When I was three years old my left foot was struck by polio. I could barely drag my leg to go to school.

At 34, I am still suffering the effects of the crippling disease, but with determination, hard work and the support of family and friends I could face all challenges.

I wanted to motivate young people to use social media for positive change. So far, my Facebook page, “Quetta Online” brought together 26,000 volunteers advocating for youth empowerment, polio awareness, healthy environment, blood donation and education.

My ambition is to live every moment to the upmost. I completed my Master’s degree in Information Technology and now I work at a well reputed government department, I drive my car and play sports with my three children.

To eradicate polio in Pakistan, the influencers and community elders should work side by side to change the mindset towards child’s vaccination. In our traditional and tribal set-up, they can play their role in convincing parents to vaccinate their children against polio.

Parents should not put their children at the risk of disability by choice; they should fulfil their responsibility by timely vaccination of their children against diseases and offer them a healthy future.

Zia-ur-Rehman
Assistant Director At Government Department
Quetta, Balochistan Province