‘Minahil’ highlighting Chitral girl’s sport journey premiered

Islamabad: The Canadian High Commission Pakistan and Serena Hotels premiered their docu-drama titled “Minahil” highlighting the adventure of a young girl from Chitral, who defying all societal norms plays ice-hockey and discovers empowerment through sport.

The film, directed by Wajahat Malik, is an inspirational docu-drama that revolves around the young girl named Minahil from Chitral, who aim to inspire and garner support for women and girls, advocating for their equal access to all aspects of socio-economic life.

Canadian High Commission Amanda First Secretary for Political and Public Affairs DeSadeleer highlighted the transformative power of the film’s story and expressed that viewers worldwide would be inspired by the journey of the brave girls.

Aziz Boolani, CEO Serena Hotels, South and Central Asia, expressed his support for gender equity and empowerment through diverse initiatives.

He said that collaboration between Senera Hotels and Canadian High Commission aim to uplift and empower rural communities.

Serena Hotels has consistently been championing the cause of women in sports through various sponsorships.

Among their notable initiatives was the sponsorship of Samina Baig, a renowned mountaineer, who embarked on her first solo climb of Mount Everest and other high peaks with the support of Serena Hotels.

Serena Hotels had also engaged in partnership programmes with diplomatic missions, including their collaboration with blind girls in cricket. They organised matches where professional Australian players trained young girls.

One notable aspect of partnership was support provided to girls playing ice hockey, as part of the Canadian High Commission’s signature winter sports public diplomacy initiative.

The Canadian High Commission, in collaboration with local partners, is empowering women and girls, driving socio-economic development at the community level, promoting sustainable tourism, and raising awareness about climate change and environmental conservation. These efforts align with Canada’s ‘feminist foreign policy’.

Corporate Director of Serena Hotels Sales and Marketing South and Central Asia Imran Hassan emphasised the impact of the film, and said that there was a need to showcase such stories on a global platform.