Karachi, Pakistan,September, 2024 : The Indus Hospital & Health Network’s (IHHN) youth empowerment initiative, Meer e Karwan Tum Ho,
has once again galvanized Pakistan’s youth in its mission to drive positive societal change. This year,
under the theme “Unfiltered Truth: The Real Cost of Nicotine,” the National Youth Conference tackled
one of the most urgent public health challenges: the rise of novel tobacco products, including e-
cigarettes, vapes, and nicotine patches.
This year’s conference, initiated by VAT, brought together an inspiring mix of youth leaders,
policymakers, and community advocates, all united in their aim to raise awareness about the dangers of
nicotine use. Through a dynamic series of discussions, expert panels, and engaging sessions, participants
explored the intersections of youth empowerment, public health advocacy, and social responsibility.
The event commenced with a powerful keynote address by Mr. Anees Ahmed, Consultant for the
Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids (CTFK). His address underscored the need for immediate action and
youth involvement to halt the growing nicotine epidemic, particularly among young adults.
The conference’s first panel, titled “Social Media and the Evolution of New Nicotine Products,” delved
into the role that online platforms play in glamorizing harmful products and shaping youth perceptions.
Experts discussed the need for stricter regulations to curb the spread of misleading content.
A key highlight of the day was an interactive session led by Team Muhafiz creator, Mr. Imran Azhar. He
presented the animated episode “Zeher,” which portrays young heroes battling a local drug mafia to
protect their community from the dangers of addiction. This powerful narrative resonated deeply with
the audience, emphasizing the role of youth in challenging social injustices and advocating for change.
The dialogue continued with a thought-provoking panel titled “Chicken or Egg? Tobacco and Mental
Health,” which explored the complex link between nicotine use and mental well-being. The session
sparked critical discussions on whether nicotine addiction fuels mental health issues or vice versa.
One of the most inspiring moments of the day was the Volunteer Award Ceremony, where the
unwavering dedication of young individuals working to create tobacco-free communities was
recognized. Their grassroots efforts have been pivotal in raising awareness and pushing for healthier
lifestyles in their localities. These youth champions were honored for their contributions to combating
the nicotine crisis.
The conference also provided an overview of the Voices Against Tobacco campaign, a youth-led
initiative that amplifies the fight against tobacco by educating communities about the hazards of new
nicotine products. This segment highlighted the importance of collective advocacy and underscored how
youth voices can drive powerful change in public health policies.
The day also featured a Debate Competition where participants engaged in lively discussions on the
implications of nicotine use and regulatory policies. The debate offered a platform for young voices to
express their views, challenge each other’s perspectives, and promote critical thinking about the role of
youth in public health advocacy.
In his address, Chairman of the Board, Indus Hospital & Health Network, Mr. Abdul Karim Paracha,
praised the youth for their proactive role in shaping policies for a healthier future. Dr. Abdul Bari,
President of IHHN, concluded the conference with a call to action, reaffirming IHHN’s steadfast
commitment to empowering youth to create lasting impact and to building a smoke-free Pakistan.
Executive Director, Physical Rehabilitation Directorate, IHHN, Dr. Muhammad Amin Chinoy, Executive
Director, Medical Services, IHHN, Dr. Muhammad Shamvil Ashraf, Celebrity Ambassador Mr. Behroz
Sabzwari and Sania Saeed were also present at the conference.
Meer e Karwan Tum Ho continues to inspire a new generation of leaders, proving that when young
minds unite, they can challenge the status quo and ignite meaningful, lasting change. This year’s
conference was not just a gathering—it was a movement, a platform for youth to voice their concerns
and take actionable steps towards a healthier, tobacco-free future.
About Voices Against Tobacco
In response to the urgent need for tobacco control in Pakistan, IHHN launched the Voices Against
Tobacco (VAT) program in 2021 to foster dialogue and create meaningful change to improve tobacco
control measures in the country. Since its inception, VAT has worked across Sindh and Punjab to engage
youth in promoting positive cultural shifts within their communities, empowering them to take
ownership of their health and future. In collaboration with the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids (CTFK),
VAT is now focusing on investing in marginalized communities with limited access to information and
resources.
