Junaid Kafili
Karachi: Shaan-e-Pakistan, founded by Huma Haji Zakar Pardesi, hosted its annual Lamyaati Sahoor Night in Karachi on March 6, bringing together prominent figures from across business, arts and civil society while highlighting initiatives focused on inclusion and talent development.
The event drew a large gathering of notable personalities, including Jimmy Engineer, Ishtiaq Baig, Ikhtiar Baig, Ahmed Chinoy, Faisal Mehmood, Jawed Iqbal, Faizan Haqee, Mohammed Azmat, Asifa Ataka, Nadia Hussain, Seemi Pasha, Angie Marshall, Raheel Haroon and Nazia Malik.
Focus on Inclusion and Empowerment
The programme began with a red-carpet reception followed by the Lamyaati segment, creating a reflective and spiritual atmosphere for the evening.
Shanaz Ramzi delivered the welcome address and highlighted the activities of Shaan-e-Pakistan, particularly the SEP Academy for the Visually Impaired, which recently signed a memorandum of understanding with Ida Rieu Welfare Association.
Ramzi said the evening aimed to celebrate inclusivity while showcasing the extraordinary abilities of visually impaired students. She noted that the initiative represents a step toward sustained empowerment through education, creative opportunities and public engagement.
Upcoming Fashion Event Featuring Visually Impaired Students
Ramzi also shared plans for an upcoming fashion event scheduled for May 9, where visually impaired students will participate in a creative showcase for the first time.
According to organisers, the initiative seeks to provide opportunities for visually impaired students to perform live on stage, highlighting talents such as singing and modelling while promoting broader acceptance and inclusion in creative fields.
Music, Reflection and Community Engagement
The evening featured musical performances and social interaction, followed by a traditional sehri gathering that continued into the early hours of the morning.
In her closing remarks, Huma Haji Zakar Pardesi thanked the attendees and reiterated her commitment to supporting visually challenged students through skill development, performance opportunities and wider public engagement.
She said the SEP Academy had already begun offering music training classes for visually impaired students, with the planned fashion show representing the next stage of the initiative.
Promoting Inclusion Beyond Charity
Organisers described the programme as part of a broader vision to move beyond traditional charity models toward empowerment, visibility and meaningful social integration.
By providing platforms that recognise talent regardless of physical limitations, Shaan-e-Pakistan and the SEP Academy aim to contribute to building a more inclusive society.
