Fatima Zaman: The Woman Who Does It All and Looks Effortless Doing It

“I wanted a better way of doing care. A way that restores dignity and hope.”

Meet Fatima Zaman: mental health trailblazer, Croydon Councillor, philanthropist, wife, mother and the woman proving that ambition, heart, and purpose can all thrive together. With over 25 years transforming social care, pioneering trauma-informed recovery homes, and advocating for underrepresented communities, she has become one of the most influential voices in both social care and public service.

Redefining Mental Health, One Home at a Time

Fatima’s journey began after graduating from Goldsmiths College, when she volunteered in social care. She quickly noticed something. Traditional methods often failed adults with complex needs. Her solution? Go big or go home. Literally. She turned her own family home into a nurturing, trauma-informed care facility. That one bold decision eventually grew into five recovery homes, where healing goes far beyond medication.

Her homes focus on empowerment, dignity, and holistic recovery, combining clinical support with emotional and social care. Residents are encouraged to pursue hobbies, build social connections, and regain independence. Fatima’s philosophy is simple but revolutionary. Care should restore hope and self-worth, not just manage symptoms.

Her work has earned widespread recognition. King’s College London, Women of the Future Awards, Pakistan Achievement Awards (Humanitarian of the Year, 2024), the Bharat Bhagyavidhata Mahatma Gandhi Award, and the Top 100 Influential People list in 2025. But don’t ask Fatima about the trophies. Her real joy comes from seeing people recover, thrive, and reclaim their lives.

Politics That Actually Matters

Fatima did not stop at care homes. She entered politics to challenge inequality, give a voice to the underserved, and ensure communities like hers are represented in local and national decisions.

As a Councillor for Selsdon Vale and Forestdale, an executive member of the Conservative Muslim Forum, and a steering committee member of the Conservative Friends of Pakistan, she works tirelessly to shape policy that reflects the needs of everyday people. She has been a vocal advocate for better funding for mental health services, equitable access to education, and inclusion across all levels of government.

Globally, she collaborates with the British Asian Trust, contributing expertise to mental health projects in Pakistan, particularly at the Cowasjee Mental Institute. She also funds schools in rural areas through the Pakistan Alliance for Girls’ Education, giving girls access to safe, quality education. “Education breaks cycles of poverty, particularly for girls,” she says.

Faith, Reflection, and Personal Philosophy

Faith guides Fatima’s work and daily routines. Performing Hajj in 2015 profoundly changed her perspective. Every Ramadan is an opportunity for spiritual growth, reflection, and service. “It’s not just about fasting,” she explains. “It’s about elevating your spirit, giving back, and strengthening bonds with family and community.”

Even small rituals hold meaning. Breaking the fast with dates, crispy samosas, grilled meats, and fresh fruit connects her to her roots and nurtures joy. Balance, for Fatima, is intentional. “Balancing my roles is not about perfection. It is about harmony. My family grounds me, my work challenges me, and my role as a councillor allows me to give back. Each sphere strengthens the other.”

Family First, Always

Family is more than an anchor for Fatima. It is the lens through which she views the world. Step into the Zaman home and you are greeted by laughter, spice-scented air, and the warm chaos of cooking together. Chopping, stirring, chatting, laughing. The kitchen is both a hub and a classroom for life’s lessons. “It’s messy, noisy, and chaotic at times, but that’s what makes it so much fun and memorable,” she says.

Every December, the Zamans travel to Saudi Arabia, blending reflection, renewal, and adventure. Their commitment to service is equally intentional. The family sponsors schools in Pakistan for underprivileged children, visiting classrooms to witness firsthand the difference education makes.

Marriage, too, reflects her philosophy of intentional living. Fatima emphasizes listening, mutual respect, and shared vision as the pillars of a strong partnership. “Communication isn’t just about speaking. It’s about truly hearing your partner and validating their feelings,” she says. Her relationship with her husband exemplifies partnership, friendship, and aligned purpose, showing that love and ambition can grow together.

Family also inspires her professionally. Watching her son in the RAF cadet uniform fills her with pride, and she hopes her daughter will embrace responsibility and service in her own way. The Zaman household models resilience, compassion, and service not as ideals but as daily practice.

Advice, Inspiration, and Impact

Fatima’s advice to women entering politics or leadership roles is grounded, practical, and inspiring. “Know your purpose, stay grounded in your values, and never underestimate the power of representation.” Her life demonstrates that leadership and ambition are most meaningful when paired with empathy and integrity.

From care homes to council meetings, boardrooms to classrooms, Fatima Zaman exemplifies the art of living fully. She models resilience, generosity, and intentionality in every decision she makes, reminding us that success is measured not just by personal achievements, but by the lives we uplift and the communities we serve.

From boardrooms to care homes, council chambers to classrooms, Fatima Zaman proves that you can lead with heart, live intentionally, and make a real difference in the world. She shows that purpose and joy are not mutually exclusive and that impact, whether local or global, starts with courage, compassion, and commitment.

Fatima Zaman: changing the world, one heart and one home at a time.