“The Stares Won’t Stop Me – My Journey of Courage”

Be Bold, Be Brave – A Message to My Sisters 💪🌸

“Bold women build brave generations.”

Living in Peshawar, Pakistan, I have grown up noticing something that makes me sad and uncomfortable: the way men stare at women. Their gaze is often full of lust, as if they have never seen a woman in their life forgetting that they themselves have mothers, sisters, and daughters at home.
I cover myself completely: I wear shalwar kameez, a big chaddar, and even a mask when I go to my university. Yet still, the stares do not stop. They pierce through you in public spaces, making you feel judged and unsafe.

✨ My Experiences

Twice I faced direct encounters:
Once, a man slowed his car beside me and asked if I wanted a lift in a bad, inappropriate way. I ignored him and kept walking, but the incident stayed in my heart.

Another time, near my own street, a boy stopped his car and shamelessly asked for my number.
Both times, I felt hurt, but I did not let it break me. I shared it with my family, and I am grateful because they stood with me. They told me:
👉 “Go study, travel, don’t be afraid. Learn self-defense, be strong, and get educated.”

Their support gave me courage.

✨ My Message to Other Women

Sisters, I want to tell you something very important: do not let such people stop you from living your life. These men want to make us afraid, to lock us inside our homes, but we cannot give them that power.

Step outside with boldness.

Get educated.

Learn to defend yourself.

Be independent.

Because the women who are brave today will make the future brighter for the next generation of girls. 🌸

We are not weak. We are not voiceless. We are strong, and together, we can change how society looks at us.
💖 To every woman reading this: Be bold, be brave, and never let anyone dim your light.