Freedom 250 Lectures: American Entrepreneur Visits Pakistan to Promote Sports Innovation

ISLAMABAD: The U.S. Embassy in Islamabad launched its Freedom 250 lecture series to engage the Pakistani public on key priorities such as entrepreneurship, the digital economy, and critical minerals.

As part of this series, Donna Carpenter, co-founder and chair of the board of directors of the U.S. company Burton Snowboards, and Samar Khan, a Pakistani professional athlete and alumna of the U.S. Department of State espnW Global Sports Mentoring Program, connected with sports professionals, youth, and business leaders.

On January 28, at an event at the newly constructed United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan headquarters, they highlighted the role of sports entrepreneurship in youth development, innovation, and cross-cultural exchange.  They emphasized that sports foster essential life skills such as leadership, teamwork, and resilience, and create opportunities for young people to contribute to their communities to drive positive change both locally and globally.

The U.S. Embassy’s Minister Counselor for Public Diplomacy Andy Halus said, “Pakistan has a young, energetic population and untapped potential in sports and entrepreneurship.  By engaging with students, athletes, and professionals, we not only exchange ideas and explore ways sports can empower communities but also foster partnerships that make both our countries more prosperous.  These connections help create new opportunities for collaboration, innovation, and economic growth, advancing shared interests and deepening the ties between the United States and Pakistan.”

The Freedom 250 lecture series will engage the Pakistani public through lectures by distinguished alumni of U.S.-sponsored exchanges, American business leaders, and other U.S. experts.  This series offers a unique platform to showcase American expertise and build lasting partnerships as we commemorate 250 years of American independence.