The RBF Founding members

A Story of Purpose, Passion, and Global Collaboration

When the world came to a standstill in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the gaps in our education systems became painfully clear—especially for children with learning difficulties and disabilities. As schools shuttered and services paused, countless children, particularly in low-income and conflict-affected areas, were left behind. Anxiety and emotional distress among children soared globally, and the need for inclusive education solutions had never been more urgent.

It was during this global moment of reckoning that three women, each from diverse backgrounds but united by a shared vision, came together to form the Rabia Basri Foundation (RBF). What started as an initiative in Pakistan quickly transformed into a global mission to ensure inclusive education for every child, everywhere.

Collaboration at the Heart of Change

The foundation of RBF rests on a powerful belief: collaboration is essential to create sustainable, impactful change. Each of our founding members brought not only decades of experience but also lived understanding, compassion, and a refusal to accept the status quo.

By pulling together an enthusiastic and growing team of educators, specialists, parents, and volunteers from around the world, the founders of RBF are working to bring inclusive practices into schools and communities—redefining what “access” and “equity” look like for children with disabilities and learning challenges.

Let’s meet the trailblazers behind the movement.

Bushra Hasham – Champion of Early Childhood Inclusion

A Montessori teacher with over 15 years of classroom and teacher-training experience in Pakistan, Bushra Hasham has long been a passionate advocate for inclusive learning. Known for her award-winning work in creating activity-based, strategic learning environments, Bushra brings deep expertise in adapting classroom practices to meet the unique needs of academically disadvantaged children.

With her hands-on approach, Bushra has become a guiding light for teachers and students alike. Her leadership at RBF ensures that foundational, inclusive practices begin early—where they matter most.

Samrina Anwar – A Lifelong Advocate and Academic Visionary

As RBF’s Head of Academics, Samrina Anwar brings over 35 years of unmatched experience in inclusive education. From co-founding Pakistan’s first school for autism to authoring curriculum for Oxford University Press, Samrina’s work has touched thousands of lives.

Her strength as a polio and cancer survivor shines through in her unwavering commitment to advocacy. Whether she’s leading classroom instruction at Lahore Grammar School or facilitating workshops that bridge mainstream education with marginalized voices, Samrina’s work exemplifies RBF’s core belief: every child deserves to learn, thrive, and belong.

Ayesha Yaqub Vawda – Global Leader, Policy Expert, and Mother

With 28 years of experience in education policy, inclusion, and systems reform across 20+ countries, Ayesha Yaqub Vawda brings global perspective and policy expertise to the heart of RBF. Her work at the World Bank as a Program Leader for Human Development, along with her leadership in the Disability Inclusion thematic group, places her at the intersection of research, implementation, and advocacy.

As a mother of an autistic child, Ayesha’s drive is both professional and personal. She has dedicated her career to ensuring that governments, communities, and school systems embrace transformative, inclusive education that works for all children—not just a privileged few.

United by Vision, Driven by Hope

The Rabia Basri Foundation isn’t just an organization—it’s a movement led by those who understand that inclusive education is a right, not a privilege. What makes RBF unique is how its founding members—Bushra, Samrina, and Ayesha—came together across borders, disciplines, and lived experiences to imagine a world where no child is left behind.

Together, they’ve ignited a team of volunteers and experts working across the globe to introduce inclusive teaching practices, create adaptable learning tools, and support educators.

Join us on this journey as we continue to build a future where every child learns, belongs, and thrives—no matter their ability, background, or geography.

Learn more about our programs and how to get involved at https://www.rbf.education/services