ISLAMABAD: A fundraising event titled ‘Pankh - The Power to Rise’ was held to promote equitable education and leadership development among young people.

The event brought together nearly 300 representatives of the business community, diplomatic corps and civil society, who pledged their support for expanding educational opportunities for children from under-resourced communities.

Serena Hotels, in collaboration with Teach For Pakistan (TFP), hosted the event as part of its public diplomacy programme.

TFP Founder and CEO Khadija Bakhtiar said the organisation’s growing alumni community continued to work towards a more equitable and prosperous Pakistan, where every child could realise their potential regardless of circumstances.

Renowned actor Fawad Khan, who hosted the evening, described the fellowship as a commitment by young people willing to work within disadvantaged communities to understand and address inequality.

He said the public-private partnership was helping transform schools and narrow the educational achievement gap, urging Pakistanis at home and abroad to support the initiative.

Singer Zeb Bangash also performed at the event. Sharing her experience of visiting a TFP school, she said the dedication of Fellows and their impact on students had deeply moved her.

Organisers said 100pc of the funds raised would directly support Teach For Pakistan’s Fellowship Programme.

Published in Dawn, November 9th, 2026