25/05/2025
From Kachi Bolan to the Civil Services: A Journey of Grit and Grace
My CSS journey began quietly in 2022, right in the thick of my academic commitments. At the time, I was pursuing my MPhil, having already earned a Bachelor in Education with distinction across my entire province—each academic milestone achieved with flying colours.
I had no formal academy, no renowned mentors from big cities—just an unshakable belief in the power of self-study and the enduring values instilled in me by my father, Engr. Noor Ahmed Shahwani. A visionary man in a society, my father stood by me when few even believed girls should study—let alone lead. His unwavering support became my foundation.
In 2023, I appeared for CSS on my own—armed with books, inner discipline, and fierce conviction. Though I didn’t qualify overall, I passed the Essay paper, the one many consider the most formidable. That small victory changed everything. It whispered, "You can do this."
After completing my education, I remained connected to learning while applying for jobs. I knew CSS couldn’t be my only pursuit in life, so I focused on professional growth as well. My career began back in 2017 when I became the first working woman in my family, joining St. Joseph’s Convent School as an O-Level trainer. Later, I served at BUITEMS University and eventually cleared several BPSC employment exams and decided to join lecturership under the Government of Balochistan. I got my first posting at Naseerabad division during my tenure, gaining firsthand insight into the challenges and resilience of the region—all while continuing to strive for academic and professional excellence.
Then came my final shot: the Special CSS Attempt and the PCS Balochistan exam 2023. I was juggling a full-time government job, yet managed to carve out every possible hour for study. Soon after, I appeared in CSS 2024—and heartbreakingly fell short by just a few marks. It was devastating. But there were no shortcuts in my story—only sacrifice, sweat, and the will to keep moving forward.
And then, after many years of relentless effort, setbacks, and resilience—I made it. During this, the only academy I joined was the online interview session offered by NOA.
I didn’t just qualify—I earned allocations in both competitive services:
Assistant Commissioner in PCS Balochistan (in my first pcs attempt) – becoming the first female AC from District Kachi Bolan &
Allocated in Postal Group (POSTALG) in CSS
The same girl who once travelled over an hour daily just to attend school, who taught during the day and studied deep into the night, who faced resistance from a society that questioned her every step—was now choosing between two prestigious services.
Writing has always been my passion and an avenue to express my emotions.I am one of the authors of a national anthology. The road wasn’t easy. It never is for those who dare to dream differently. But every tear, every failure, every long night was worth it.
If this journey has taught me one thing, it’s this:
Consistency beats privilege, pressure, and even pain.
You will fall. You will doubt yourself. You may even feel broken. But if you stay consistent—you will rise.
To every girl from Balochistan, to every student with limited resources, to every dreamer from a forgotten town:
If I can do it—so can you.
This achievement is dedicated to my beloved father, Engr. Noor Ahmed Shahwani, and my dearest mother, whose courage and prayers raised a trailblazer. It is for my soil, my people, and my roots.
I carry you in every step of my success—with pride.
May God bless us all. Ameen.
