WPTGF And EWM Hold Training In Rawalpindi To Promote Freedom Of Religion Or Belief

RAWALPINDI, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 27th Jul, 2025) In a significant step towards promoting the right to freedom of religion or belief (FoRB), the Weaving People to Grow Foundation (WPTGF), in collaboration with Empower Women Media (EWM), hosted a one-day training session titled "Live What You Believe" in a local hotel, Bakra Mandi, Rawalpindi.

The event brought together a large number of women and youth participants from diverse backgrounds to explore the importance of FoRB in fostering peace, equality, and social cohesion in Pakistan.

The session was moderated by Aaron Rowan Bob and Shereen Naseem of WPTGF.

Speaking on the occasion, Col. (Retd.) Syed Zafar Uddin Ahmad, CEO of Sigma Motors Ltd., linked religious freedom to economic growth and innovation.

“The spirit of compassion and empathy,” he said, “is what makes us truly human.”

Kiran Peter, Executive Director of WPTGF, who underlined the significance of grassroots-level awareness and the protection of Article 18 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

“True empowerment begins when individuals can freely express their beliefs without fear or discrimination,” she said.

Sophia Garstin, co-facilitator of the training, focused on the need to respect all religions and to avoid hate speech especially on social media and in everyday conversations.

Throughout the day, participants engaged in a variety of activities including educational film screenings, group discussions, and expert-led sessions.

Zorob Tehreem, WPTGF board Member, spoke on the role of religious tolerance in national peace and security, highlighting how discrimination based on identity creates feelings of exclusion and fear.

Zartasha Niazi, CEO of Action for Impact, addressed the local relevance of FoRB and stressed the role of parents in nurturing acceptance of diversity from a young age.

A key session was delivered by Shugufa Jamal, a veteran development professional, who explored how religious freedom directly empowers women. She emphasized the importance of gender equality in decision-making spaces and encouraged the audience to support women of faith facing challenges.

Participants actively contributed by sharing personal stories and suggesting actionable solutions.

A journalist Zulfiqar Baig noted that Pakistan is home to many religions, which adds a rich cultural color to the nation. He called on citizens to respect all faiths in order to build a more peaceful and secure homeland.

The day concluded with participants presenting a “Plan of Action”, sharing creative ideas for community engagement and advocacy for religious freedom. A graduation ceremony followed, with certificates distributed to all attendees.

Zorob closed the event with heartfelt remarks, appreciating the commitment and enthusiasm shown by the participants.

The training served as a powerful reminder of the role education and dialogue play in building an inclusive society where every belief is respected and every voice is heard.