This study, conducted in 2006, aimed at discovering the key concepts and processes of empowerment within the Pakistani context. The study was conducted using a grounded theory approach. Twelve national nursing leaders from the public and the private health sectors were interviewed using semi structured interview guide. Data were analyzed using grounding theory analysis coding process and through constant comparisons within the data and literature reviews. A theoretical model of empowerment was proposed including conceptual and operational frameworks. The conceptual framework revealed “empowerment” as the core category. Empowerment was explained within six major categories. These were: status of a nurse, nursing profession, power relationships, leadership and management, and value belief system. The operational framework revealed three major categories for empowerment: challenges, adopted strategies, and outcomes. Major recommendations for empowering nursing leaders included: strengthening nursing educational system; inclusion of courses on ethics, gender, politics and empowerment; strengthening nursing regulatory and professional bodies by appointing strong, empowered nursing leaders; and educating more male nurses to improve the gender mix.             This indigenous context-based model of empowerment provides a framework for nursing leaders to develop a guiding tool to enhance empowerment of nurses in Pakistan.