Karishma Ali – Footballer & Social Activist

Karishma Ali
International Footballer & Social Activist From Chitral
Karishma Ali emerged as a beacon of hope and change from the rugged mountains of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s district Chitral. She became the first female footballer to represent Pakistan’s national team. From securing a silver medal at the 2016 Jubilee Games in Dubai to competing in the 2017 Australian Football League International Cup, her achievements on the field broke barriers and inspired countless girls from her conservative region to dream big. Her inclusion in Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia in 2019 solidified her legacy as a pioneer in women’s sports.
Driven by her vision to empower young girls, Karishma founded the Chitral Women’s Sports Club and the Karishma Ali Foundation (KAF), using sports as a catalyst for leadership, resilience, and gender equality. Since its inception, KAF has supported over 500 young female athletes, offering them avenues for higher education, leadership development, and social activism. From organizing sports camps for Afghan refugee girls to advocating for gender-based violence awareness and mental health through art therapy, her foundation has become a lifeline for marginalized communities.
Karishma’s journey exemplifies the power of perseverance and the transformative potential of sports. Her tireless advocacy for inclusive policies and mentorship of future leaders continues to pave the way for a more equitable Pakistan. Through her efforts, she envisions a society where girls are empowered to lead, free from violence and inequality, shaping a brighter, more inclusive future for all.