A writer and a reader joined forces to try and bridge the gaps that are so apparent on Pakistan’s literary front. Sounds like a literary superhero story, right? In Pakistan, there is a lack of publication houses and literary outlets. Asad Shabbir and Kiran Masood, two undergraduate college students, refused to take that sitting down. Utilising modern technology, and with a small team of volunteers, the duo have set out on an journey to revive Pakistan’s lost literary heritage. Listen to their talk to hear about the inspiration behind their mission, why literature is important for our society, and the milestones they have achieved in their efforts towards their dream of a quality publication firm in Pakistan
Asad Shabbir is co-founder ChaiChalk, a junior at LUMS, a TEDx speaker, and a novelist. Having grown up in Turkey, Bulgaria, Iran, and Germany, he came to Pakistan in 2013 to find a nation which has readers but no books. After struggling to be published in Pakistan, and being repeatedly advised to approach Indian publishers, he founded ChaiChalk which is an internet digital media company that aspires to provide publication opportunities to Pakistanis. Using ChaiChalk's influence, the company also led a series of powerful campaigns including #ProfileForPeace and #WhyLoiter.
Kiran Masood is a student at LUMS, and co-founder of ChaiChalk which is a social enterprise that strives to revive Pakistani literary heritage, by harnessing the power of local talent. Currently she is also convening the annual LEAF conference which aims to find solutions to environmental problems. Over the past few years, Kiran has worked extensively with various NGOs which provide education to the underprivileged. Her experience working with different organizations has helped ChaiChalk launch several successful commercial events.
This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at [ Ссылка ]
