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Aleena Nadeem, Bushra Sultan Named in Forbes’ 30 Under 30 Asia 2024

by Ayesal A
written by Ayesal A
  • In total, 7 Pakistanis made it to Forbers’ 30 under 30 Asia list, two of which include Aleena Nadeem and Bushra Sultan.
  • Aleena Nadeem founded EduFi, a Lahore-based startup with the motto “Study Now Pay Later,” which partners with 27 Pakistani colleges to provide monthly tuition payment plans for students from paycheck-to-paycheck families.
  • Bushra Sultan, a prominent Pakistani filmmaker, creative director, and production designer, is known for her bold fashion and beauty campaigns. Her notable works include “Guria,” a critique of the wedding industry’s pressures on brides, and “Chimera,” featuring headless women.

Aleena Nadeem – Founder, EduFi

Aleena Nadeem, founder of EduFi, a Lahore-based startup with the motto “Study Now Pay Later” just might be the answer to millions of Pakistani students’ prayers.

Nadeem’s concept is straightforward. She noticed that some families living paycheck-to-paycheck struggled with lump sum tuition payments at the beginning of each semester but could manage monthly payments. EduFi has partnered with 27 Pakistani colleges, a figure that has doubled in the last six months, to direct potential customers to them.

EduFi handles its credit-vetting process and pays the tuition for approved students, who then repay the loan every month while studying. Nadeem, an MIT graduate with experience interning at McKinsey and working in London for Goldman Sachs and Ventura Capital, has been passionate about educational issues since high school.

Aalia Neelum Becomes First Woman Chief Justice for Lahore High Court

After a successful pilot launch in 2021, EduFi began disbursing loans earlier this year. Investors were impressed: EduFi’s $6.1 million pre-seed round in November, led by Zayn VC, became the largest such round in Pakistani startup history.

Moreover, Aleena Nadeem spent her summers with Progressive Education Network, a nonprofit in Lahore that runs schools for underprivileged children.

“My EduFi is an extension of the work that I’ve been doing since I was a kid,” Nadeem says, “trying to bring education to the masses.” That’s a big need in Pakistan. According to a 2021 World Bank projection, only 13% of Pakistanis get a tertiary education.

 

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Bushra Sultan – Pakistani Filmmaker, Creative Director and Production Designer

“Her most prominent work is in fashion and beauty,” stated the magazine. “One campaign for Demesne Couture, titled ‘Guria,’ showcased two lavishly dressed women being manipulated like puppets by giant hands pulling strings, commenting on the country’s wedding industry and the pressures placed on brides.”

“Sultan is also renowned for her bold ‘Chimera’ campaign, which features headless women,” it added.

 

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A post shared by Bushra Sultan (@iambushrasultan)

In total, 7 Pakistanis made it to Forbers’ 30 under 30 Asia list, two of which include Nadeem and Sultan

Stay tuned to WOW360.

TW: Female Domestic Workers Are Illegally Being Sold Online!

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Culture

Pakistan’s First Female Mountaineer Samina Baig Faces Severe Health Crisis During K2 Expedition

by Sahrish Shakeel
written by Sahrish Shakeel
  • Samina Baig, leading a Pakistani-Italian female expedition team on K2, fell seriously ill during acclimatization, experiencing severe breathing problems. 
  • Despite completing all requirements, Askari Aviation could not perform a rescue due to weather conditions, leading to a three-day wait without evacuation.
  • Due to deteriorating health, the team decided to evacuate Baig using human assistance and a horse, embarking on a two-day journey to Askoli village, walking day and night. 

Samina Baig, renowned as Pakistan’s first female mountaineer, is currently facing a critical situation during a pre-expedition acclimatization process on K2.

Baig fell seriously ill, developing severe breathing problems, which necessitated an urgent evacuation while leading a pre-expedition acclimatization process. Despite completing all necessary requirements for an emergency evacuation, Askari Aviation, the sole helicopter rescue service in Pakistan, was unable to carry out the operation, citing adverse weather conditions as the reason. The team waited for three days, but no rescue attempt was made, leaving Baig’s condition to deteriorate further.

The Team is Asking for Prayers and Support During this Challenging Time

With no other option, the expedition team, along with medical representatives, decided to evacuate Baig manually. Using human assistance and a horse, the team began the arduous journey to Askoli village, a trek expected to take two days of continuous walking, day and night. The situation remains critical, and the team is asking for prayers and support during this challenging time.

Samina Baig is a pioneering figure in Pakistani mountaineering, being the only Pakistani woman to have summited Mount Everest, K2, Nanga Parbat, and the Seven Summits on seven continents. Her achievements have not only brought immense pride to Pakistan but have also inspired countless women across the globe to pursue their dreams, regardless of the challenges.

The mountaineering community and well-wishers around the world are anxiously awaiting updates on Baig’s condition and are hoping for her safe return.

Samina Baig Congratulates all Female Climbers who Summited K2 this Year. Read the full story here: 

On Friday, 27th July at 7:42 AM, Pakistani athlete Samina Baig became the first woman from the country to summit the world’s second highest mountain -K2. ‘On 22nd July 2022 at 7:42 AM, Allah Almighty gave me yet another blessed moment to bring the national flag of Pakistan to the summit of Pakistan’s tallest and world’s second highest mountain, known as savage mountain #K2 stepping atop as the first Pakistani woman!’ wrote Samina on her Facebook page while capturing the beautiful moment.

Samina Baig Congratulates all Female Climbers who Summited K2 this Year

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NewsSocial Issues

Gifts Given at Marriage or Pre-Separation Remain Wife’s Property, SHC Rules

by Sahrish Shakeel
written by Sahrish Shakeel
  • The Sindh High Court has ruled that gifts given to a wife at the time of marriage or before separation are her personal property and cannot be reclaimed by the husband, even after separation.
  • This ruling reinforces the legal protection of marital gifts, ensuring that they remain with the wife regardless of marital status, and is expected to set a precedent for similar cases, providing clear legal backing for the ownership rights of wives.
  • The court explicitly stated, “The gifts given to the wife at the time of marriage or before separation become her personal property and cannot be reclaimed,” highlighting the irrevocable nature of such gifts.

The Sindh High Court has issued a landmark ruling regarding marital gifts, firmly establishing that gifts given to a wife at the time of marriage or before separation cannot be reclaimed by the husband. This decision reaffirms the legal protection of marital gifts as the exclusive property of the wife.

The ruling came in response to a petition filed by Arshad Jameel, who sought the return of gifts he had given to his wife during their marriage. The court’s detailed verdict on the family court appeal aligns with the initial trial court’s decision, underscoring the principle that such gifts are irrevocably the wife’s property.

In its judgment, the court stated, “The gifts given to the wife at the time of marriage or before separation become her personal property and cannot be reclaimed.” This clear and unequivocal statement serves as a powerful assertion of the wife’s ownership rights over gifts received during the marriage.

The court’s ruling emphasizes that marital gifts are not subject to reclamation upon separation, thereby providing a significant legal safeguard for wives. This decision is expected to set a precedent for similar cases, offering clarity and legal support to the ownership rights.

This judgment by the Sindh High Court not only strengthens the legal framework but also reinforces the notion that such gifts are an integral part of the wife’s personal property. The ruling is a vital step in ensuring that the rights and possessions of wives are protected under the law, regardless of changes in marital status.

Over 10 Million Women Await Marriage in Pakistan. Read the full story here: 

In Pakistan, a recent United Nations report has shed light on a concerning trend: more than 10 million women aged 35 and above are currently awaiting marriage. The report highlights that ten million women above 35 years old are in this situation, signalling a significant challenge surrounding marriage in the country. Additionally, the report notes that 22 million young boys and girls are also waiting for marriage.

Over 10 Million Women Await Marriage in Pakistan

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CultureTrailblazer

Aalia Neelum Becomes First Woman Chief Justice for Lahore High Court

by Sahrish Shakeel
written by Sahrish Shakeel
  • Justice Aalia Neelum has become the first female Chief Justice of the Lahore High Court, marking a significant milestone for gender representation in Pakistan’s judiciary.
  • The Judicial Commission of Pakistan, led by Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa, unanimously approved her elevation, showcasing strong support despite the Pakistan Bar Council’s advocacy for seniority principles.
  • With a career beginning as an advocate in 1996 and elevation to the Lahore High Court in 2013, Justice Neelum’s extensive experience and credentials played a crucial role in her historic promotion.

In a landmark decision, the Judicial Commission of Pakistan (JCP) unanimously approved the elevation of Justice Aalia Neelum as the first female Chief Justice of the Lahore High Court (LHC). The decision was reached on Tuesday under the leadership of Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Qazi Faez Isa.

Justice Neelum’s nomination was considered alongside two other candidates: Acting Chief Justice Shujaat Ali Khan and Justice Ali Baqar Najafi. Her elevation marks a significant milestone for gender representation in Pakistan’s judiciary.

Simultaneously, the JCP recommended Justice Shafi Siddiqui for the role of Chief Justice of the Sindh High Court, filling the vacancy left by Justice Aqeel Ahmed Abbasi’s promotion to the Supreme Court. The chief justice position at the LHC became vacant after Justice Malik Shahzad Ahmad Khan was elevated to the Supreme Court on June 7, leading to Justice Shujaat Ali Khan’s temporary appointment as acting chief justice.

Despite being third in the seniority list of LHC judges, Justice Neelum’s credentials and experience garnered unanimous support from the JCP. 

Born on November 12, 1966, Justice Neelum earned her LLB from the University of Punjab in 1995, was enrolled as an advocate in 1996, and became an advocate of the Supreme Court in 2008. She was elevated to the Lahore High Court in 2013, marking the beginning of her distinguished judicial career.

This decision follows the precedent set by previous trailblazing women in the judiciary, such as Justice Syeda Tahira Safdar, who became the first female Chief Justice of the Balochistan High Court in 2018, and Justice Ayesha A. Malik, who became the first woman judge of the Supreme Court in 2021.

Pakistan’s First Olympic Markswoman Kishmala Talat Guns for Historic Medal. Read the full story here:

21-year-old Kishmala Talat is Pakistan’s first Olympic markswoman who aims to make history by winning an Olympic medal at pistol events. Slowing her breath and focusing on the bullseye in her pistol’s sights, Talat will compete in the 10m air pistol and 25m pistol events at the Paris Games starting on July 26 seeking to bring glory abroad and challenge societal norms back home.

Pakistan’s First Olympic Markswoman Kishmala Talat Guns for Historic Medal

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Domestic Workers
Social Issues

TW: Female Domestic Workers Are Illegally Being Sold Online!

by Ayesal A
written by Ayesal A
  • A BBC investigation revealed a growing illegal market for domestic workers on social media apps in Kuwait and Saudi Arabia, with hashtags and private messages on platforms like Instagram and Facebook facilitating these sales.
  • The investigation found widespread human rights abuses, with sellers threatening to confiscate workers’ passports, restricting their movements, and denying them time off or phone access, despite some apps taking steps to address the issue.
  • Anti-slavery advocates and organizations urge major tech companies to be held accountable and emphasize the need for stronger laws and policies to prevent modern slavery and protect vulnerable workers.

A highly disturbing BBC investigation has uncovered a growing trend of illegal sales of domestic workers through social media apps in Middle Eastern countries.

The BBC Arabic undercover team exposed an online black market for modern slavery in Kuwait and Saudi Arabia. They found hashtags and private messages on Instagram and Facebook that facilitated the sale of domestic workers for household chores such as cleaning and caretaking. Apps available on Google Play and Apple’s App Store were also found to be promoting ads for illegal labor.

Anti-slavery advocates argue that major tech companies must be held accountable.

“They are promoting an online slave market,” stated Urmila Bhoola, the UN special rapporteur on contemporary forms of slavery, according to the BBC.

On the e-commerce platform 4Sale, women were listed by race and sold for thousands of dollars.

“African worker, clean, and smiley,” read one advertisement.

 

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The BBC Arabic team interviewed 57 users of 4Sale and visited over a dozen individuals who had advertised domestic labor.

“You will find someone buying a maid for 600 KD ($2,000), and selling her for 1,000 KD ($3,300),” a policeman attempting to sell his worker told the team.

Most of the sellers admitted to human rights abuses against their workers, including threats to confiscate passports, restricting their movements, denying them time off, and forbidding phone access.

The investigation also revealed that hundreds of women were being sold on the Saudi-based e-commerce site Haraj and on Instagram.

Domestic workers are prevalent in Kuwait, where up to 90% of households employ them. These workers often migrate to Kuwait seeking to support their families back home. Under the Kafala system, which monitors migrant laborers, domestic workers cannot change jobs or leave the country without their sponsor’s permission.

Despite Kuwait enacting laws in 2015 to protect domestic workers, many loopholes remain. Employers can bypass agencies by selling sponsorships online, exploiting vulnerable women.

Globally, 45 million people are trapped in modern slavery, with women and girls making up 71% of this number. They often face high rates of physical and sexual violence, as well as mental and physical health issues. Trafficked children frequently miss out on education and become stuck in a cycle of poverty and slavery.

While some apps are taking steps to address human trafficking, hundreds of workers continue to be traded online. After the BBC contacted 4Sale about the illegal activity, the company removed its domestic worker section. Haraj did not respond to requests for comment.

“We will continue to work with law enforcement, expert organizations, and industry to prevent this behavior on our platforms,” said a Facebook spokesman. The Arabic hashtag #maidsfortransfer, used to sell workers, is now banned on Facebook.

Google and Apple also stated they are working with developers to prevent illegal activity. However, the BBC found that related listings are still active on Instagram and other apps available on Apple and Google.

The Kuwaiti government claims it is trying to stop this behavior and will investigate the apps, though no significant action has been taken against the platforms yet.

Anti-Slavery International emphasizes the need for countries to implement policies that prevent slavery and invest in research to expose modern slavery, helping to end these human rights abuses and forms of exploitation.

Girl Calls Out Scholar Who Called 95% Pakistani Women ‘Jahil’ on Live TV

How Can We Take Action?

Taking action against the illegal sale of domestic workers and modern slavery involves multiple approaches. Here are several ways individuals and organizations can contribute to combating these crimes:

1. Raise Awareness

  • Educate Yourself and Others: Learn about the issue and share information with your network to raise awareness.
  • Social Media Campaigns: Use social media platforms to spread awareness and call out instances of modern slavery and illegal sales.
  • Community Outreach: Organize or participate in community events, workshops, and seminars to educate the public.

2. Support Anti-Slavery Organizations

  • Donations: Contribute financially to organizations fighting against modern slavery.
  • Volunteering: Offer your time and skills to help anti-slavery organizations with their efforts.
  • Advocacy: Join campaigns and advocacy groups that pressure governments and companies to take action.

3. Report Suspicious Activity

  • Hotlines and Websites: Use national and international hotlines and websites to report suspicious activities related to human trafficking and modern slavery.
  • Law Enforcement: Inform local law enforcement agencies if you suspect any illegal activity.

4. Hold Companies Accountable

  • Consumer Pressure: Use your buying power to support companies that have transparent and ethical labor practices.
  • Campaigns: Participate in or initiate campaigns demanding tech companies and online platforms to enforce strict regulations against illegal sales.
  • Shareholder Actions: If you own shares in a company, use your influence to demand better practices and accountability.

5. Support Policy Changes

  • Petitions: Sign and promote petitions calling for stronger laws and better enforcement against human trafficking and modern slavery.
  • Lobbying: Engage with your representatives and urge them to support legislation aimed at combating human trafficking.
  • International Pressure: Advocate for international cooperation and pressure on countries with poor records on human trafficking.

6. Promote Ethical Employment Practices

  • Fair Hiring: Ensure that domestic workers and other employees are hired through ethical channels that respect their rights.
  • Worker Rights Education: Educate workers about their rights and provide them with resources to seek help if needed.

7. Technology and Innovation

  • Develop Tools: Support or develop technological tools that help identify and report instances of human trafficking.
  • Data Sharing: Encourage data sharing among organizations and governments to track and prevent trafficking activities.

8. Support Victims

  • Rehabilitation Programs: Support programs that provide shelter, legal aid, and rehabilitation for victims of human trafficking.
  • Legal Assistance: Provide or support legal assistance to help victims regain their freedom and secure their rights.
  • Job Training: Offer job training and employment opportunities to help victims reintegrate into society.’

These are just a few ways you can play your part and help vulnerable women.

Stay tuned to WOW360.

Pakistan’s First Human Milk Bank Becomes Controversial

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Pakistani Women
Social Issues

Girl Calls Out Scholar Who Called 95% Pakistani Women ‘Jahil’ on Live TV

by Ayesal A
written by Ayesal A
  • During a Samaa TV show “Muqalma,” scholars Sahil Adeem and Khalil Rehman Qamar claimed that 95 out of 100 women are illiterate and illogical, sparking outrage among Pakistani women.
  • A woman in the audience challenged this statement, demanding a public apology and accusing the scholars of perpetuating harmful mindsets that oppress women in male-dominant societies.
  • Instead of apologizing, Sahil Adeem used Islamic references to justify his stance, leading to a heated exchange that went viral on social media, drawing mixed reactions and calls for a reality check and apology from the scholars.

During a Samaa TV show called “Muqalma,” where Khalil Qamar and Sahil Adeem were invited as guests, a statement was aired that in a group of 100 women, 95 of those women were going to be illiterate and illogical.

However, one woman from the crowd decided to challenge this statement head-on and demanded that the guests issue a public statement to all the women in Pakistan, moreover, straight to their faces showed them a mirror claiming that it is mindsets like theirs that have caused women to suffer in our ‘male-dominant’ societies, and words like these that come from their mouth that these societies believe with blindfolds over their eyes.

As a response, instead of apologizing, Sahil responded with Islamic references to justify his point. Still, the woman insisted he was avoiding the issue and repeated her request for an apology.

Sahil then asked the woman the meaning of an Islamic term, which she did not know. He argued that not knowing this important term meant she was uninformed, or “jahil.” He explained that in Islam, it is necessary to call someone ignorant if they are unaware of important concepts.

When the woman asked for proof, Sahil recited a Quranic verse. She accused him of using Arabic to sidestep the topic, prompting Khalil Ur Rehman Qamar to intervene. He asked why she was troubled by a Quranic verse, to which she replied that she was as concerned about women’s rights as he seemed to be.

Khalil Ur Rehman Qamar, becoming visibly upset, asked for the microphone to be taken from the woman, accusing her of disrespect. The video of this debate went viral on social media, drawing mixed reactions

Furious, a lot of Pakistani men and women have called out the so-called scholar and have called for an apology and a reality check.

scholar

scholarHowever, on the other hand, a lot of users have called out supporters of the girl saying that his statement is not incorrect and that the video circulating on social media is not the full video, just a small bit of it for clickbait purposes.

What are your thoughts on this? Who do you think is right here?

Share your thoughts in the comments below.

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Pakistani Women
Social Issues

Here’s How Motorbikes Have Become Pakistani Women’s Fastest Route to Independence

by Ayesal A
written by Ayesal A

In Pakistan’s northwestern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province, women and girls face ongoing challenges to achieving equality, ranging from access to education to marital rights.

Huma Hashmat, a university student in Peshawar, sees her quest for greater independence beginning with riding her motorbike—a nontraditional activity for women that is gradually becoming more accepted.

For Huma, the motorbike is more than just a vehicle; it represents freedom and self-sufficiency. In a society where women’s mobility is often restricted, the ability to ride a motorbike provides a sense of control over one’s movements and choices.

It breaks down the barriers of dependence on male family members for transportation and allows women to explore their surroundings with newfound autonomy.

The motorbike also challenges societal norms and gender roles. By taking to the roads, women like Huma are visibly asserting their presence in public spaces, which men have traditionally dominated.

This act of riding a motorbike sends a powerful message of defiance against the stereotypes that confine women to domestic spheres.

Moreover, the motorbike is a practical tool for pursuing education and employment opportunities. For many women in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and other regions, the lack of safe and reliable transportation can be a significant barrier to accessing schools, universities, and workplaces.

By riding a motorbike, women can navigate these barriers more easily, enhancing their ability to participate in economic and social activities.

Kubra Khan Urges Pakistani Men to Learn How to Love from Korean Dramas

Emerging from the Shadows: Pakistani Women Redefining Their Roles

For Huma Hashmat and many others, riding a motorbike represents more than just a means of transportation; it symbolizes a bold step towards autonomy and empowerment.

Pakistani women are increasingly stepping out of traditional roles and embracing activities once considered unconventional, marking a significant shift in societal norms.

This shift is not only about personal freedom but also about inspiring others. As more women take up motorbiking, they create a ripple effect, encouraging their peers to challenge limitations and pursue their aspirations.

The sight of women confidently riding motorbikes can inspire younger generations to dream bigger and strive for equality in various aspects of life.

The gradual acceptance of women riding motorbikes reflects a broader movement towards gender equality in Pakistan. It highlights the resilience and determination of women who are breaking free from societal constraints and redefining their roles.

This movement is a testament to the changing dynamics in Pakistani society, where women are increasingly recognized as equal contributors to the nation’s progress.

Stay strong and tuned to WOW360.

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Social Issues

Pakistan’s First Human Milk Bank Becomes Controversial

by Sahrish Shakeel
written by Sahrish Shakeel
  • Two weeks ago, Pakistan’s first human milk bank was established in Korangi, Karachi, with the aim of supporting infants who cannot receive their mother’s milk. 
  • Shortly after the announcement, a wave of criticism emerged on social media, with many individuals arguing that the concept of a human milk bank contradicts Islamic teachings. 
  • The Sindh Health Department and UNICEF have yet to address the controversy, while proponents emphasize the milk bank’s potential to save lives and improve infant health outcomes. 

Two weeks ago, a groundbreaking announcement was made in Karachi, heralding the establishment of Pakistan’s first human milk bank at a hospital in Korangi. The initiative, which was inaugurated by Sindh Health Minister Dr. Azra Pechuho, aimed to support infants who cannot receive their mother’s milk for various reasons. In collaboration with UNICEF, the milk bank was designed to be Shariah-compliant, providing donor milk while adhering to Islamic principles.

Pakistan’s first Human Milk Bank, along with an Early Childhood Center

The initial report highlighted the importance of this facility, stating that Pakistan’s first Human Milk Bank, along with an Early Childhood Center, opened in Korangi, Karachi. The bank, which is Shariah-compliant, was inaugurated by Sindh Health Minister Dr. Azra Pechuho. The bank was intended to offer a critical lifeline to vulnerable infants, ensuring they receive essential nutrients during their crucial early months.

University of California Health and UC San Diego Launch Only Accredited Milk Bank in Southwest

However, shortly after the news broke, a wave of criticism erupted on social media. Many individuals took to various platforms to express their concerns, arguing that the concept of a human milk bank was contrary to Islamic teachings.

While supporters argue it is a crucial service for infant health, religious scholars contend it violates Sharia principles, specifically concerning milk kinship (Rada’a). Despite assurances from the authorities that the milk bank was fully compliant with Shariah law, the backlash continued to grow.

The Sindh Health Department and UNICEF have yet to respond to the controversy and the growing opposition.

Proponents of the milk bank emphasize its potential to save lives and improve infant health outcomes, urging critics to consider the facility’s benefits. They argue that the milk bank operates with stringent measures to track donor-recipient relationships, ensuring compliance with Islamic guidelines on milk kinship.

As the controversy unfolds, it highlights the complex intersection between modern healthcare initiatives and religious beliefs in Pakistan. The future of the human milk bank remains uncertain, as stakeholders from various sectors continue to navigate the delicate balance between public health needs and religious principles.

Women’s Health: Likoria Causes, Symptoms & Treatment. Read the full story here: 

Women’s health can be a sensitive topic, but it is essential. While lots of women feel shy consulting doctors, or even approaching their family about their health, we are here to help them in their time of need. One such topic we will be discussing today is Likoria (Leucorrhoea).

Women’s Health: Likoria Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

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Mount Arafat
CultureFamily

Pakistani Pilgrim Delivers Healthy Baby Boy on Mount Arafat

by Ayesal A
written by Ayesal A
  • A Pakistani pilgrim gave birth to a healthy baby boy, named Iyad, on Mount Arafat during the 37th week of her pregnancy on the Day of Arafat, with both mother and child in stable condition.
  • Dr. Amina Al Sheikh, who led the medical team, highlighted the special significance of the birth occurring during Hajj, and the mother chose to remain anonymous.
  • This birth, taking place amidst millions of pilgrims at a key Hajj site, marks the first on Mount Arafat since 2007 and added a unique blessing to the religious occasion.

A Pakistani pilgrim gave birth to a baby boy on Mount Arafat on Saturday, coinciding with the Day of Arafat.

The newborn, named Arafat in honor of the sacred location, arrived during the mother’s 37th week of pregnancy, creating a memorable moment amid the religious ceremonies.

Doctors who attended the birth reported that both the mother and her baby were in stable condition. The baby boy weighed 3.04 kg and is healthy.

Dr. Amina Al Sheikh, who led the medical team, expressed her joy, stating, “The birth of a child is always a joyous occasion, and witnessing it during Hajj is particularly special.”

The mother has chosen to remain anonymous and declined any photography. She and her baby are currently under observation for further medical checks.

This birth took place as millions of pilgrims gathered on Mount Arafat, a significant site of Hajj symbolizing forgiveness and mercy. The mother has named the newborn ‘Iyad.’

The Day of Arafat is a profound spiritual occasion in the Islamic calendar, and this year, it was further blessed by the birth of baby Arafat, adding a unique significance to his parents’ pilgrimage.

According to the medical staff present at the scene in statements reported by MBC Misr, the last birth on Mount Arafat was in 2007.

UN Women & Impact BBDO’s Child Wedding Cards Shortlisted for Glass Lions at Cannes

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Child Wedding Cards
Social Issues

UN Women & Impact BBDO’s Child Wedding Cards Shortlisted for Glass Lions at Cannes

by Ayesal A
written by Ayesal A
  • UN Women launched a campaign called Child Wedding Cards designed by children to encourage lawmakers to pass legislation raising the minimum marriage age to 18.
  • Pakistan ranks sixth globally for child marriages, with nearly 19 million child brides, and civil society groups are pushing for stricter laws and changing attitudes, despite resistance from Islamic courts and hardliners.
  • The campaign successfully prompted a response from lawmakers and led to a landmark judgment by the Federal Islamic Court, stating that setting the minimum marriage age at 18 is compatible with Islamic principles.

Pakistan ranks 6th globally for the number of girls married before the age of 18. According to UNICEF, the country is home to nearly 19 million child brides, with approximately 4.6 million married before age 15 and 18.9 million before reaching 18.

Civil society groups across Pakistan are actively working to end child marriage, advocating for stricter laws and collaborating with communities, authorities, and religious organizations to shift attitudes.

However, a DAWN report highlighted that weak legislation is a significant factor contributing to the persistence of child marriages. Many initiatives face resistance from Islamic courts and hardline supporters.

UN Women X Impact BBDO Child Wedding Cards

To encourage lawmakers to pass legislation protecting children from child marriage, UN Women launched a direct mail campaign targeting leaders.

Members of Pakistan’s National Assembly received invitations to a fictional child’s wedding, complete with wedding cards designed by children. Dozens of girls, aged 5 to 15 and from diverse socio-economic backgrounds, contributed drawings and sketches, including one girl who was a child bride herself.

Six of these designs were selected to create wedding cards representing different regions of the country. These cards were then sent directly to Members of the National Assembly and other leaders and influencers. The campaign also included a short film explaining the concept and social media posts.

The Results?

The campaign successfully reached its target audience, prompting an almost immediate response from Members of Parliament. Lawmakers made public statements holding the wedding cards and urged their colleagues to join the fight against child marriages.

Over a dozen lawmakers have since supported the cause. During a session at the National Assembly of Pakistan, leaders held the Child Wedding Cards to advocate for raising the minimum marriage age to 18.

On March 7, departing from traditions, the Federal Islamic Court issued a landmark judgment stating that setting a minimum marriage age of 18 is not contrary to Islamic principles, thus paving the way for the state to implement this change.

Win at Cannes Lions

Child Wedding Cards was honored with the Health Grand Prix for Good at the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity on Monday. Moreover, it has been shortlisted for the prestigious Glass Lions award as well.

Stay tuned to WOW360.

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