Naila Kiani: Conquering Heights, Inspiring a Nation

On May 24, 2025, the summit of Kanchenjunga witnessed history. As Pakistan’s green and white flag danced in the Himalayan wind, Naila Kiani stood tall at 8,586 meters — becoming the first Pakistani woman to climb 12 of the world’s 14 highest mountains. This wasn’t just another mountaineering milestone. It was a message to the world: Pakistani women can break limits, rewrite narratives, and lead with strength.

Naila Kiani’s story is one of bold ambition and deep purpose. She is not only a mountaineer, but also an aerospace engineer, investment banker, entrepreneur, and mother of two. Based in the UAE but forever connected to her roots, Naila started her climbing journey in 2021 with Gasherbrum II. In just four years, she has summited iconic peaks like K2, Everest, Annapurna, Lhotse, Makalu, and now Kanchenjunga. Her progress has been rapid, fearless, and deeply inspiring.

What sets Naila apart is not just her ability to scale dangerous peaks, but her mission-driven approach. After the tragic loss of Pakistani porter Muhammad Hassan Shigri on K2, she became a leading voice for porter safety and rights. She actively campaigns for better working conditions, fair recognition, and sustainable climbing practices. Her advocacy reflects a sense of responsibility that goes beyond personal glory.

Naila’s mountaineering journey is also powered by visionary support. The BARD Foundation has played a pivotal role in backing her expeditions. As Mehreen Dawood of BARD stated, “Naila represents the resilience and courage we strive to nurture. Her victories are national victories.” Abdul Razak Dawood, President of the Foundation, added, “Her integrity and vision embody the values Pakistan needs to move forward.”

Another significant motivator in her journey was Dr. Asma Afzal Shami, former Chairperson of the Pakistan Golf Federation’s Women Wing. It was Dr. Shami who encouraged Naila to climb Everest after her K2 summit. That powerful push helped Naila embrace her next challenge with confidence — proving how mentorship can change lives.

Now, with only two eight-thousanders remaining — Shishapangma and Dhaulagiri — Naila is closer than ever to completing the legendary 14-peak challenge. If successful, she will join just 17 women worldwide to have completed it and possibly become the fastest Pakistani to do so.

But Naila’s mission doesn’t end at the summit. She continues to inspire future climbers, advocate for mountain communities, and represent Pakistan on global platforms. Her story is a symbol of what passion, purpose, and perseverance can achieve — especially for women in countries where opportunities are limited.

In her own words, “I am proud and I am grateful, but the journey is far from over. Pakistan, this is for you.”

Naila Kiani is more than a climber. She is a national icon, a changemaker, and a symbol of hope for dreamers everywhere.