Kami Chouhdry
Pakistan
Kami Chouhdry

Kami Chouhdry is a dedicated development professional with over 15 years of experience in HIV/AIDS and co-infections service delivery, alongside extensive advocacy for sexual and gender minorities. A trailblazer in Pakistan and the broader Islamic world, being the first transgender woman to step into the fashion industry.

Key achievements include contributions to the Transgender Protection Bill 2017-18 and the Provincial Bill for Transgender 2020. A globally recognized activist, having represented Pakistan's transgender community in multiple international forums, including the U.S. State Department’s IVLP (2017) and conferences in Thailand, Canada, Denmark, Sweden, the Netherlands, Germany, Taiwan, Korea, and Nepal.

Currently serving as the Executive Director of Sub Rang Society, leading advocacy efforts for transgender and minority communities. Active member of CDGEW Network on Election Commission of Pakistan, and Sindh Police Gender-Based Violence Committee. Founder member of Parwaz Male Health Society and former Board & Core Working Group Member of Youth Voices Count (2012-2019).

Key Consultancy, Research & Advocacy Work:

  • 15 years of experience in HIV/AIDS and co-infections service delivery.
  • Lead Consultant for international research with Youth Voices Count Bangkok on stigma and discrimination faced by transgender people and MSMs in Pakistan.
  • Consulted with Naz Male Health Alliance and Dignity for All on SRHR issues and LGBTQ rights.
  • Consulted with Naz Male Health Alliance and Dignity for All on SRHR issues and LGBTQ rights.
  • Provided consultation to Dareecha Male Health Society on media and societal sensitization/advocacy for gender minority issues in Rawalpindi/Islamabad, Pakistan.
  • Mentored young individuals under the CGA project by Shahoor Foundation.
  • Facilitated the Sindh Transgender Education Policy 2024-25.
  • Contributed to national-level research (2023-24) on violence and harassment faced by sexual and gender-diverse groups.
  • Trained young girls on SRHR issues under the Ahung project.

An influential voice in media, featured in documentaries like Hide and Seek and the award-winning short film Rani. Led impactful social campaigns such as "Change the Clap", challenging societal norms and advocating for transgender rights in Pakistan.

She is driven by a commitment to creating safe spaces, policy reforms, and increased representation for marginalized communities.

OMLAS Experience: “The OMLAS sessions deepened my understanding of power, privilege, and oppression within legal and policy systems. Exploring feminist lawyering, intersectionality, and community-led justice affirmed my commitment to challenge structural inequalities. These themes empowered me to reimagine advocacy strategies that center lived experiences and build collective power for meaningful social transformation.”