In the picturesque Kalash Valley, where women’s roles are traditionally limited to household duties such as collecting water, cooking, weaving, and caring for livestock, a young woman is quietly transforming societal norms — one goal at a time.
Syed Nisa, a young woman in her 20s from Bamburet — one of the three villages in Kalash Valley — is leading a quiet revolution. Coming from a family of six sisters and two brothers (one now deceased), she was raised by a father employed in the development sector. Like many girls in her community, she never imagined herself in sports, let alone football. That changed in 2018, when her elder sister showed her a video of a football match.
“I was shocked. I didn’t even know girls from Chitral could play sports,” Nisa recalls.
That brief clip sparked something within her — and thus began the journey of Kalash’s first female footballer. Today, Syed Nisa stands as a symbol of hope, inspiring other girls in her region to believe in their potential.
The Spark
Currently pursuing a Master’s degree at the University of Management and Technology, Nisa represents both her university and the Chitral Women’s Sports Club on the football field. Yet, her story didn’t begin with sports. Her early life, like that of many Kalash women, was confined to domestic responsibilities.
But everything changed after she discovered Karishma Ali, a trailblazer from Chitral. Inspired by her interviews and football matches, Nisa became determined to follow in her footsteps.
Her determination led to a life-changing encounter with Karishma in 2019 in Islamabad. “You can both play sports and make your community proud,” Karishma told her — words that lit a fire in Nisa’s heart.
Shortly after, Nisa joined a football training camp at the Jinnah Sports Complex and became part of the Karishma Ali Foundation (KAF), which supports young women in achieving their potential through sports. Fourteen other Kalash girls joined the initiative, and while many couldn’t continue due to social pressures, four still chase their athletic dreams — all inspired by Nisa’s fearless leadership.
The Struggles
The road, however, has been anything but easy. In a society steeped in rigid gender expectations, the idea of a girl playing football was met with resistance. “People believe girls should stick to studies and housework,” says Nisa.
Convincing her own family wasn’t easy either. They feared community backlash. But she stood her ground. “It was hard hearing the criticism, but I knew that someday, they’d see the benefits of sports,” she says.
Her elder sister became her biggest supporter, offering encouragement when others didn’t. Even her father, Wazir, eventually changed his perspective.
“I saw her determination and realized that her love for football wasn’t just about the game — it was about change,” he shares. “I now support her fully.”
The Mentor
For Nisa, Karishma Ali has been more than a mentor — she’s been a guiding light.
“When I met Nisa, I immediately saw her potential,” Karishma says. “She’s unique, and with her grit, she’s already breaking barriers.”
Through KAF, Karishma provided the training and support Nisa needed to kick off her journey. “Her story proves how sports can empower and transform lives,” she adds.
A New Identity
Football didn’t just give Nisa a sport — it gave her a voice.
“Before football, I didn’t know who I was. I couldn’t even speak about my rights,” she reflects. “Now, I’m confident and determined.”
She dreams of playing internationally and representing not just Pakistan, but also her Kalash roots. She also conducts sports sessions for girls back in her village — where she sees a shift in attitudes.
“Parents are beginning to understand how valuable sports can be,” she says.
This change is a result of her persistent efforts to lead by example.
Shaping the Future
Syed Nisa is now a role model. Many young Kalash girls reach out to her, eager to follow in her footsteps. She sees their enthusiasm as her greatest reward.
“Sports can help preserve our traditions,” she says. “If Kalash girls have opportunities in sports, they’ll remain connected to their heritage. It’s not just about becoming athletes — it’s about knowing who they are.”
To the elders of her community, she offers a heartfelt plea: “Support your daughters. Let them dream. Let them achieve.”
Looking Ahead
Nisa’s journey is still unfolding, but her vision is clear: “Even if the first step is the hardest, you must take it. That’s how change begins.”
Through her bravery and unwavering determination, Syed Nisa is not only redefining her own future — she is reshaping the possibilities for generations of Kalash girls who will come after her.
