Pakistan celebrated its 73rd Independence Day on the 14th of August 2019. To commemorate this auspicious day, the Aga Khan Youth and Sports Board (AKYSB) for Southern Region organised a mural painting activity in the city of Karachi. Members of the Ismaili community, known for their community spirit and positive contributions to society, observed the national day with great zeal.

An astounding 1470 members came together to observe the day by painting murals in different parts of the city. Talented artists from the Jamat contributed their artistic flair in preparing the walls by drawing sketches on the them. The majority of the participants were comprised primarily of Girl Guides and Boys Scouts, along with AKYSB committees.

The activity allowed the Jamat, especially the youth, to let their creativity flow and channel their energy towards a community project. The murals encapsulated several themes such as the spirit of independence, environmental protection, water scarcity, and substance abuse.

One participant appreciated the lessons the activity aimed to promote. “It helped me to understand the importance of natural resources and how to preserve them for the future,” he articulated.

Girl Guides Group leader, Zara Nizar, expressed her appreciation for the event stating, “It was a wonderful initiative and everyone participated with zest and enthusiasm. We must do such activities in the future as well.”

The participants were also pleased with their positive experience from the activity. One such individual expressed, “It was a good initiative. After so long, we worked in teams for a social cause. We also realised that such an initiative can be implemented on a local level.”