Young mountaineer vows to take tourism to new heights

Documentary on Shehroze Kashif's achievements screened

KARACHI:

Shehroze Kashif, the world's youngest climber to scale 13 out of 14 highest peaks, says that he wants to assist people who want to take up climbing.

"I want to support our country's tourism and take it to new heights,' said Shehroze Kashif, born 11 March 2002, who had drawn international attention when he became the youngest climber in the world to summit K2 on July 27, 2021 at the age of 19.

Kashif expressed these views at the screening of a documentary titled 'Above the Sleeping Giant,' about his inspirational expedition, sponsored by the Bilquis and Abdul Razak Dawood (BARD) Foundation.

The documentary unfolds the extraordinary odyssey of Kashif, the world's youngest mountaineer to conquer 13 out of the world's 14 highest peaks.

The documentary is set to inspire audiences globally, sharing the triumphs and challenges of Shehroze's record-breaking achievements, with its powerful message of perseverance, courage, and the pursuit of dreams. Appreciating BARD's support to his career, he said that the platform could boost the career of an ordinary person.

He said that the sponsors who promised him stepped back but he was supported by BARD.

Abdul Razzak Dawood said, "Such events are organised to highlight the success stories of our heroes and inspire the younger generation to relentlessly pursue their dreams, overcome obstacles, and transform aspirations into tangible realities. The names associated with the foundation have always filled us with immense pride, fueling our commitment to persistently work towards providing aid and opportunities to deserving and capable individuals."

Mehreen Dawood, a member of the board of directors of BARD Foundation, expressed her pride in Shehroze's accomplishments, stating, "Shehroze has brought immense pride to the country. We are honored to be part of his journey, supporting him in his endeavors. It's a call to all the talented individuals facing challenges in achieving their goals; the Foundation actively seeks opportunities to uplift the younger generation, contributing to the bright future of the country."

Published in The Express Tribune, March 6^th, 2024.