A success story

When it comes to making documentaries to expose topics of injustice, particularly against women, Pakistan is a good place to start. Whereas the local community rarely celebrates, commends, or even discusses the achievements of women, the international community has become a major ‘game-changer’ in many Pakistani affairs. In this regard, we welcome American actress and philanthropist Salma Hayek’s latest production, Humaira: The Game Changer, which shines the spotlight on Pakistani female education advocate Humaira Bachal, in the hopes that the achievements of other Pakistani women will also be brought forward to celebrate.

Whether it is an accomplishment in the field of education, entertainment, science or literature, women in our country deserve to be showcased. We easily remember the achievements that men have racked up in Pakistan, but we do not so easily remember the great deeds performed by our women. When we give credit to women where it is due, we are establishing healthy role models for future generations to follow. Should more women be empowered to make a difference in society through education and various careers, they would be more accomplished than men in some ways. While taking on traditional female roles, such as providing care to children, tending to the household, and serving as the backbone of a family, they would simultaneously and courageously take on the responsibility of earning the daily bread and butter.

We have seen the films created by the likes of Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy and we have read texts of injustice written firsthand by the likes of Malala Yousufzai. Now, we must recognise the women on the ground, who are making a difference where the government and society have previously failed, whether it is through providing girls with basic education, training women in a vocational career, or counseling young girls and women who would otherwise grow older with a poor sense of self-esteem. This sort of recognition is necessary to boost our own confidence, as a nation that pays homage to women’s achievements.

Published in The Express Tribune, October 26^th, 2014.

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