Synergyzer: As a Female Mountaineer, how do you navigate and overcome challenges in a field where males have already established their mark in trekking and mountain climbing?
Sohniya Babar: In today’s modern era, things have changed significantly. Many women, like me, have ventured into various fields. However, our society still doesn’t always accept them as it should. Some people wrongly believe that women lack the strength to handle tough challenges. Life can throw hard times at us, and sometimes, you may have to travel alone and face problems. These experiences can make you even stronger. When you follow your heart and work towards your goals, you can overcome difficulties, even when you’re on your own.
I genuinely believe that nothing can stop you from achieving your dreams if you stay true to your passion and remain focused. It’s essential to demonstrate to everyone that women can excel in any field and handle adversity. So, keep going, and don’t let anyone hold you back. You’ve got the strength to succeed, even when you’re navigating uncharted territory on your own. Traveling alone can be a valuable part of your journey, teaching you valuable lessons and making you even more resilient.
Synergyzer: Being a housewife, what motivated you to venture into the world of trekking and mountain climbing, particularly tackling challenging peaks like Haramosh La?
Sohniya Babar: When I ventured into the mountains, I shed all my roles as a wife, sister, or daughter. In that breathtaking environment, I was simply Sohniya Babar, deeply enamored by the mountains and their beauty. It’s a passion that runs in my veins, a profound love for my beloved country, Pakistan’s mountains and their exquisite natural allure. I longed to connect with nature in the most intimate way possible. The call of the mountains, particularly the challenge of peaks like Haramosh La, was irresistible to me. It represented an opportunity to test my limits to discover the depths of my own courage and determination. Each step I took up those rugged paths was a step towards self-discovery and an exploration of my capabilities.
Moreover, I believe that my journey could inspire other women, especially those in similar roles as homemakers, to break free from societal expectations and explore their own passions and potential. Mountains teach us that we can overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles with perseverance and resilience. So, my motivation was not only personal but also driven by a desire to encourage and empower others to embrace their dreams, conquer their fears, and find their own unique paths of self-discovery in the majestic embrace of nature’s wonders.
Synergyzer: What inspired you to break traditional gender roles and pursue such physically demanding and adventurous activities?
Sohniya Babar: In today’s world, women are no longer lagging behind in any aspect of life; they’re competing with and standing alongside men in every sector. Look at any industry, and you’ll find women actively participating. Fortunately, nowadays, women are proudly standing shoulder to shoulder with their male counterparts in various fields. Therefore, pursuing activities like trekking is a natural progression. In fact, there are many female trekkers who excel far beyond my own abilities.
Synergyzer: How do you see your journey and accomplishments impacting the perception of women’s roles in both domestic life and outdoor adventure?
Sohniya Babar: Fulfilling one’s dreams and pursuing one’s passions are essential aspects of life. I believe that when a woman is content with her own pursuits and passions, it positively reflects on her home life as well. When women are encouraged and supported to chase their dreams, it not only enhances their personal growth but also benefits the overall harmony of the household. In terms of outdoor adventures, my journey signifies that women are just as capable as men when it comes to embracing physically demanding challenges. By breaking traditional stereotypes and venturing into outdoor pursuits, we show that there are no gender boundaries when it comes to exploring the world and achieving remarkable feats.
Through my journey, I hope to inspire more women to step out of their comfort zones, follow their aspirations, and challenge societal norms. In doing so, we can collectively reshape the perceptions of women’s roles, fostering a more inclusive society where women are celebrated for their achievements, both in their homes and in the great outdoors.
Synergyzer: How do you see your achievements contributing to the broader conversation about women’s empowerment and breaking barriers in non-traditional fields?
Sohniya Babar: Witnessing the women around me inspired by my journey is truly heartening. It’s immensely gratifying to see them following in my footsteps, exploring our country’s lesser-known corners, and venturing to places they hadn’t even heard of before. Many people come across my photos and videos and then reach out to me with questions about how they can embark on similar journeys. I gladly offer guidance on where to start, where to go, and what gear they might need.
I firmly believe that age is just a number and maturity is a choice. No matter your age, you can pursue your passions and hobbies with unwavering determination. Whether it’s in a professional field or a personal interest, giving your absolute best effort can propel you toward success. My hope is that my experiences continue to inspire women to step out of their comfort zones, break societal norms, and pursue their dreams, demonstrating that they, too, can stand tall as champions in any field they choose.
Synergyzer: What impact do you hope your journey will have on inspiring other women, whether they’re housewives or from various walks of life, to pursue their dreams fearlessly?
Sohniya Babar: I hope my journey serves as a testament to the idea that anyone, irrespective of their background, can pursue their dreams with unwavering determination. It’s vital for women, including housewives, to understand that life is a precious chance, and embracing it fully means breaking free from societal constraints to achieve their aspirations boldly and fearlessly.