His Excellency, Mr. Fida Hussain, Secretary of Social Welfare for the Government of Gilgit Baltistan, graced our office in Gilgit City with his presence. Mr. Hussain expressed his admiration, stating that “The Goodwill Movement is doing remarkable work for the disabled people of Gilgit Baltistan.” He pledged his support, affirming that he would extend assistance wherever possible.
The onset of the winter season is evident in numerous regions, if not predominant across the globe. During this time, the prevalence of disorders such as Seasonal Affective Disorder tends to escalate, affecting various communities, particularly those that are marginalized. In the specific case of Gilgit Baltistan, a considerable number of disabled individuals find themselves in dire circumstances, grappling with the scarcity of food and the absence of electricity in numerous areas.
Despite the harsh realities faced by individuals in these circumstances, society often turns a blind eye, failing to recognize the severity of the challenges posed by the harsh winter conditions. The social model of health therefore needs to be re-examined by officials, NGO, and others around the globe.
If focusing solely on the Social Determinants of Health: This model recognizes that health outcomes are shaped by social factors such as income, education, employment, housing, and access to healthcare. These determinants play a major role in an individual’s health status.
Deprived of income, a disabled individual finds it challenging to sustain their livelihood, let alone maintain adequate housing conditions for their family. Despite our persistent efforts to highlight the importance of a 3% job quota for disabled individuals in Gilgit Baltistan, it appears to be a peripheral concern for both the government and society. As a community, how can we proactively address this issue?
Given our significant presence as an international force on social media, there exists a compelling opportunity for us to advocate for the rights of Persons with Disabilities. Are these not fundamental human rights? Or is it possible that our cause is overlooked due to a lack of visual appeal, making it easier for society to disregard our concerns?
Similarly, the role of education, an ostensibly minor determinant, contradicts the imperative it should hold within our communities. The prevailing status quo fails to afford equivalent educational opportunities to our populace as readily provided to others. What accounts for this disparity, and why does our societal framework not ensure equitable access to education for all? Is it fear?
In Pakistan, where healthcare resources are constrained, the fundamental right to accessible healthcare, particularly during the winter, becomes imperative. Recent reports of pneumonia cases among children in Lahore underscore the urgency of addressing healthcare disparities. It is essential to recognize that malnutrition not only poses a threat to general health but also intensifies the vulnerability of disabled individuals. The winter season, known for its harsh conditions, magnifies the challenges faced by people with disabilities. Consequently, it is incumbent upon authorities to formalize initiatives that provide free healthcare services, especially during periods of heightened health risks, ensuring a more inclusive and resilient healthcare system for all citizens.
In light of the existing societal polarization in Pakistan, exacerbated by the electoral dynamics and the wheat crises in Gilgit Baltistan, it is imperative to allocate concerted efforts towards addressing the needs of disabled individuals during the winter season. Furthermore, it is crucial to establish enduring mechanisms aimed at mitigating disparities in areas such as income, health, and social well-being. This proactive approach is essential for fostering a more inclusive and equitable society, thereby contributing to the overall welfare of the population.
Dear Candidate
I trust this message finds you well. I hope you can spare some time for introspection regarding your interest in applying for the vacant position.
Allow me to elucidate certain crucial aspects that merit your consideration.
In this movement, of PWDs development not just within Gilgit, but within Baltistan, every NGO has a goal : to make society more inclusive. Our enduring structural plan hinges on three pivotal components: 1) effective project management, 2) the capability to execute plans proficiently, and 3) the acumen to discern tangible results
Not every non-governmental organization (NGO) espouses a specific long-term mindset, and such discretion is well within their prerogative : nonetheless, every NGO wants good for disabled people. So we have to bring in individual reforms at every level
At Goodwill, you will have the liberty to express your own insights, opinions, and perspectives. The intention is not to appoint a “yes man”; on the contrary, we seek individuals who embody the following ideals for this field of work:
A. Aspire to catalyze positive change for the disabled society.
B. Envision transformative shifts in individual behavior.
C. Advocate for the integration and flourishing of disabled individuals within an egalitarian society.
At Goodwill, the emphasis is not solely on generating the most creative reports but rather on fostering a collaborative environment where shared contributions are valued.
In Goodwill, as in many organizations, supervisors generally seek tangible results. However, the nature of these results may vary based on the approach of measurement—whether quantitatively or qualitatively. Nonetheless what we are concerned about is whether such measures can help disabled people in whatever field they choose to go, for example Khushan.
The only thing that matters is whether Goodwill, makes a change in a person’s life : whether that is a huge or a small change
The only question now is are you ready to join us? 👇👇👇👇👇
Every institution must prioritize its professional development. The specialized enhancement of diverse skills is instrumental in fostering the growth of an institution. Therefore, GB Goodwill Movement is pleased to declare the commencement of recruitment for the positions of Project Manager and External Affairs Officer at Goodwill Movement, Gilgit.
Adhering to the professional ethics inherent in working for a non-governmental organization (NGO), we recognize that a functioning society relies on the collaboration of numerous individuals and networks.
We anticipate that the selected candidate will contribute significantly to our NGO’s growth, expanding not only in disability development but also in promoting the social inclusion of the disabled/differently-abled community.
Please refer to the attached job description on our homepage for more details.
To view our Annual Reports, Team Goodwill has published its reports on its LinkedIn Page
Please find the necessary documents via the Documents tab on the Page.
Happy World Braille Day! Let’s celebrate the life and legacy of Louis Braille, who opened the doors of literacy and education for millions of people with his ingenious invention. 
On this World Braille Day, let’s remember the words of Louis Braille: “Access to communication in the widest sense is access to knowledge, and that is vitally important for us if we are not to go on being despised or patronized by condescending sighted people. We do not need pity, nor do we need to be reminded that we are vulnerable. We must be treated as equals – and communication is the way we can bring this about.” 
World Braille Day is a day to celebrate the power of reading and writing, and the amazing contribution of Louis Braille, who created a system of raised dots that can be felt with the fingertips. Braille is not just a code, but an assistive language of light and hope for many people around the world. 
The availability of other essential technologies such as hearing aids, speech-generating devices, and assistive language devices is notably deficient in Gilgit Baltistan. This deficiency is exacerbated by a paucity of financial resources allocated to initiatives addressing the needs of individuals with disabilities. Regrettably, both the general populace and educational institutions in the region demonstrate a lack of interest in integrating these technologies.
The imperative to advocate for equality within society is underscored by the prevailing inequities in access to assistive technologies. The marginalized position of disabled individuals, attributed to constrained financial resources and societal misconceptions, underscores the need for a more inclusive and discerning perspective. The question arises as to why individuals with disabilities are precluded from contributing meaningfully to societal discourse merely on the grounds of limited funding or understanding. Advocating for equal representation and influence for disabled individuals is not merely a matter of justice but also a necessity for fostering a truly inclusive and participatory society.
Upon this New Year’s Eve, Gilgit Baltistan’s Goodwill Movement – GBGM would like to congratulate Khushan Bano for her services to the Mehnaz Fatima Foundation.
Khushan served as an intern in Mehnaz Fatima’s finance and HR department. On behalf of the GBGM team, we would like to thank Ms Tahira for her belief in our work.
#WorkingTogetherToMakeADifference
in places like Gilgit Baltistan, where DPOs are ignored, this is a huge success for our people and our community. It shows that disabled/differently abled people can thrive within society. Goodwill has long struggled for the rights of disabled persons, in their educational skills, employment and vocational skills.
This is a huge SUCCESS!!
Friday, the 15th December : It is with immense pleasure that Icare Foundation has signed a long term agreement with GoodWill Movement to focus on inclusive operations within Pakistan. The Icare Foundation is a platform for organized and intelligent giving for donors of all levels – individuals, corporations, aid agencies and other non-profit organizations – with the goal of maximizing the impact and effectiveness of their donations. Together with the foundation, we can work on our shared objectives within the region of Gilgit Baltistan.
We are also attaching our link on the Foundation’s website, via the DONATE VIA ICARE Foundation RADIO button.
Gilgit Baltistan’s Goodwill Movement Celebrates International Disability Day with a Call to Action Gilgit Baltistan’s Goodwill Movement, December 4, 2023
– Today, the Goodwill Skill Development Centre in Gilgit Baltistan echoed with the spirit of empowerment and advocacy as officials from the Social Welfare Department, Government of GB, joined forces with Mr. Israr Uddin, Regional Coordinator of the Human Rights Commission, to commemorate International Disability Day. Serving as the esteemed Chief Guest, Mr. Israr Uddin brought focus and commitment to addressing the challenges faced by individuals living with disabilities.
Amidst an atmosphere of unity and purpose, representatives and disabled individuals presented a comprehensive charter of demands to the government.
The goodwill movement highlighted several critical issues, urging immediate attention and action: 1. Implementation of Quota and Business Rules: • Enforce the 3 percent quota for the employment of persons with disabilities. • Ensure strict adherence to the business rules outlined in the GB Disability Act of 2019. 2. Freeing Special Education Hostel: • Immediate release of the special education hostel currently occupied by NAB, enabling its intended use for persons with disabilities. 3. Establishment of Skill Development Centre: • Prompt establishment of a dedicated Skill Development Centre for persons with disabilities. • In case of delays, extend support to all Disabled Persons Organizations (DPOs) actively engaged in skill development initiatives in Gilgit Baltistan. 4. Regularization of Employment: • Regularize the employment status of all persons with disabilities engaged in various projects and contingencies in Gilgit Baltistan. 5. Upgrading Special Education Center: • Upgrade the existing Special Education Center from middle to high school level, expanding educational opportunities for individuals with disabilities. 6. Support for Special Education Schools: • Supply essential support and appoint necessary staff in Ghizer and Chilas Special Education Schools. • Ensure the functional status of the ready building for Special Education in Ghizer and address the non-functional aspect promptly. 7. Expansion of Special Education Schools: • Establish Special Education Schools in all districts of Gilgit Baltistan to ensure accessibility and inclusivity for individuals with disabilities.
The collective voice of the disability community resonates with a call for action from the government, seeking proactive measures to address these pressing concerns. Mr. Israr Uddin emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts, stating, “It’s our collective responsibility to create an inclusive society where every individual, regardless of ability, has equal access to opportunities.” This International Disability Day marks a pivotal moment in Gilgit Baltistan, signaling a unified demand for change and progress towards a more inclusive and equitable society.
If there is one place where global society learned its structures, it was Rome, home of the Romans. The Roman Civilisation, modern-day Italy has historical facilities which tourists can learn from. Rome is a tourist destination with a historical significance nowadays and in the past.
Hidden Social Meanings found within its buildings and surroundings
Rome is diverse, from the Vatican City to the Coliseum, but with that, Italians appericate their history and reflect upon the past mistakes that were committed. Academics have highlighted that, like in Pakistan these days and across the world, Depending on one’s status, impairments would have more or less an impact on their daily life. Read more; for instance, the ‘Great ‘Julius Caesar experienced many seizures.
Secondly, in terms of the present-day Vatican, Pope Jorge Mario Bergoglio, after ten at night, lets people experiencing poverty in Rome sleep in his Gardens palaces. What message this brings is that even though the Romans and the Roman Church argue that there is a move away from feudalism to socialism, even though people might critique and suggest that feudalism is within the churches, which I agree with, there is a time and place to critique such people.
Romans versus the Pakistan Elite
For the latter part of the discussion, let’s assume that the Brits have taken this Aspect from the Romans/Italians. Can the Pakistani Elite not do the same for PWDs? Are we suggesting that the Pakistani Elite are much bigger than the Romans? Sania Nishtar’s programs, such as Ehsaas and HealthCard, pushed the Social Welfare Agenda, but why was it stopped, especially for PWDs? Where is that agenda? A Unjust Budget
Conclusion
Gilgit Baltistan has a rich history, but unlike the Italians, the feudalistic structures still remain within society. We must treat disabled persons the same, no matter whether they are poor or not.
