In conversation with Grazia International’s Beauty Editor Kaniz Ali, councillor, mental health advocate and Fatima Zaman opens up about healing through service, her spiritual compass and why representation matters now more than ever.
With a career built on compassion, grit and visionary leadership, Fatima Zaman is proof that real power lies in service—and that the future belongs to those who lead with purpose.
Kaniz: Fatima, your background is steeped in service. How has that shaped who you are today?
Fatima: I come from a legacy of service—my grandfather served in the Royal British Army, and my father was a Major in the Pakistan Army. After moving from Karachi to the UK in the early ’90s, I was inspired by my close-knit family to pursue a career in social care.
With over 25 years in mental health recovery, I now lead a group of care homes known for compassionate, trauma- informed care. My work has earned recognition from King’s College London, the Women of the Future Awards, and the British Pakistani POWER 100.
As a Croydon Councilor and Ambassador for the Pakistan Alliance for Girls’ Education, I champion community empowerment and mental health, both in the UK and Pakistan. My journey is guided by values of justice, compassion, and integrity.
Kaniz: You’ve been in mental health care for over 25 years. What sparked that path?
Fatima: After graduating from Goldsmiths, I began as a volunteer. When I saw how traditional care often failed those with complex needs, my family and I converted our home into a nurturing care facility. That grew into five trauma-informed recovery homes. Our focus? Compassion, empowerment, and healing beyond medication.
Kaniz: You’ve received major accolades. Which ones mean the most?
Fatima: Being recognized by the Women of the Future Awards and named Humanitarian of the Year by the Pakistan Achievement Awards affirmed the importance of this work. But the real reward is seeing people recover and thrive. That’s the impact I care about most.
Kaniz: Why did you enter politics?
Fatima: To challenge inequality and give voice to the underserved. My own experiences navigating barriers related to gender, race, and class pushed me to step up. Politics should reflect all of us—not just the privileged few.
Kaniz: You’re also a champion for education. Tell us more.
Fatima: I work with the Pakistan Alliance for Girls’ Education and fund schools in rural areas. Education breaks cycles of poverty—particularly for girls. Every child deserves access to a safe, quality education.
Kaniz: Your faith seems central to your work. What role does it play?
Fatima: Immense. Performing Hajj in 2015 changed me—it stripped away all external identities and connected me to something greater. Ramadan deepens that connection every year through prayer, discipline, and gratitude. It’s a time to refocus on what truly matters.
Kaniz: What’s your favorite part of Ramadan? Fatima: The stillness and clarity. It’s not just about fasting—it’s about elevating your spirit, giving back, and strengthening bonds with family and community.
Kaniz: What dish do you most look forward to during Iftar?
Fatima: Always dates to break my fast, as per tradition. But also grilled meats, crispy samosas, and fresh fruit—those nostalgic, comforting flavors of home.
Kaniz: If you could disappear anywhere for peace, where would it be?
Fatima: Nature. Mountains or the ocean. That silence clears the mind. Spiritually, it’s the same feeling I get at the Haram in Makkah during Umrah—complete peace.
Kaniz: What’s your best advice for women entering politics?
Fatima: Know your purpose and stay grounded in your values. Listen to people. Be resilient, even when the system tries to wear you down. And never underestimate the power of representation.
Kaniz: If you weren’t a councillor, what would you be doing?
Fatima: Fully immersed in mental health and education reform. I’d continue my work in Pakistan with institutions like the Cowasjee Mental Institute and support underserved children. Whether through politics or philanthropy, my mission is the same: hope, dignity, and real change.
Publisher/CEO: Zahraa Saifullah
Managing Editor: Nashmia Amir Butt
Creative Director: Kaniz Ali
Photography: Javed Mohammad
Hair / Make Up / Styling: Kaniz Ali
Location: Colonel Saab, Trafalgar Square
Interview: Kaniz Ali
Editorial Associate: Sibgha Batool
