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This Pakistani woman defies stereotypes by riding her bike 3200km into the heart of Pakistan

Zenith Irfan undertook the journey of a lifetime in memory of her father, travelling solo to Pakistan's northern areas
Updated 28 Jun, 2016

Wind running through her hair and sun kissing her face, Zenith Irfan never second-guessed her 3200 km journey to the northern areas of Pakistan. At the age of 20, she decided to fulfill her late father's dream — to travel the world on a bike.

She is not your average Pakistani girl and she pays no heed to gender role expectations. At 18, she was learning how to ride a motorcycle.

"In 2013, when my brother bought his first motorcycle, he gave me riding lessons. It was then that I decided to journey on a motorcycle adventure — after gaining adequate training,” she said.

She had once asked her mother what her late father had always dreamed of doing, and was told he wanted to go on a motorcycle journey around the world. Thus began Zenith's journey. Remarkably, her mother was the driving force behind the idea.

Zenith with her father. Photo: Facebook
Zenith with her father. Photo: Facebook

"My family comprises of my mother, brother and I, we are a small family of three. And it was actually my mother’s idea that I should go on a motorcycle journey in order to leave a legacy for my late father," she explained.


To the north


Zenith has traveled up north twice, once when she rode 700km to Kashmir solo in June 2015, and again when she was accompanied by her brother and four other friends in August 2015 to Khunjerab Pass, Attabad Lake, Hunza, Gilgit, Skardu, Deosai, Naran, Kaghan, Saif-Ul- Mulook, Babusar Top, Chilas, Abottabad, and other prominent places in the North.

What is most impressive about her travels is that she gained supporters throughout her journey.

"I mostly met farmers and shepherds. The people were incredibly encouraging and supported me to carry this endeavor even further. It was an amazing experience,” she said.

Zenith mingling with the locals. Photo: Facebook
Zenith mingling with the locals. Photo: Facebook

Wasn't she a little nervous about her trips? A voyage to the northern areas comes with its own security risks, and here was Zenith as a solo female traveller. “No, I was not scared at all," insists the biker. "I don’t let fear come in the way of achieving something I aspire to."

Rather, her journey became an inspiration for others as soon as she created a Facebook page.

Posing away with her motorcycle. Photo: Facebook
Posing away with her motorcycle. Photo: Facebook

“I did not consciously [try to] inspire others,” she said. “I simple opened up a page on Facebook and became a symbol of women empowerment in Pakistan. Now, when I have gained international recognition, people look up to me as role models and inspire to undertake a motorcycle journey too.”


Safety measures


But this comes at a cost. The biker keeps mum about her travels due to security reasons.

"Initially, I did not tell people, and I still don’t tell anyone as to where and when I am going. And I do plan on riding to many other places and meeting new people, but due to security reasons, I cannot disclose my location. It is when I come back and upload pictures on my Facebook page that people discover I have been on a tour. Yes, a lot of people want to join me but I prefer to travel with my brother instead," said Zenith.


A journey of rediscovery


Carrying only her father's passport sized picture in her wallet, she explained that her journey brought her closer to her father spiritually and taught her to be more patient and thankful to God. She, like many, has also had a change of heart about Pakistan post her travels.

In a nutshell she explained one such experience she had:

“As a Pakistani, Pakistan has surprised me in ways I never expected it to. I was told by my brother that I have to cover my face since we were en route to Chilas. I asked him why and he replied, 'That's the way it is. No one should know you're a female. Stay alert and stay safe', I did what I was told and rode quietly through the mountains of Chilas.

Zenith covered her face while traveling to certain places. Photo: Facebook
Zenith covered her face while traveling to certain places. Photo: Facebook

"During my journey, I remember seeing kids with stones in their hands. They wanted to stop and inquire about our journey, but we had to keep riding since the place has been subject to a lot of violence in the past. I had heard a lot of people saying that Chilas is an area where they dislike tourists or anyone coming inside. I have a habit of not listening to rumors and traveling to such controversial places to see for myself.

The biker hanging out with the locals and their kids. Photo: Facebook
The biker hanging out with the locals and their kids. Photo: Facebook

"On my way back, I met a man at Babusar Top who said that he was a Chilasi and because of the high illiteracy rate, the people of Chilas don't know how to react when someone who doesn't belong from their village shows up. The man, despite being a Chilasi, was humble and friendly, and that's when I realized that it is not important for a person who belongs to a moot group to be the same as others.

"Yes, there are people who kill thousands, but at the same time, there are many who want to spread peace and love. Never judge somebody's existence on the basis of their skin, caste or religion," she explains.


A message to the people


This fear also explains why most parents are skeptical about letting their children travel up North, but Zenith feels parents need to trust their children more and let them explore.

"Allow your child to explore and relive their experiences. It is very important for parents to trust their children -- we are bound to travel and our inner selves crave to touch the earth’s surface," she explained.

Zenith and her brother with locals. Photo: Facebook
Zenith and her brother with locals. Photo: Facebook

And for those who see Zenith as a source of inspiration, she said: "Listen to your inner voice and follow your dream. If society tells you you’re crazy to do such a thing, tell society you’re crazy and blissful in your happiness."

Her Bollywood moment amidst the mountains. Photo: Facebook
Her Bollywood moment amidst the mountains. Photo: Facebook

Although there are many who disapprove of her ventures and lifestyle, this motorcyclist refuses to bat an eye. "The more time they spend hating on me, the more motivated I am to ride and ride. The amount of energy the haters put on hating me, I can use all of it to go on another tour and prove them that the world cannot change by just typing on a keyboard," she said.

Having been a part of one of the most exhilarating experiences in life, Zenith sums up her travels in one word: liberating.

And there’s no stopping this adventurer. Her bike still has a lot more mileage to cover as she maps out her travels to other parts of the country with her brother.

Comments

Soil of talents Jun 28, 2016 01:30pm
A talented brave girl , daughter of brave father. Wish you all the best.
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Adeel Jun 28, 2016 01:33pm
Way she GO :)
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Ajay Ladkani Jun 28, 2016 01:38pm
Well done brave lady, Congrats from an Indian. Kudos to Dawn also for publishing splendid pictures.
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Umer Jun 28, 2016 01:41pm
Zindabad..
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Bhuvan Saran Jun 28, 2016 01:45pm
Simply Excellent!
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Rohit Jun 28, 2016 01:48pm
Lovely story......travel has to be the greatest pleasure life has to offer....
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Amnagi Jun 28, 2016 01:54pm
Kudos ! Stay safe, explore places, inspire others and keep us posted.
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Sameer Zia Jun 28, 2016 02:04pm
Hats up to the brave girl. There are many stereotype in our society, just face them bravely. cheers
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sandhu Jun 28, 2016 02:08pm
Pakistan is the best country with lots of potential and diversity. Only need honest leaders and policy transform this country into real spirit.
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Zubair Jun 28, 2016 02:12pm
She seems to have quite a few other women with her, why are they not being featured?
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S A Jun 28, 2016 02:16pm
I am proud of you , be safe always and never ride without helmet.
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Salman Jun 28, 2016 02:18pm
Bravo! YAMAHA and HONDA you make billions in Pakistan by selling disgusting bikes,. How about redeem your corporate image by gifting this girl a proper touring bike.
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asifali Jun 28, 2016 02:22pm
I can say Pakistani people are the most friendly and I personally think every body can do ride bicycle or motorcycle nothing wonderful in this topic Pakistan is safe than other western countries for women. People do think that women should be safe in every circumstances.
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Jhony Walker Jun 28, 2016 02:23pm
Wonderful, inspiration for all girls of Pakistan. It is a fine example.
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Najaf Jun 28, 2016 02:29pm
Amazing and that also on a very ordinary bike!!! Keep going!
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Aamer Nawaz Jun 28, 2016 02:32pm
awesome ! Way to go girl !! Great Positive adevertisement for Pakistan tourism ! Pakistani Women Rock !
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Prateek Mishra Jun 28, 2016 02:33pm
wow.. breaking the barriers.. cheers from India.
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INAM EAST LONDON Jun 28, 2016 02:34pm
What a wonderful story- you are very spirtual girl and have high regards for yor late father. i'm glad to see whatever you do has a lot of planning and thought behind it, you have learned and trained yourself before going on such journeys in dangerous areas. I don't know why someone would hate you for that? but can understand its Pakistan and most people there are un educated and narrow minded and radical mullah tutoring. where a person who prays 5 times a day and reads few books hadiths seems to thinks he or she has god given right to give fatwa on others and judge others feel best. There IS NO TORRENCE IN SOCIETY, land where a mother would murder their own daughter in name of honour but failed to understand true Islam which forbids this action. God Help us.
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Lt Col(Retd)S K Nagpal Jun 28, 2016 02:36pm
Bravo Yong lady. Youhave shown that South Asian women are as brave as any other in this word
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Masood Ahmad Jun 28, 2016 02:41pm
Proud to be Pakistani
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Naveed Jun 28, 2016 02:51pm
What stereotype women can drive whatever they want
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Abdullah Jan Jun 28, 2016 02:52pm
its really amazing and interesting in - fact when Zenith talks about her bike riding and particularly to the norther part of Pakistan. a bit challenge no doubt while crossing through mountains steep up and high road along with the river. its the one who has the courage and brave. really wonderful..... keep it up but make sure the safety measures and sliding area while riding in mountainous areas. inspiring adventurist .....
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Ashish Jun 28, 2016 03:00pm
felt nice from heart reading this...thanking you
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Neil Jun 28, 2016 03:02pm
Way to go sister. You are inspiration to a lots of us.
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Asif Jamil Jun 28, 2016 03:09pm
Follow your dreams young lady. Be safe and ignore comments of closed minded people. Lucky father of an adventurous daughter who is fulfilling his dream. All the best.
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Aly Alp-Ercelan Jun 28, 2016 03:16pm
wah! may she become an inspiration to many!
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Patrick Jun 28, 2016 03:19pm
What a wonderful brave young woman. You epitomise the great future Pakistan will have when the women are allowed freedom to pursue their destiny. All Pakistan must be proud of you Hope to see you in Europe soon
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Farooq Jawed Jun 28, 2016 03:23pm
Someone ought to tell our misogynistic religious leaders (mullahs) that Women can do anything they set their mind to doing. Bravo Ms. Irfan. Its pretty impressive that you got the trip concluded on a small street bike, in pretty harsh looking terrain. I wish you all the best in your future endeavours. Maybe next we will hear that you are leading a group, Men included, to space. Literally sky is the limit and I hope you inspire many more young ladies to fulfil their dreams and maybe one of you will discover cure for Cancer among many other positive accomplishments.
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karachi Wally Jun 28, 2016 03:24pm
Role model from ordinary people every girl should be ambitious to break the stereo types!
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Naxalite Jun 28, 2016 03:24pm
WOW. Unbelievable is just done!
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lmk Jun 28, 2016 03:29pm
Zenith and brother, keep safe through your amazing travels, and good luck!!!
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Arslan Jun 28, 2016 03:38pm
Wishing her many more safe journeys.
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dawn Jun 28, 2016 03:53pm
Well done!
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inam London Jun 28, 2016 04:04pm
Great little story - Brave girl - this just show with little imagination and proper planning anything is possible even in Pakistan well done girl, you have made us pround including your late father. I just hope the thinking of some please change and may we have less of Mullah attitude and more of positive news . p.s RIP Amjad Sabri we love you.
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Sankar Mitra Jun 28, 2016 04:09pm
I am a 79 years old Bengali from Kolkata. I read this paper occasionally on the internet. I am surprised to read this article. I have met Pakistanis (mostly young people who are friends of my son ) in western countries only. They belong to the young generation of modern world and one cannot make out whether they are from Pakistan or India or any other country. But I had a different notion about Pakistanis from Pakistan. The story of this brave young girl has opened my eyes about young generation of Pakistan. This girl has no inhibition or complex and extremely courageous. Kudos to her.
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ALI Jun 28, 2016 04:19pm
mashallah well done girl
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Arun-KS Jun 28, 2016 04:37pm
Women Empowerment Zindabad!
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Afzal Jun 28, 2016 04:55pm
Yes Zenith, travel gives one a feel of freedom! Travelling and learning people from all walks of life gives you an insight in the life of how people live, move and interact, also in the remote areas. After all they are also humans. Keep it up brave khatoon of Pakistan. We have a wonderful country only neglected by the CEOs of the administration. Pity!
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Shahid Akbar, New York Jun 28, 2016 06:08pm
I am so proud of this girl. Beautiful Pakistan, my native country, and beautiful people.
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Usman Chaudhri Jun 28, 2016 06:13pm
You are exploring and unhiding the hidden gems and cultures of this Country and many more will follow you in the future. Keep going. Best.
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krishna Jun 28, 2016 06:18pm
It is not that all women are relegated. Pakistanis girls have great future, against all adversaries. Bravo!
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ashutosh mishra Jun 28, 2016 06:22pm
All power to you girl. May all women of Pakistan get the education, health and love and affection as well as the social freedoms to engage in unfettered creative pursuits in your country. Wish all the girls everywhere the same!!!
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Chris Roberts Jun 28, 2016 06:45pm
An amazing story! Zenith is a very spiritual, adventurous young lady. Truly an inspiration for many to follow their dreams. God bless you, Zenith.
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I. Khan Canada Jun 28, 2016 06:58pm
I am certainly proud of bravo and lovely Zenith , wish you all the success in the world.
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FutureWizard Jun 28, 2016 07:12pm
You and your brother are most welcome to travel in India.
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Irfan Jun 28, 2016 07:22pm
Something positive from Pakistan for a change. Wish her well hope she stays safe.
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Nasreen Khan Jun 28, 2016 07:23pm
Hey Zenith you go gurl.. life is for living and good on you to go ahead and live it... I would so go out and do something no one has done before
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Agha Ata Jun 28, 2016 07:33pm
Zenith Irfan, I am glad that your parents didn't cut your wings. : >) If I were in Pakistan, and a girl you would have been my ideal, Brave, Beautiful, Compassionate, and so beautifully Extrovert. Your great father must be smiling wherever he is. And, I am sure you are inspiring thousands of girls to do what you did, but they have many other fields to become like Zanith. Good Luck to you for the rest of your life!
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Kevin D'Sylva Jun 28, 2016 07:38pm
Congratulations Zenith on your accomplishments and breaking down the barriers when it comes to fulfilling the social liberties in Pakistan. Although an Islamic country by virtue, it is encouraging to see a female Pakistani living her dream to the fullest. Do NOT allow any negative comments dissuade you from you doing what makes you the whole person that you are, and if you ever travel to the US please feel free to stay at our home during your trip.
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Shujaat Khan Jun 28, 2016 07:52pm
Zenith your name means highest point. Keep reaching for the stars and never mind the naysayers. Congratulations good job.
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OMAR Jun 28, 2016 07:58pm
Salute to your courage. Unique talent of Pakistan. Keep Rising
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Shafique Jun 28, 2016 08:11pm
Bravo and awesome, salute to this young lady for her adventurous trip to North as one of the most beautiful places in the world, these places are more beautiful then Swiss, keep up the spirit.
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John from US Jun 28, 2016 08:16pm
Hi, I am a bike roady. Was impressed with the scenery and the spirit. Would love to make a trip to Pakistan
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Intrepid Jun 28, 2016 08:20pm
Be proud! I'm proud of you and I'm from California!!! Great job. I bet it must have been a lot of fun with a sense of freedom.
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GA Jun 28, 2016 08:28pm
How many women she must be inspiring right at this very moment. All support to you and best of luck. I see a lot of supporting comments from South Asian men here which is very encouraging.
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Syed Moinuddin, Canada Jun 28, 2016 08:32pm
I admire this young Pakistani lady. I am always delighted, when stories such as these which are so inspiring and a reflection of changing society and its attitudes. As a senior person and living in Canada for almost fifty years, I feel so proud of young Paksitanis, especially young women who are progressing in spite of all the challenges they face.
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Uday Kulkarni Jun 28, 2016 08:41pm
When I first saw the title of the article; I said what the hell ? You will find many women in India travelling on mo-bikes in many cities & even towns & villages. It is very common and no big deal. However when I read the complete article; I had nothing but just admiration for Zenith Irfan's adventure of travel, which is way far more than just riding on a motorbike as a female. Her inspiration and her defiance against the tradition is a very brave effort of having chartered into geographical areas where men have scared to go. Hats off to her spirit and efforts.
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qaisar Jun 28, 2016 09:06pm
proud of u, i would like my daughters to me more like u..... thank u
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Muhammad Ilyas Alam Jun 28, 2016 09:10pm
good.i m so proud on u.u r a brave gril and brave face of pakistan.
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Himachali_indian Jun 28, 2016 09:11pm
nice to see a girl from Pakistan doing biking and solo....all the best wishes......DAWN always beautiful...
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Himachali_indian Jun 28, 2016 09:11pm
nice to see a girl from Pakistan doing biking and solo....all the best wishes......DAWN always beautiful...
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Farooq khan Jun 28, 2016 09:50pm
Bravo, be blessed, my prayers with you in all noble and brave endeavours
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stupid Jun 28, 2016 09:54pm
Motorcycle should have better. Does not go with her gorgeous look!
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Khalid Jun 28, 2016 10:36pm
"Amazing!" Fantastic! We wish one "more follow in your footsteps" Wishing you "safe journey's"
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adnan Jun 28, 2016 11:02pm
Go brave girl and love your dream
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zk Jun 28, 2016 11:29pm
Bravo!You go girl
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Sri1 Jun 28, 2016 11:52pm
Wish you the best from across the border, may you break many more records and glass ceilings of our subcontinent!
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Shafique Jun 29, 2016 12:15am
Bravo and salute for this young lady, shown best and the beautiful part of Pakistan, keep & fulfill your dreams.
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ROHIT PANDEY Jun 29, 2016 01:15am
Very nice.:):):) That looks a simple commuter bike? She needs a bigger one with a more powerful engine? Like a Kawasaki Versys 650?:) Intrepid girl, keep going through adventures all through your life?:)
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Dard-e-Dil Jun 29, 2016 01:24am
hats off to you girl!!!!!!!!!! you rock
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John from US Jun 29, 2016 01:37am
@Sankar Mitra admire the unequalled spirit of Pakistanis in every field, it's a nation apart from all others. And we are immensely proud of it.
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Kyoorius Jun 29, 2016 01:43am
Well done. Keep up the spirit...
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B. Sridhar Jun 29, 2016 02:03am
You go, Girl!
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Edge Jun 29, 2016 02:32am
Amazing pictures. Do not forget the historical places in Pakistan. Neglected for long time. Pakistan real beauty is its past. Please explore capture and show. For now two thumbs up.
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Freeman Jun 29, 2016 03:51am
Well done. Keep it up girls. You have full right to enjoy your life. You actions will encourage a lot more
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toxicshadow197 Jun 29, 2016 04:25am
Now you need an upgraded bike ;)
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Bilal Jun 29, 2016 04:32am
Well done, great role model for the future !
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Munz Jun 29, 2016 04:40am
You're an inspiration!!!
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JB Jun 29, 2016 04:52am
I am so happy after reading this news, keep it up girl and please encourage other girls too.
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S. A. M. Jun 29, 2016 06:17am
your mother is great. she gave you such strong encouragement. wonderful family.
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Shaukat Jun 29, 2016 07:03am
@Zubair ,where did you see "quite a few"women with her,where?
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English lavenders Jun 29, 2016 07:11am
Is it really a story.
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Irfan Jun 29, 2016 07:22am
You make us all proud to be Pakistani. Keep safe and always wear a helmet. I am sure your father is smiling down on you as you accomplish what you set out to do.
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khalid Jun 29, 2016 07:55am
Good on you. Did well.
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Ali Raza-Brisbane Jun 29, 2016 08:15am
I don't know what is the taboo, my aunt and two of her lady friends drove from Turkey to Karachi in 1968. It seems all the writers are interested in few words. I am a dawn reader since 1967, and I miss that Dawn.
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jagmohan Jun 29, 2016 08:32am
Really a proud daughter of Pakistan,endowed with a small but fortunate family,to help her in all the way to realize a dream of her late father.All the more this story has great moral for the society that believes in caging women folk,as far as possible. She is a role model and inspiration for the country.Her brother too,entitled to great admiration,for companionship and encouragement.Regards from India for the venture.
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Awais Jun 29, 2016 08:37am
After a very long time I read a very motivational article ! Stay blessed Zenith ! Have your dreams..
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Qamar Jun 29, 2016 08:47am
Good keep it up inspiration for all (Y)
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brr Jun 29, 2016 11:33am
Excellent, well done. But one swallow does not a summer make.
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MOHUMMUD IDREES HUSAIN Jun 29, 2016 11:52am
Follow your dream and remember that trust in God is more important than the fear of anything, men or society. That's the way to live, to be creative, to explore your limits. They Live, Who Dare.
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Shamyla Chaudry Jun 29, 2016 12:06pm
Well Done...Wishing you all the best
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TK Jun 29, 2016 12:15pm
Zenith, careful there, you might become a revolutionary :). Road trips and close contact with people will make you realize how wonderful your country is and what a disgusting game politics is. Read the story of Ernesto Che Guevara. Unfortunately he became violent, but I hope you can be a force for good for your country.
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Dr. Ashraf Kh Jun 29, 2016 12:19pm
Congratulations! You are true inspiration for many young Pakistani women, including my 11 year old. God bless you and stay safe.
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Azfar A Khan Jun 29, 2016 12:25pm
Juat keep going - and going with full force! You're the brave daughter of a brave father. Best of luck. We're proud of you - and your brother too who's with you in your bold adventures!
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Cavalier Jun 29, 2016 06:01pm
Brave daughter of a brave Pakistan Army officer. Thumbs up...!
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mesotwisty Jun 29, 2016 11:32pm
Proud of you. Keep inspiring.
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Chandras Jun 30, 2016 07:22am
Marry me !!! :)
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gilgiti Jun 30, 2016 10:01am
impressive.. role model.. wish u all the best
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Fawad Jun 30, 2016 02:48pm
Gender biased, she is getting coverage because of her gender, what about her co-riders, they did play great role it in too, as evident with images.
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obivankanobi Jun 30, 2016 07:39pm
What courage. A true inspiration in conservative Pskistan.
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Pakistani Jun 30, 2016 10:26pm
Keep going all the best brave girl
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masud Jul 01, 2016 03:51pm
@Ali Raza-Brisbane with all due respect please keep this in mind that a lot has changed since then. Pakistan is not the same as it was during sixties and seventies. So I tend to agree with the general opinion that it is a great feat by this young girl and her brother. I wish there is a way we could help her get a better bike. God bless.
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