Cycling through barriers: how a bicycle helped me find community with other girls in Pakistan

“my journey of riding a bicycle through barriers was a testament to the transformative power of determination and education” (Photo courtesy of Bedari, an organization working to empower women and girls in Pakistan)

14-year-old Dilawaiz writes about how the gift of a bicycle from Bedari —an organisation supported by Malala Fund — led her on a transformative journey of resilience and empowerment.

I’m a student, full of curiosity and dreams. My life took an unexpected turn when Bedari, an organization dedicated to protecting the rights of girls and women, gifted me a shiny new bicycle. This generous gesture not only injected a burst of excitement into my routine but also brought positive changes to my family.

Every morning, I would gather my younger siblings, Ayan and Farah, with a bubbling enthusiasm that went beyond just heading to school. The bicycle was more than just a mode of transportation – it symbolized hope and resilience. With my backpack slung over my shoulders and my siblings giggling behind me, I pedaled through the narrow pathways of our village, the cool morning breeze ruffling my hair. The sense of freedom beneath my wheels gave me a fresh surge of energy, which I carried into my classes.

Yet, my responsibilities extended beyond the classroom. After school, I would eagerly return home, ready to assist my mother in any way possible. The local market became a familiar place where my mother and I handpicked the freshest vegetables for our family. I took it upon myself to learn about various vegetables, their nutritional benefits, and the art of choosing the best ones. This initiative not only lightened my mother's burden but also showcased my dedication to learning beyond textbooks.

One of my daily rituals involved filling bottles with water from our family's filter and securely attaching them to my bicycle. This small act ensured that my family had access to clean and refreshing water all day long. It wasn't just practical; it was my way of expressing care for my family's well-being.

(Photo courtesy of Bedari, an organization working to empower women and girls in Pakistan)

Through my involvement in household chores, I learned invaluable life skills that extended far beyond the confines of a school syllabus. I understood the significance of managing time, working together as a team, and providing unwavering support to my family. My efforts shone a light on the potential for change that could be achieved when communities collaborated to uplift the lives of young individuals like me.

In Pakistan, where I live, there are cultural barriers that limit what girls can do. For example, girls are often expected to prioritize household chores over education, and there's sometimes pressure to get married at a young age instead of pursuing their own dreams. While there were still occasional murmurs of disapproval, the majority came to view me as a trailblazer challenging gender stereotypes and championing education through unconventional means. As my determination to overcome cultural barriers became evident, I gained respect for my perseverance.

“While there were still occasional murmurs of disapproval, the majority came to view me as a trailblazer challenging gender stereotypes and championing education through unconventional means. As my determination to overcome cultural barriers became evident, I gained respect for my perseverance.”

— Dilawaiz

In the end, my journey of riding a bicycle through barriers was a testament to the transformative power of determination and education. I hope that by paving the way, I've inspired other girls to believe in their dreams and recognize that positive change can coexist with cultural traditions.