The Hunza Girls Making Their Mark at the World's Biggest Festival

 The Hunza Girls: Making Their Mark at the World's Biggest Festival

The theatre reverberates with applause as the lights illuminate the stage, casting a spotlight on two remarkable young girls from Gulmit, Gojal Hunza. Abeera Rubab and Eshal Fatima, both 13 years old, stand tall, exuding confidence and fluency in flawless English as they discuss their roles in the feature film "Yasmeen's Element," showcased at the renowned SXSW festival in Austin, Texas. Amidst a mesmerized audience, including seasoned film producers and executives from top tech companies, the girls captivate attention with their articulate presentation.

Introduction:

Gulmit, nestled in the remote district of Hunza, bordering Afghanistan and China, is home to these extraordinary young talents. Their portrayal in "Yasmeen's Element" not only highlights their acting prowess but also sheds light on the progressive ethos of their hometown, where education, particularly for girls, is prioritized.

The Progressive Society of Hunza:

Hunza, known for its predominantly Ismaili population, practices a moderate version of Islam under the guidance of the Aga Khan. The community places a strong emphasis on education, adhering to the Aga Khan's directive to prioritize the education of daughters if resources are limited. This progressive mindset has led to Hunza boasting the highest literacy rate in Pakistan, with girls outnumbering boys in both quantitative and qualitative aspects of academia. 

Al Amyn Model School Gulmit:

Abeera and Eshal are proud students of Al Amyn Model School Gulmit, an educational institution established by the local community in the early 1990s. The school was conceived to provide holistic development opportunities for students and serve as an alternative to government-run schools that often fell short of meeting the community's educational needs. Remarkably, the school's tuition fees were once linked to the price of potatoes, the primary cash crop in the region, showcasing the community's resourcefulness and commitment to education.

Educational Development and Holistic Learning:

The educational philosophy of Al Amyn Model School prioritizes holistic development, encompassing academic excellence, character building, and the cultivation of essential life skills. Through various extracurricular activities, including drama performances and public speaking events, students like Abeera and Eshal hone their linguistic abilities and develop confidence in expressing themselves fluently in English, a testament to the school's dedication to providing a well-rounded education.

 Premier of "Yasmeen's Element":

As Abeera and Eshal share their experiences of growing up in Hunza and attending Al Amyn Model School, the audience is captivated by their narratives. Their anecdotes not only showcase the beauty of Hunza but also highlight the pivotal role of education, particularly female education, in shaping progressive societies. Against the backdrop of "Yasmeen's Element," a film that addresses the challenges faced by girls and advocates for female education, the conversation at the premiere is dominated by discussions about Hunza's literacy rate and the impact of institutions like Al Amyn Model School on the community.

Conclusion:

Abeera Rubab and Eshal Fatima's journey from the picturesque valleys of Hunza to the global stage of SXSW symbolizes the transformative power of education and the resilience of young girls in overcoming societal barriers. Their success not only celebrates their individual achievements but also underscores the collective efforts of communities like Gulmit in fostering a culture of learning, empowerment, and progress. As Hunza continues to inspire with its progressive values and commitment to education, Abeera and Eshal stand as shining examples of the potential unleashed when opportunities and determination converge.