From transforming nursing education at AKU to pioneering research that improves the lives of people with chronic diseases, Dr Ladak's impact is profound. As the Gulshan Bhatia Endowed Associate Professor and Assistant Dean of Graduate Programmes at the Aga Khan University, she has mentored countless students—empowering the next generation of healthcare leaders.
Dr Ladak's work focuses on improving the health-related quality of life for children, adolescents, and young adults living with chronic diseases such as congenital heart defects and Down Syndrome. She dives deep into understanding the role of social determinants and health literacy, uncovering the barriers families face in accessing care. Her research work does not simply highlight problems—it offers practical solutions that have the potential to reshape healthcare systems in low- and middle-income countries.
In her role as an educator, Dr Ladak has reimagined how nursing education is delivered. She introduced blended learning methods and initiated journal clubs, sparking curiosity and engagement among her students as future leaders. These innovations have not only enhanced academic rigour but also inspired a culture of inquiry at AKU's School of Nursing and Midwifery. Her mentorship has guided countless graduate and doctoral students, nurses, residents and fellows to pursue impactful research.
Dr Ladak's influence extends far beyond the classroom. She leads global health initiatives, chairing the Global Health Working Group at the International Society of Adult Congenital Heart Disease and contributing to international efforts to measure and improve health outcomes. Closer to home, she was Chairperson of the Aga Khan Health Board in Karachi, she has spearheaded programmes in health education and early screening that have touched the lives of tens of thousands.
At the heart of everything Dr Ladak does is a vision to empower patients, families, and students. She believes in building resilience and prioritizing care that is both compassionate and value driven. Recognized globally for her contributions, Dr Ladak was honoured a global award as the “Emerging Nurse Researcher and Scholar 2023" by Sigma Nursing—a testament to her enduring impact on health equity and innovation.
Her story is one of commitment and hope, driven by the belief that everyone deserves a chance at a healthier future. Through her work, Dr Ladak continues to inspire change, one life and one discovery at a time.
