Poem

“When injustice becomes common, the world fades from sight. And when natural disasters such as floods strike, the injustice faced by persons with disabilities deepens even further. In times of crisis, they are the first to be forgotten — left without access to safe shelter, medical support, or rescue. While others may escape or rebuild, persons with disabilities often remain trapped behind invisible barriers, facing a double burden: the force of nature and the neglect of society. True justice is not only about rebuilding homes and roads after floods, but about rebuilding humanity itself — ensuring that disabled people are not left behind when the waters rise.”

The Human Cost of Climate

It is often said, ‘To err is human.’ But is it really? When will we understand that the forces of nature will not tolerate the recklessness of humans? For the past 78 years, what have we done? We have transformed a once-beautiful valley into a landscape of vulnerability, ignoring the delicate balance that sustains life. The floods, the landslides, the devastation — all are reminders that nature’s patience is not endless, and our negligence comes at a cost that affects everyone, especially the most vulnerable among us.

Successful Completion of Humanitarian Outreach in Gojal

We are pleased to announce the successful completion of our third humanitarian outreach program, which took place on April 15, 2025, in the remote and high-altitude valleys of Gojal, Gilgit-Baltistan. This initiative focused on providing wheelchairs to persons with disabilities and sewing machines to economically disadvantaged and widowed women—enabling access to mobility and sustainable livelihoods in one of the northernmost and most underserved parts of the region.

This marks a significant step forward for Gojal, representing one of the first comprehensive aid distributions of its kind in the area. By promoting self-reliance and restoring dignity, our mission is to uplift individuals often left behind in broader development efforts.

Regional Assessment: Accessibility and Road Infrastructure
Despite Gojal’s breathtaking scenery and rich cultural heritage, the region continues to face substantial challenges in terms of accessibility. Many roads remain unpaved and are frequently blocked due to landslides or severe weather, particularly in the upper valleys. Reaching communities such as Passu, Hussaini, and Shimshal required extensive coordination and the dedication of local volunteers. These logistical hurdles further underscore the urgent need for long-term investment in infrastructure and regional connectivity.

Building Momentum Across Gilgit-Baltistan
This outreach in Gojal followed two earlier programs:

April 10, 2025 – Gahkuch, Punial, and Ishkoman: where we provided similar assistance to vulnerable groups.

April 12, 2025 – Yasin, Gupis, and Phandar: extending the same support in equally remote and infrastructure-poor areas.

Together, these three back-to-back initiatives represent a growing movement to promote social inclusion, address systemic inequities, and bring dignity and opportunity to those in hard-to-reach regions.

Appreciation for Our Partners and Supporters
We express our heartfelt gratitude to our donors, volunteers, and community partners. Your trust, generosity, and unwavering support are the foundation of these impactful efforts. Without you, none of this would be possible.

As we move forward, we remain steadfast in our mission to bring equity, accessibility, and hope to every corner of Gilgit-Baltistan. Plans are already underway for future initiatives to build on this momentum and reach even more communities in need.

We are pleased to announce the successful completion of our second humanitarian outreach program, which took place on April 12, 2025, in the remote and underserved regions of Yasin, Gupis, and Phandar in Gilgit-Baltistan. This initiative focused on providing wheelchairs to persons with disabilities and sewing machines to economically disadvantaged and widowed women, thereby enabling access to mobility and sustainable livelihoods.

This program marks a historic first for these areas, representing a significant step forward in the effort to support some of the most vulnerable members of society. By facilitating self-reliance and restoring dignity, we aim to uplift individuals who are often left behind in broader development efforts.

Regional Assessment: Accessibility and Road Infrastructure

Despite the breathtaking natural beauty of Yasin, Gupis, and Phandar, the region continues to face significant logistical challenges due to poor road infrastructure and limited accessibility. Many of the roads remain unpaved, narrow, and prone to seasonal blockages caused by landslides and harsh weather conditions. These infrastructural barriers not only isolate communities but also hinder the timely delivery of aid and essential services. Reaching beneficiaries in these areas required careful coordination, time, and the resilience of our volunteers—underscoring the need for long-term investment in regional connectivity and transportation networks.

A Continuation of Impactful Outreach

The success of this initiative follows our earlier program conducted on April 10, 2025, in Gahkuch, Punial, and Ishkoman, where similar distributions were made. These back-to-back programs are part of a broader strategy to expand social inclusion, address systemic inequities, and provide targeted assistance in hard-to-reach areas.

Appreciation for Our Partners and Supporters

We extend our heartfelt thanks to our donors, volunteers, and community partners whose generosity and dedication made these initiatives possible. Their unwavering support continues to be the foundation upon which such impactful programs are built.

As we move forward, we remain steadfast in our mission to promote equity, accessibility, and opportunity for all. Further initiatives are currently being planned to continue this momentum and reach additional communities in need.

We are proud to announce that we have successfully distributed around 100 sewing machines and wheelchairs to needy women, widows, and persons with disabilities in Ghizer. This initiative aims to empower marginalised communities and provide them with the tools and resources they need to lead independent and fulfilling lives. Our mission is to create a positive impact in the lives of those who need it most. We believe that every individual deserves the opportunity to thrive and contribute to their community. Through our initiatives, we strive to promote inclusivity, equality, and social justice. Your support and contributions can help us reach more people and create a lasting impact. Together, we can build a brighter future for our community.

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This Ramadan, Goodwill Movement has been working on plans towards a sustainable future for all. The upcoming articles would reflect that. However, just a thought—what can we as individuals learn about people with disabilities?

Breaking Barriers: Creating an Inclusive Society for People with Disabilities

In today’s world, inclusivity is more than just a buzzword—it is a necessity. As we strive to build a society where everyone has equal opportunities, it is essential to recognize and address the challenges faced by people with disabilities. The Gilgit Baltistan Goodwill Movement is committed to fostering awareness, support, and action to ensure that individuals with disabilities are empowered to live with dignity and independence.

Understanding Disability: A Diverse Experience

Disability is not a singular experience; it encompasses a wide range of conditions, including physical, sensory, intellectual, and mental health disabilities. Every individual’s experience is unique, and recognizing this diversity is the first step toward creating an inclusive society.

Moving Beyond Stereotypes: Focus on Abilities

One of the biggest misconceptions about disability is that it defines a person’s entire identity. In reality, people with disabilities have talents, ambitions, and contributions to make, just like everyone else. Instead of focusing on what they cannot do, we should celebrate their achievements and strengths.

Addressing Societal Barriers

More often than not, it is not the disability itself that limits individuals but the societal barriers that prevent full participation. Lack of accessible infrastructure, limited educational opportunities, and workplace discrimination create unnecessary obstacles. Removing these barriers through better policies, adaptive technologies, and public awareness can make a significant difference.

The Power of Language: Respect and Dignity

Words matter. Using respectful language—such as “person with a disability” rather than “disabled person” (unless preferred by the individual)—helps reinforce dignity and respect. Listening to people with disabilities and learning how they prefer to be identified ensures inclusivity in communication.

Inclusion Benefits Everyone

An inclusive society is beneficial for all. When we design workplaces, schools, and public spaces with accessibility in mind, we create a world that accommodates diverse needs. Accessibility is not just about compliance; it is about making sure that everyone has the opportunity to contribute meaningfully.

Taking Action: How You Can Help

• Advocate for Accessibility: Support policies and initiatives that promote physical and digital accessibility.
• Educate Yourself and Others: Awareness is key. Engage with stories and experiences shared by people with disabilities.
• Support Inclusive Workplaces: Encourage businesses and organizations to hire and accommodate employees with disabilities.
• Promote Community Engagement: Ensure that social and cultural events are designed to include everyone.

The Role of the Gilgit Baltistan Goodwill Movement

The Gilgit Baltistan Goodwill Movement is committed to supporting individuals with disabilities by advocating for inclusive policies, providing resources, and raising awareness. Together, we can break down barriers and create a world where every person, regardless of ability, can thrive.

Join us in our mission to promote dignity, respect, and inclusivity for all!

A Chance to Thrive, Not Just Survive

In many parts of the Global South, persons with disabilities (PWDs) face daily struggles—not because of their abilities, but because of the lack of opportunities. Yet, when given the right support, they prove time and again that they are innovators, entrepreneurs, and leaders.

This Ramadan, GB Goodwill Movement is committed to breaking these barriers by providing vocational training and employment support to PWDs. Your donation can change a life—giving someone the skills, confidence, and dignity to stand on their own.

Proven Impact: Why Training Matters

• Employment & Economic Independence: In Bangladesh, 60% of PWDs who received vocational training found jobs, with 74% reporting improved livelihoods for their families. In India, the Sarthak Educational Trust has placed 23,450+ disabled individuals into stable careers.
• Better Quality of Life: A study in South Asia found that 92% of trained PWDs experienced greater social acceptance, leading to more confidence and opportunities.
• Shifting Mindsets: Initiatives like Vicky Roy’s “Everyone is Good at Something” challenge stereotypes, proving that PWDs are capable, talented, and ready to contribute to society.

Our Goal: $7,000 to Change Lives

This Ramadan, your Zakat, Sadaqah, or general donation can help us reach our target of $7,000, which will:
✅ Fund vocational training programs for disabled individuals
✅ Provide assistive tools to help them work and thrive
✅ Support job placement and entrepreneurship opportunities

Every $10, $50, or $100 brings someone closer to a future of dignity and independence.

📢 Donate today and join this movement for change. Together, we can create a world where everyone has the chance to succeed.

🔗 [Ramadan 2025]

In his address to the Ismaili Jamat on Monday, His Highness the Aga Khan, Rahim Al Hussaini, underscored the significance of community development as a pillar of both individual well-being and global progress. He emphasized that sustainable development must be inclusive, ensuring that every individual, regardless of their circumstances, has the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to society.

The Gilgit-Baltistan Goodwill Movement (GBGM) remains deeply aligned with this vision and is steadfast in its mission to uplift and empower marginalized communities. Our commitment to social equity is rooted in the principles of inclusivity, dignity, and progress for all, particularly for disabled and differently abled individuals.

We firmly believe that accessibility and equal opportunities are fundamental human rights. Through our ongoing initiatives, we work to remove barriers—both physical and societal—that hinder full participation. By fostering an environment of understanding, support, and integration, we aim to empower individuals with disabilities to lead independent and fulfilling lives.

Our approach extends beyond advocacy; we actively implement programs that enhance accessibility in education, employment, and public spaces. We collaborate with local and international partners to drive policy changes, increase awareness, and create tangible solutions that improve quality of life.

At GBGM, we are dedicated to building a society where every individual, regardless of ability, religion, or gender, is recognized for their unique contributions. By working together, we can create a future that reflects the values of inclusion, compassion, and shared prosperity.

Statement: Addressing Misrepresentation and Dismissive Behavior by IsmailiMail

We are writing to formally address concerns regarding the article titled “Ghulam Muhammad Baig: An Urgent Appeal on Behalf of the Disabled Community of Gilgit Baltistan” published on IsmailiMail.

While we appreciate the initial effort to shed light on the challenges faced by differently-abled individuals then, it is essential to address the subsequent misrepresentation of our work and mission within the article. After its publication, we maintained positive relations with IsmailiMail and engaged constructively. However, following this, we have been met with accusations of having a failed marketing strategy and being unwilling to publish content on their platform, which is both inaccurate and dismissive.

These actions undermine the values of fairness, inclusion, and mutual respect that are essential for meaningful collaboration. The disregard for our contributions and the unfair portrayal of our efforts threaten to distort the public’s understanding of the work being done by the Gilgit Baltistan Goodwill Movement (GBGM).

Call for Accountability and Fair Representation

To address these concerns, we respectfully request the following actions:

1. Accurate Representation: Ensure that future articles provide a truthful and balanced depiction of GBGM’s initiatives and leadership in disability inclusion.

2. Public Clarification: Acknowledge the inaccuracies and issues raised, and issue a statement that accurately reflects our work and values.

3. Constructive Dialogue: Engage with GBGM to foster an environment of openness and mutual understanding, emphasizing the importance of fairness and collaboration.