“Don't be satisfied with stories, how things have gone with others. Unfold your own myth.”

                                                                                                                                 ― Rumi

The first issue of Hilal for Her, hit the stands in October, and was extremely well-received. We are overwhelmed by the response we got and the approbation and commendations received. The issue hit just the right notes with its content. Our objectives: of celebrating the role, women of our country have played in its creation, progress and development; educating and inspiring the youth of today about the importance of the role of women in the evolution and advancement of the society and polity, by throwing spotlight on their accomplishments; increasing the awareness, that women have it in them to change the course, not only of their own lives but that of history; and that empowerment is to realize one’s potential and garner support and encouragement to achieve greatness, proved to be in line with the pulse of the society, as demonstrated by the rave reviews we got. It needs mention here, that despite what the name of the magazine might lead one to believe, the target readership comprises both women and men, because the issues that will be highlighted are societal and not limited to any one particular gender.
The second issue is an endeavour to celebrate, educate with inspiration, and increase awareness about the power of women, by highlighting the many achievements of the women of Pakistan. The importance of hard work, determination, passion and the will to rise despite the many hurdles, is the focus of the articles contained in this issue. Major General Nigar Johar Khan’s interview calls attention to hard work, determination and the satisfaction brought by giving back to the society; the article on Samina Baig serves as a reminder that one needs only to find the power within and you can literally scale a mountain; Captain Ayesha Khalique’s account serves as a reminder that a woman could be dealt with the harshest blow possible, by life, and yet she will stand tall and not let it throw her off balance; the stunning record of Pakistan Army Taekwondo Team (Girls) proves that with passion, positive encouragement, support and hard work, women can break stereotypes and reach for the stars. And while we talk of grit and determination, we cannot overlook the courageous women of Kashmir, who are sacrificing their today for a free tomorrow, they might not even witness but which is inevitable. Mushaal Hussein Mullick’s poem is a haunting reminder of how women, weighed down by invisible shackles, and afflicted with immeasurable grief and despair, meted out to them by tyrannical forces, do not shirk from playing their part for their nation.
As 2018 draws to a close, it is heartening to see that the Pakistani society is readier than ever, to evolve and advance by embracing the accomplishments of its women in every field and empowering those who are still in the shadows waiting to realize their potential. And so, we hope to enter 2019 with vision of a future where there will be abundant opportunities and every person, be it man or woman, will be able to grow and be who they want, commensurate with their potential, making use of the talents they are bestowed with, and become productive citizens of this great nation of ours.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.