Women-Led Cultural Dialogue Strengthens Peace and Unity
SCDO committed to sustaining and expanding these initiatives, ensuring women remain central to cultural expression
By Riaz Bhutto
ISLAMABAD: Gulnaz Shaikh, Founder & CEO of the Soormiyun Cultural & Development Organization (SCDO), and Shabana Saleem, Director SCDO, emphasized that culture serves as a powerful bridge connecting civilizations through shared identity, values, and messages of peace. They said SCDO’s initiatives are promoting the rich heritage of the Indus Civilization and Sindh’s culture on global platforms, fostering dialogue and unity among diverse societies.
They highlighted that the program focuses on empowering women as cultural ambassadors, strengthening understanding and harmony across communities. “When women lead, cultures connect and peace prevails,” they noted, adding that women’s leadership—rooted in wisdom, inclusivity, and compassion—is essential for harmony in today’s divided world. Investing in women’s leadership, they stressed, is an investment in global peace and cultural unity.
Women from diverse cultural backgrounds—particularly Sindhis from across Pakistan now residing in Islamabad—gathered to celebrate Sindhi Cultural Day at a local hotel. Organized by SCDO, the event saw enthusiastic participation, reflecting Pakistan’s rich multicultural identity.
The event aimed to promote cultural harmony, women’s empowerment, and inclusive community engagement. SCDO ensured a women-centered, accessible, and culturally sensitive environment, implementing zero-harassment protocols, logistical accessibility, and trained volunteer support. By placing women at the heart of the celebration, SCDO reaffirmed its commitment to gender equality, peaceful coexistence, and women’s leadership in cultural and social spaces.
The program featured vibrant cultural performances, including traditional Sindhi songs, folk dances, and poetry recitations, showcasing Sindh’s rich heritage. Traditional Sindhi cuisine added to the warm, communal atmosphere, strengthening cultural pride and mutual appreciation.
Participants emphasized the need for gender-responsive cultural gatherings, noting that women often face limited access to safe public spaces for self-expression and cultural celebration. Such initiatives, they said, enhance emotional well-being, solidarity, and social cohesion.
SCDO reiterated its commitment to sustaining and expanding these initiatives, ensuring women remain central to cultural expression, inclusive development, and peacebuilding across communities.
