04/08/2026
When Education Becomes a Lifelong Mission: Kainat Riaz’s (AC’ 17) Story 📚✨
Growing up in Pakistan’s Swat Valley, Kainat Riaz went to school amidst Taliban threats against girls’ education. Going to class wasn't just about learning—it was an act of courage.
“Education was always important to me and my family. My parents strongly believed that both girls and boys deserved the opportunity to learn and build a better future through education.”
In 2012, Kainat’s world changed forever when she was shot alongside her friends Shazia Ramzan and Malala Yousafzai.
“Although I always valued education, I started speaking up and raising my voice more publicly after I was shot. That experience changed my life and made me realise even more deeply how important education is.”
In 2013, Kainat arrived at UWC Atlantic College through support from UWC, Gordon Brown, and Sarah Brown. Moving across the world, adapting to a new culture, and mastering English was overwhelming, but the community embraced her.
“Even though English was not my first language, they never made me feel different. They welcomed me, supported me, corrected me when I needed help and were always there for me. Their kindness helped me feel that I belonged.”
“I had never been in a place where so many people from different countries, cultures and backgrounds lived and learned together. It opened my eyes to the world in ways I had never imagined.”
Through outdoor activities and service, Kainat faced long-held fears—like learning to swim and kayak.
“Those experiences helped me overcome fears I had carried for years. They taught me that growth happens when we step outside our comfort zones.”
In an environment where learning was celebrated, her perspective on education shifted permanently.
“At Atlantic College, learning was celebrated, encouraged and supported. It reinforced my belief that every child deserves the same opportunity.”
After graduating in 2017, Kainat studied Healthcare at the University of Edinburgh. Today, she balances working in the NHS with advocating for girls’ education as Director at Beydaar Society and consulting with Theirworld.
“There is a very direct connection between where I am today and my experience at UWC Atlantic. The college gave me confidence, leadership skills and the belief that my voice mattered.”
“The UWC mission speaks about education as a force for peace and a sustainable future, and my own journey has shown me how true that can be.”
Kainat’s journey is a testament to the ripple effect of education: transforming one life to uplift countess others. 💙
“UWC Atlantic gave me the confidence to dream bigger, the courage to use my voice and the belief that education can change lives.”
