A Young Star from Zahri, Khuzdar – A 15-Year-Old Baloch Zunaira Qayoom Steps Onto the World Stage
From the barren expanses of Balochistan to the clement corridors of the United Nations in New York, Zunaira Qayoom life is nothing less than remarkable. At a mere 15 years of age, this spirited teenager from Zahri, Khuzdar has not only borne the aspirations of her people but has also become an icon of valour and strength. Speaking for Pakistan as one of only 12 international youth delegates at the UNICEF Youth Advocates Mobilization Lab 2025, Zunaira demonstrated that the smallest voices can speak the loudest.
Taking Balochistan’s Story to the World
For most Balochistan is a land of contrasts—a land of rich culture, heritage, and natural beauty that is often beset by poverty, lack of opportunities, and environmental disasters. Zunaira refused to dwell on desperation but on hope and possibility. Her speech at the UN emphasized the need for unity over division, peace over violence, and justice for the environment.
In her address, she reminded world leaders that behind every statistic lies a human story—of children who deserve education, of communities that deserve clean water, and of young people yearning for opportunities to thrive.
The Power of Youth Advocacy
UNICEF Mobilization Lab convenes young changemakers all over the world, but Zunaira’s voice was particularly impactful. She was not only speaking for herself but also for thousands of silenced voices at home.
Her calls for environmental justice resonated with global leaders. Hailing from a country that suffers extreme climate effects, her call for quick action reminded the world that climate change is not something in the future—it’s an immediate reality for her nation.
Resilience and Pride of Balochistan
What’s most incredible about Zunaira’s path is not so much the achievement, but the origin from which she has emerged. From living in Zahri, Khuzdar, she saw firsthand the hardships that her people endure. Rather than allowing those hardships to mute her voice, she used them as fuel for her activism.
Her voice had with it the courage of Baloch women, the resilience of her culture, and the pride of her province. She emerged as the rightful representative of Balochistan to the global community, showing that no obstacle is insurmountable when passion and willpower guide us.
Inspiration to a Generation
Zunaira’s tale is not merely a personal success story—it is an appeal to all young Pakistanis to have faith in the potential of their voice. She has established that there is no age barrier to leadership, and that the youngest of people can make a difference if they dream big enough.
Her story is also a call to policymakers and leaders: youth empowerment investment is not a choice, it is a necessity. When opportunities are provided, voices like Zunaira’s have the capacity to reshape global discourse.
A Message of Hope for Pakistan
At the core of Zunaira’s UN speech was a very simple yet deep conviction—that hope is more powerful than fear, and that unity is more powerful than division. In an era where the world is full of strife and doubt, her message was a strong reminder that the future lies with those who are brave enough to hope.
A Voice That Cannot Be Silenced
Zunaira Qayoom is more than a name, she is a testament to hope, pride, and resilience. Aged 15, she has demonstrated that the youth from even the most underrepresented areas can make it to the global platform and fight for a better tomorrow. She is not only Balochistan’s story—but Pakistan’s tale of survival, harmony, and development.
As she returns from New York, she brings with her not only memories but a new mission: to continue speaking, continue fighting, and continue inspiring. And for Pakistan, her voice is a reminder that the future is bright—because it is in the hands of leaders like her.
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