Boxing Provides a Path Out of Poverty for Girls in Pakistan
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A young boxer is using the sport to change her country’s gender norms.
Aliya Soomro was not yet 10 years old when she heard that a boxing coach near her home was training young girls. Soomro lives in Lyari, a densely populated neighborhood in Karachi, Pakistan, known for gang violence and dangerous streets. When she heard about this gym, where she could learn to box, Soomro jumped at the chance. And while her conservative family and community were concerned at first, boxing soon proved to be a path out of poverty for Soomro. Now, other young girls in Lyari are getting the chance to follow their athletic dreams.
About The Long Game: On The Long Game, we highlight stories of courage and conviction on and off the field. From athletes who are breaking barriers for women and girls to a Syrian refugee swimmer who overcame the odds to compete at the Paralympics, The Long Game examines the power of sport to change the world for the better. The Long Game is hosted by Olympic medalist and change agent Ibtihaj Muhammad as she guides the series around the globe to meet athletes who are fighting for change. See All Episodes
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