National Disability & Development Forum (NDF) is a registered non-profit organization, Valid MOU with EAD (Economic Affairs Division), certified with Sindh Charity Commission, Certified with PCP (Pakistan Center for Philanthropy) & Tax Exempted NPO that has been working in Sindh in the fields of Disability Rights
NAWABSHAH: In a country where disability is often met with silence and stigma, Abid Lashari stands as a beacon of hope and resilience. As the President of the National Disability & Development Forum (NDF) Pakistan, Lashari has dedicated his life to transforming challenges into opportunities—not just for himself, but for thousands of persons with disabilities across Pakistan. Lashari’s journey into the disability rights movement began with a life-altering accident that resulted in the amputation of both of his hands. But instead of letting this physical loss define his life, he chose to turn adversity into action. Drawing from personal experience, he became an advocate for those who are too often pushed to the margins of society. Under his visionary leadership, NDF Pakistan has emerged as a leading organization championing inclusive development and rehabilitation services. With its headquarters in Nawabshah, the organization now runs five rehabilitation centers across Sindh in Nawabshah, Hyderabad, Larkana, and two in Karachi (Gulistan-e-Johar and Gulshan-e-Hadeed). These centers provide free physiotherapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy, psychotherapy, and pick-and-drop services to more than 500 children with intellectual and physical disabilities, many of whom come from underprivileged rural areas. Lashari’s strength lies in his deep empathy, unshakable commitment, and inclusive approach to leadership. Having personally faced social barriers, he brings authenticity and passion to his work, inspiring his team and the wider community to believe in the potential of every human being regardless of ability. Despite facing numerous obstacles ranging from societal stigma to limited financial support. Lashari has remained steadfast. He has worked tirelessly to raise awareness, build partnerships, and lobby for policy reforms that promote accessibility, dignity, and rights for persons with disabilities. His efforts have not gone unnoticed. Abid Lashari is a State Alumni of the U.S. Department of State’s exchange program, through which he has built international linkages in the field of disability rights. He regularly represents Pakistan on global platforms, including the Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction (GPDRR), where he highlights the intersection of disability, climate change, and humanitarian response. Beyond advocacy, Lashari’s legacy is rooted in action. His work in rehabilitation and inclusive services has transformed the lives of countless families. Parents who once feared for their children’s future now find hope and support through NDF’s comprehensive programs. Abid Lashari’s story is more than a personal triumph, it is a powerful reminder that disability is not inability. Through courage, commitment, and community, he continues to break barriers and build a more inclusive Pakistan, where every individual regardless of physical condition the right to live with dignity and purpose.
