KARACHI: The Professionals Network organised the International Environment, Health and Safety (HSE) Conference 2026 and an awards distribution ceremony at a local hotel in Karachi, bringing together HSE experts, corporate representatives, environmentalists, academics and social figures from diverse sectors.
The conference focused on raising awareness about environmental protection, healthcare, occupational and industrial safety, road safety, sustainable development and corporate social responsibility (CSR). It also provided a platform for professionals to exchange ideas and share best practices.
The event began with the recitation of the Holy Quran, followed by an address by renowned Islamic scholar Maulana Azad Jameel. The programme was hosted by Ali Haider, Member Board of Directors, School of Leadership (SoL) and Amwaj.
Founder and CEO of The Professionals Network Mehmood Tareen, along with CSR/CSI activist, analyst and consultant Atiqur Rehman, welcomed the participants. They emphasised the importance of collective efforts to promote environmental responsibility, health and safety and social development.
Prof. Dr. Jamal Raza, Executive Director of the Sindh Institute of Child Health and Neonatology, stressed that a clean environment, quality healthcare and effective safety measures were essential for building a healthy society. Saeed Allahwala, Chairman Board of ATCO Laboratories Limited, highlighted the role of businesses in promoting corporate responsibility and sustainable practices.
A special lecture was delivered by Dr. Imran Yousuf, Founder and Chairman of Transformation International and Honorary Consul of the Philippines in Karachi.
The first session was attended by Muhammad Irfan Soomro, Director General, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as chief guest. Speakers included Imran Aslam, General Manager HSE, Sindh Engro Coal Mining Company; Shireen Naqvi, Senior Associate, Cornelian; Shehbaz Islam, Group General Manager HSE/QA & QC, Sui Southern Gas Company Limited; and Dr. Faiza Yasir Jalbani, Global SHE Capability Lead Road Safety, Unilever.
Dr. Faiza Yasir Jalbani discussed the road safety agenda and its six key pillars, underscoring the need for stronger measures to reduce road-related risks.
An important panel discussion was held on Global Environmental Changes and Their Impact on the Global Economy and Human Behaviour. The panel featured Dr. Muhammad Imran Taj, Chairman, Board of Fire and Safety Law in Pakistan; Iqra Irshad, Domain Officer, Pakistan Single Window; Um-ul-Wara Naveed, Sustainability & Commercial HSE Manager, MENAP & Sub-Saharan Africa, Mondelēz International; and Usman Arshad Mian, Head of Planning & Pricing, BI, Capability & HSE Commercial, Fatima Group.
The second session featured Muhammad Rehan Hanif, President of the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), as chief guest. He appreciated the initiative and emphasised that businesses and industries should play an active role in environmental protection, health and safety, sustainability and CSR.
He also called for collective action to create a safer, healthier and more sustainable society.
The conference concluded with an awards distribution ceremony during which around 60 institutions and organisations were recognised for their outstanding contributions to environment, health and safety, corporate social responsibility, sustainable development and community welfare.
The organisers said the awards were intended to encourage institutions and organisations that are making practical and meaningful contributions to public health, safety, environmental protection and social well-being.
