The fight for women’s equality—at home, in politics, and across culture—is a story that has unfolded over centuries and around the world. On February 12, 1983, hundreds of women marched through Pakistan’s cultural capital, Lahore, to protest the discriminatory Law of Evidence instituted under General Zia-ul-Haq. The law, equating the testimony of two women to that of one man, was part of Zia’s Hudood Ordinances, which severely curtailed women’s rights. Led by renowned social activist and human rights lawyer Asma Jahangir, the demonstration marked a pivotal moment in a tightly controlled political climate.
February 12th is now celebrated as National Women’s Day in Pakistan, honoring the courage and resilience of those who marched. Although not an official government holiday, the day is widely regarded as a time for reflection and tribute. In the decades since the demonstration, Pakistani women have persistently pushed against social and political barriers, asserting their rights in courts, classrooms, workplaces, and public life. The legacy of trailblazers like Jahangir continues in unexpected arenas—now reaching the snow-laden slopes of Pakistan’s northern alpine ranges.
The allure of the country’s northern Himalayan ranges, nestled in a region where Pakistan meets India, China, and Afghanistan, has long drawn athletes, adventurers, and dreamers. While other pursuits are more immediately associated with this landscape, remote areas like Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa—home to high-altitude resorts such as Naltar and Malam Jabba—have fostered a determined community of winter sports enthusiasts. As women break barriers globally, and rewrite the narratives of possibility, a new generation of alpine sportswomen in Pakistan is carving out a place for themselves and representing their young country on the world stage.
For the women born into and trained in these environments—on rugged terrain, with limited resources, and in spaces historically dominated by men and military—the slopes have become a testing ground for resilience. Here, they assert their achievements, claim visibility, and continually expand the boundaries of possibility. In the lead-up to the Global Encounters Festival in Dubai—an inaugural event uniting Jubilee Arts and Jubilee Games on a single stage celebrating culture, youth leadership, sportsmanship, and creativity, SnowBrains was invited by the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) to feature pioneering Pakistani women in winter sports. This collaboration gave us rare access to women whose stories highlight the dynamism of Pakistan’s alpine community, and whose grit and passion are defining what is possible on Pakistan’s peaks.
Pakistan’s Groundbreaking Woman in Mountaineering: Samina Baig, Record-Setter and Advocate
Samina Baig captured international headlines as the first Pakistani woman to summit Mount Everest, complete the seven summits, and reach the top of K2. Baig has dedicated her life to empowering the next generation of athletes from Pakistan, using her platform to promote winter and outdoor sports, organize youth adventure camps, and advocate for gender equality. While her mountaineering feats brought her international fame, it is her tireless work in nurturing Pakistan’s ski and winter sports communities that is carving new pathways for young women throughout the country.
Can you share with us your journey into mountain climbing and how you first got involved in winter sports in Pakistan?
Samina Baig:
I was born and raised in the Shimshal Valley. Daily life in the mountains shaped my deep connection to nature. I began my mountaineering journey at a very young age. My first expedition was to a virgin peak, in 2010, which we successfully summited, becoming the first to do so. The peak was later renamed ‘Samina Baig’ in my honor.
In 2010, my love for the mountains deepened. I began climbing small peaks with no proper equipment, but my goal was always Mount Everest. In 2013, that dream became a reality. Later, I became the first Pakistani to climb the seven summits in seven continents and then the first Pakistani woman to summit K2.
My journey has always been about more than personal achievement. From the beginning, the goal has been to empower and inspire young boys and girls across Pakistan to dream big. A key part of my mission has also been to promote winter and outdoor sports in the country. Despite Pakistan’s incredible natural potential for these activities, a lack of awareness meant that very few people were involved when we started.
To address this, we began organizing outdoor adventure and ski camps for young people, emphasizing gender equality, just as our climbs have always stood for gender equality and inclusion in adventure sports. Every time we hosted a camp, we ensured equal participation of girls and boys.
Today, I see a remarkable change. More and more young Pakistanis are actively participating in winter sports. It’s incredibly rewarding to witness this shift and to know that my journey has contributed to creating new opportunities and breaking societal barriers.
Is there anyone you look up to or who inspires you in your journey as a mountaineer?
There are a few people I look up to. My brother, Mirza Ali, is a big inspiration. He introduced me to the world of climbing. I started my mountain journey with him, and together we have climbed some of the highest peaks. So yes, my brother has been a big inspiration.
What are some of the biggest challenges you have faced as a woman training at high altitudes in Pakistan?
The first and most common barrier was the mindset: ‘She’s a girl; she won’t be able to climb mountains.’ At the time, mountaineering in Pakistan was seen as a male-dominated field. In fact, people didn’t even view it as a sport, most climbed mountains purely to earn a livelihood, especially in Gilgit-Baltistan, where it’s often the only source of income to support families.
When I started, many people doubted me. But I always believed in myself. With the support of my family, and a few generous friends, I proved them wrong. What I’ve learned is that all a girl really needs is support, from her family and from society.
Another major challenge was funding. Financial support was always a struggle. When we approached people or organizations for sponsorship, they would ask why we were doing it, what we were getting out of it. Some would even question my brother, saying things like, ‘Why take your sister to the mountains? Why not send her to school or have her get married and settle down?’ They didn’t understand the purpose behind our climbs, the passion, or the broader vision.
Despite all of that, I never gave up. I stayed focused, worked hard, and kept chasing my dream. And eventually, I summited the highest peaks on all seven continents, including Mount Everest, K2, and Nanga Parbat.
The journey wasn’t easy, but it showed me that with determination, belief, and the right support, nothing is impossible, not even for a girl from a remote valley.
How does climbing in Pakistan differ from other countries, in terms of environment and culture?
Mountaineering in Pakistan is quite different from other parts of the world. For a long time, most people saw it only as a means of earning a living. Unlike elsewhere, where mountaineering is seen as a recreational or professional sport, in Pakistan, the concept was unfamiliar and lacked awareness.
Cultural and religious norms also made it more challenging, particularly for women. These societal barriers created additional hurdles that many climbers in other countries might not face.
However, with growing awareness and positive messaging, things are starting to change. More and more people in Pakistan now recognise mountaineering as a sport, participation is gradually increasing. While the journey has been difficult, it’s encouraging to see this positive shift. But we still have a long way to go.
What motivates you to keep pushing boundaries in traditionally male-dominated sport?
For me, it’s my deep passion and love for the sport that keeps me pushing boundaries. What has made a huge difference in my journey is the unwavering support of my family. Their belief in me has been a powerful source of strength.
That’s why I always urge families to support daughters and sisters in any sport or field. It’s so important to recognise the value of someone’s dream, to support it, to believe in it, and to encourage it. That kind of support can make all the difference.
Because when you have your family behind you, everything else becomes a little easier to face. You can take on the world. For me, it’s that pure love for the sport, combined with the support I’ve received, that keeps me going.
What does it mean to you to represent Pakistan?
To carry my nation’s flag to the summit of Mt, Everest and some of the highest peaks in the world is not just a personal achievement, but a moment of immense pride. Each time I raised the Pakistani flag at a summit, it was a symbol of possibility, resilience, and representation. Truly, it’s a feeling beyond words.
How do you balance training, while inspiring the next generation of female athletes in your community?
As an athlete, discipline is absolutely essential. When you’re disciplined, you’re able to manage many responsibilities effectively, and fitness naturally becomes the top priority. It’s something you commit to every single day until it becomes part of your lifestyle.
Beyond my personal training and goals, I also make it a point to give back, to dedicate time to the youth and the people in my community. Inspiring and supporting others is just as important to me as my own journey.
What are your hopes for the future of women’s winter sports in Pakistan?
I see tremendous potential in the youth of Pakistan. When I began my mountaineering journey, my brother and I established the Pakistan Youth Outreach Foundation. Through the foundation, we organized various outdoor adventure and ski camps for young people, and it was during these that I witnessed just how much untapped talent exists, especially in winter sports.
Many young girls are not only passionate but are already performing exceptionally well in this field. What they need now is strong, consistent support. I sincerely hope that both the government and private sector will come together to invest in their future, nurture their potential, and help them thrive. With the right support, these young women can achieve incredible things.
One of my greatest hopes is to one day see Pakistani girls competing in the Winter Olympics, proudly representing our country on such a prestigious platform. That would be an incredible achievement, not just for them, but for all of Pakistan. But to make that dream a reality, we need significant and sustained support from the government and relevant stakeholders.
What are some memorable moments or stories from your career?
There have been many memorable moments throughout my mountaineering career, but the true highlight has always been reaching the summit of a mountain. The sheer joy and sense of accomplishment you feel when you finally stand at the top, knowing you’ve achieved your goal after enduring countless struggles and hardships is indescribable.
Each summit holds a special place in my heart. Reaching the top of Mount Everest was an unforgettable milestone, my first major breakthrough. But perhaps the most emotional and meaningful moment was standing on the summit of Mount K2, after two failed attempts. That achievement meant everything to me.
Every summit tells a story of resilience, determination, and hope, and I will cherish these moments for the rest of my life.
How has being part of this community changed your perspective on sports and leadership?
I believe it’s one of the greatest blessings to be part of a community that has given me the freedom to think for myself and work towards the betterment of others. It has shown me that sport is not just a personal pursuit, it’s a powerful medium to connect people, inspire change, and spread positivity. Through sports, we can deliver meaningful messages and make a real impact in ways that go far beyond words.
What message would you like to share with young girls who dream of breaking barriers in sports or other fields?
Never, ever give up. Believe in yourself and work hard. Yes, there will be challenges, every single day. There will be moments when you feel like saying, ‘I can’t do this.’ But those are the exact moments when you must remind yourself, ‘I absolutely can.’
Pursue what you love with determination and passion. No matter what your dream is, with dedication and resilience, you can reach it. The key is to stay committed, believe in your journey, and most importantly, never give up.
From Wooden Skis to International Glory: Aziza Gul, Chitral’s Trailblazing Skier
Following in the tracks of Pakistan’s trailblazing women, Aziza Gul is Chitral’s first female ski athlete. From wooden skis carved by her father to the international stage at the 32nd Asian Ski Championship, she’s shown how a shared dream and steady perseverance can open new paths for young athletes across northern Pakistan.
Can you share with us your journey into skiing and how you first got involved in winter sports in Pakistan?
Aziza Gul:
I’m proud to be the first female ski athlete from Chitral, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. I had the honor of representing Pakistan at the 32nd Asian Ski Championship in China—a dream that began in the snowy valleys of my hometown with a pair of wooden skis carved by my father.
Is there anyone you look up to or who inspires you in your journey as a skier?
Skiing was close to my father’s heart and it became our shared dream. He and my brothers were my first coaches, guiding me down the slopes on homemade wooden skis. That’s where it all began—right outside our home in Chitral.
In 2017, I joined Azm-e-Alishan, an organization dedicated to empowering women through sports in Chitral. With their support, I began competing at the national level. My family and the Azm-e-Alishan team were my biggest inspirations, encouraging me to keep going even when the road was rough.
What are some of the biggest challenges you have faced as a woman skier training at high altitudes in Pakistan?
One of the toughest challenges I faced was the mindset of the community. At the time, there was very little awareness around women in sports. Many believed that sports were not meant for girls. But I knew I had to change that.
How does skiing in Pakistan differ from other countries, in terms of environment and culture?
Pakistan has incredibly talented athletes, especially in skiing, but we still lack the facilities and support that other countries offer. Even so, with the help of my father, my family, and the amazing team at Azm-e-Alishan, I kept moving forward.
Can you describe what it means to you to represent Pakistan at international competitions like the Asian Winter Olympics?
Representing Pakistan means the world to me. I started from zero—just a young girl with wooden skis and a dream. And now, Alhamdulillah, I stand on national and international platforms with pride.
Are there any memorable moments or stories from your skiing career that you would like to share?
One of my most memorable moments was my first trip to Malam Jabba in Swat for the first National Grass Ski Championship of Pakistan. I won a gold medal there—my very first—and I’ll never forget the joy and pride on my family’s faces. Their smiles, their cheers, that happiness… it meant everything to me.
What motivates you to keep pushing boundaries in traditionally male-dominated sport?
Today, I want to be a bridge for other young girls. Through our (Azm-e-Alishan) platform, we offer training in skiing, snowboarding, skating, and more—giving others the chance to rise and shine.
How has being part of this community changed your perspective on sports and leadership?
Being part of this community has transformed me. It’s made me more confident, brought new ideas into my life, and allowed me to inspire and support others.
What message would you like to share with young girls who dream of breaking barriers in sports or other fields?
My message to youth, especially young girls: Chase your dreams. Empower yourself through sports. Be bold. You already have the strength within you—now go show the world!
Pakistan’s First Woman of Alpine: Amina Wali, National Champion
Pakistan’s first female alpine ski champion, Amina Wali is the daughter of renowned ski instructor and mountaineer Col. Raja Amjad Wali, She learned to ski in the remote village of Rattu in Astore District, Gilgit-Baltistan and made her competitive debut in 2004 at the Saadia Khan National Ski Cup. A year later, she claimed her first gold in giant slalom and bronze in slalom at the National Ski Championship held in Malam Jabba. Between 2005 and 2015, she maintained a winning streak in national competitions. Internationally, Amina represented Pakistan at the 2011 South Asian Winter Games in India, earning silver medals in both slalom and giant slalom. In 2013, she competed in FIS races in Erzurum, Turkey, placing 16th in slalom—just shy of qualifying for the Sochi Winter Olympics. Off the slopes, she is a mother of three, a goodwill ambassador for Plan International, and works with UNICEF as an environmentalist and inclusion expert. In recognition of her achievements, Wali was awarded the Presidential Pride of Performance in 2023.
Pakistan’s First Woman of Snowboard: Samar Khan, Boundary Breaker
A fearless, boundary-pushing adventure athlete from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Samar Khan is the first Pakistani woman to snowboard competitively. Before snowboarding gained traction in her country, Khan was already making international waves in cycling. She has biked across the Karakoram’s massive non-polar glacier system, summited Kilimanjaro by bike, and trained with Burton through ESPNW’s Global Sports Mentoring Program. She later founded Samar Camp, a grassroots initiative offering mountain biking, backpacking, and snowboarding camps for women and girls. Samar claimed a silver medal at the Sadia Khan Championship (2022), took gold in Red Bull’s Homerun Snowboard category (2021), and made a first descent on a virgin peak in Gilgit-Baltistan—now named Ghar-e-Samar in her honour. Khan is also a scholar, with a master’s degree in applied physics.
Podium Finish through Perseverance: Raveena Qurban, Cross Country Silver Medalist
At the World Winter Games in Turin in March 2025, 15-year-old Special Olympics Pakistan delegate Raveena Qurban from Gilgit Baltistan took home the silver medal in the women’s 50-meter cross country event. Qurban’s outstanding achievement proves that determination and passion can break barriers, and is an inspiration to all. She is quoted as saying that skiing has given her the confidence to speak in front of people clearly, and express what she truly wants to say and do.
What Baig, Gul, Wali, Khan, and Qurban have achieved in a society that traditionally held women back from opportunities, is remarkable. Their stories are a snapshot of what that landscape looks like for women in Pakistan today. From summiting the world’s highest peaks and winning national ski championships to pioneering snowboarding and claiming international cross-country medals, these athletes are turning dreams into milestones. With sustained support and growing recognition, an Olympic podium is within reach.
In the shadow of the world’s loftiest mountains, a quiet revolution is gaining speed. Where once only the crunch of military boots echoed, now the sharp turns of skis and snowboards carve new narratives into world-class terrain. These women are not just athletes, they are cultural transformers. While the frontlines of activism have shifted since that historical February 12th march in Lahore, the core struggles remain: recognition, autonomy, and the freedom to take one’s passions as far–and as high–as humanly possible.
