In some places, a girl's world is expected to end at her front door. Meet Sairash, an internationally recognized karate player from Lyari, Pakistan, who refused to accept that. She grew up in a tough neighborhood, but decided early on that her story would be different. Today she is living proof that girls can be strong, and that they can protect themselves.
"Who says girls can't be strong, or that no one can make them strong?"
My name is Sairash, and I am an internationally recognized karate player. I am from Lyari, where life is difficult and every day is a struggle. I decided my story would not be like that.
A different question about safety
Back in 2014, when I was a child, conditions in Lyari were bad. People thought the only way to be safe was to stay home. But I thought, why does safety mean being afraid? Can't girls protect themselves? I started karate training, so I could become an example for other girls.
The journey to the mat
I went to training every day, often getting there with inDrive. Karate went from self-defense to a passion, and the years to black belt flew by.
From local medals to the podium for Pakistan
Then I started competing in national tournaments. After winning multiple gold and silver medals, it felt like I had achieved everything. But a new opportunity came up: at the 9th South Asian Karate Championship, I won double bronze medals for Pakistan.
Her message to other girls
My journey doesn’t end here. Sport gave me the courage to choose my life’s path. And all of this is for my community, for every girl who wants to fulfill her own dreams.
