a message of condolence, acknowledging her role in highlighting social, cultural, and linguistic rights. The HRCP described her as someone who supported those facing disadvantage and marginalisation.

Mustafa is regarded for her role in shaping the field of journalism in Pakistan, especially during a time when few women held senior editorial positions.