Najma Akhtar | Finely Crafted Journeys

Zoya honours the profound journey of a woman reconnecting with her feminine self through bespoke creations that celebrate her true essence. In our Finely Crafted Journeys column, we share insights from the lives of iconic women who have left an indelible mark on the world.

In this edition, our muse is Najma Akhtar. Akhtar was the first woman to hold the position of vice-chancellor of the Jamia Millia Islamia and was conferred with the honorary rank of 'Colonel Commandant'. Her exceptional career included serving as the first female Controller of Admissions and Examinations at AMU and the Head of International Training at NIEPA.

Tell us about your journey.

My father was the Director of Education. He encouraged and inspired my academic studies. Later, watching my husband leave the IAS to teach at Allahabad University inspired me to pursue my own MA and PhD in education and find my place in the university system.

What do you enjoy the most about your craft?

The world is changing constantly and one must change with it. I enjoy being with youngsters, it helps me keep up. India has to grow at their pace and they have to grow at India's pace. I enjoy my responsibility as an educator, guiding a generation that will take the country ahead.

How has your journey renewed your connection with yourself?

It was very unusual for women in my generation to break the glass ceiling and carve their own path. Looking back, it's satisfying to see how far I have come —from aspiring to be an educator to reaching the highest post of vice chancellor of a university and leaving behind a legacy of being an assertive yet empathetic leader for future generations, especially young women.

ZOYA and you...

For the piece I'm wearing Crown Shyness -the emerald and diamond setting is inspired by sunlight streaming through the canopy of a rainforest. It feels like a metaphor for my [own] journey of being the sunlight that nurtures and guides my students to grow to their full potential.