Labourer’s Daughter Earns Spot in Pakistan’s U-17 Athletics Squad

APP

Muzaffargarh: In a heartwarming tale of perseverance and talent, Maryam Batool, the daughter of a hardworking female laborer from Muzaffargarh’s riverine belt, has been selected to represent Pakistan at the Under-17 Junior Athletics Championship in Malaysia.

Maryam’s rise from obscurity to the international stage has been nothing short of inspirational. Her journey began through Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s flagship “Khelta Punjab” initiative — a program designed to discover and nurture young sports talent from across the province. It was this very platform that enabled Maryam to step out of the shadows and into the spotlight.

“I thank Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz for launching the ‘Khelta Punjab’ program,” said the young athlete. “It gave a girl from a remote village the opportunity to chase her dreams. Without it, I would have remained unknown, despite my talent.”

Maryam’s achievements speak volumes. After clinching top positions in district, provincial, and national-level competitions, her hard work has earned her a well-deserved place on Pakistan’s junior athletics team. But behind this success story lies a tale of sacrifice and determination.

Her mother, who toils day and night in a local industrial unit to make ends meet, could not contain her pride. “I am just a laborer trying to give my children a better life. Talent isn’t inherited — it’s discovered and honed. Maryam proved this by excelling at every level,” she said with tears of joy.

Despite her daughter’s success, she expressed dismay over the lack of acknowledgement from local authorities. “No one from the district administration, the Deputy Commissioner’s office, or the Sports Department has come forward to appreciate or support my daughter. It hurts that her achievements are being ignored in her own hometown,” she said.

She made a heartfelt appeal to CM Maryam Nawaz, requesting continued support and sponsorship for Maryam. “If given more opportunities and proper guidance, my daughter can bring even greater glory to Pakistan.”

As Maryam prepares to wear the green jersey and represent her nation on the global stage, her story stands as a powerful reminder: talent can emerge from the most unlikely places — all it needs is a chance.