Karishma Ali

Karishma Ali, from District Chitral, is the founder of the Karishma Ali Foundation (KAF), a women-led organization promoting leadership, social change, and women’s empowerment, particularly in marginalized communities. She made history by pioneering a female football team, breaking barriers and promoting physical activities, art therapy, and awareness of climate change, women’s rights, and gender-based violence. In 2024, KAF launched the “Gamechangers for Climate Justice” initiative to educate young girls about climate change, featuring stories from Chitral’s climate-impacted communities. Karishma has earned numerous accolades, including Forbes Asia 30 Under 30 (2019), the “Tell Her Story” award (2020), the Pride of Pakistan Award (2022), and the Sports Positive Next Generation Trailblazer Award (2024). She is also a member of UN Women’s 30 for 2030.