Pakistan: Women's Empowerment through Sport

Pakistan Program Update

We’re excited to share continued progress from Ascend’s programs in Pakistan, even as we navigated a slower operational period at the end of the year and during Ramadan.

A major milestone this quarter was the successful training of 7 new instructor trainees, expanding our pipeline of local women leaders equipped to guide future outdoor and leadership programming. Building this cadre of trained instructors is critical to sustaining and scaling our work in remote regions.

During this period, Ascend instructors also invested in their own development by participating in an advanced ice climbing course delivered in partnership with a Spain-based nonprofit. This opportunity allowed staff to strengthen their technical mountaineering skills and bring new expertise back to the program.

Despite seasonal slowdowns, we continued delivering mental health sessions to secondary school and university students—an essential component of our model that supports resilience, confidence, and overall wellbeing.

We also expanded access to outdoor experiences by offering rock climbing opportunities to more than 150 women and girls in Gilgit and Islamabad. For many participants, this was their first time engaging in sport or outdoor activity, marking an important step toward greater confidence and freedom of movement.

In partnership with the Krishma Ali Foundation, we are delivering integrated programming that combines mental health, rock climbing, and leadership training, further extending our reach and impact.

Looking ahead, we are excited to be organizing a summer camp for girls in collaboration with renowned mountaineer Ali Sadpara. This camp will provide a transformative experience for participants, blending outdoor adventure with leadership development and mentorship.

We are grateful for your continued support in making these opportunities possible for women and girls across Pakistan.