By: Shehneela Mazhar
In the vibrant tapestry of Pakistan’s diverse society, Saman Nazir, a Fulbright Ph.D. alumna from 2015, took on a mission of working on a much-need area of religious tolerance and peace under the head of “Pakistan for All” initiative, supported by the Alumni Small Grant (ASG). With an unwavering dedication to fostering coexistence and religious tolerance, Saman’s project sought to illuminate the path towards a more harmonious Pakistani society, where respect and compassion reign supreme.
Saman Nazir’s professional journey resonates with a commitment to bridging gaps and challenging societal norms. With a background as a Fulbright Ph.D. alumna and a researcher at the Pakistan Institute of Development Economics, Saman’s expertise in Development Economics and her role as an educator in the fields of Development Studies and Public Policy uniquely position her to tackle complex social issues. Her experience isn’t confined to academia alone; she has successfully ventured into art-based projects that delve into topics as profound as child rights from a justice lens. This interdisciplinary approach not only enriches her ability to communicate complex ideas effectively but also speaks to her dedication to fostering positive change through creative and intellectual endeavors.
At the heart of the initiative lay a series of captivating whiteboard animations, created with a delicate balance of entertainment and subtlety. These animations gracefully traversed the spectrum of religious understanding, from introducing the concept of religion to exploring the beauty of religious diversity and culminating in the crucial theme of religious tolerance. The animations, lovingly crafted, found their home on a YouTube channel, accessible to all as a free educational resource.
In a nation as religiously diverse as Pakistan, the need for fostering coexistence and religious tolerance cannot be overstated. Saman Nazir’s “Pakistan for All” initiative emerged from a deep-seated concern for the rights and beliefs of all citizens. Recognizing the challenges posed by structural loopholes, biases, and polarization, the project sought to address these issues head-on by creating a resource that promotes understanding, respect, and compassion among various religious groups. By initiating conversations around this sensitive topic, Saman aimed to contribute to a more inclusive and peaceful society, where differences are celebrated rather than contested.
Yet, behind this success were challenges that required creativity and perseverance to overcome. Saman faced the complex task of simplifying intricate concepts like religion, diversity, and tolerance for both children and adults. This hurdle prompted numerous script revisions and reviews to capture the essence of these profound ideas in a manner that resonated with the hearts and minds of the diverse audience.
With a touch of patience and innovation, Saman and her team designed animations that captivated the imagination of thousands. The project reached a total of 20,000 direct beneficiaries and an additional 10,000 indirect beneficiaries, fostering understanding and empathy among children and adults alike. Furthermore, the project’s impact rippled through the online realm, inspiring conversations and reflections on religious coexistence.
As the animations lit up screens across the country, heartwarming feedback emerged from the beneficiaries themselves.
Saman’s collaboration with the U.S. Mission and the Pakistan-U.S. Alumni Network (PUAN) flowed seamlessly, further propelling the project’s success. With transparent and logical support, the initiative’s execution was a testament to what can be achieved through collaborative efforts.
Saman Nazir’s journey, etched through animations that breathe life into complex ideas, remains a beacon of hope and understanding. As her story unfolds online, the animations continue to touch hearts, ignite conversations, and inspire a brighter future for a diverse and united Pakistan. You can explore the project’s impact through the animations on their YouTube channel:
