The LIFT Foundation Spearheads and Supports Historic World’s First Technology-Assisted Mobility Skills Competition for Visually Impaired Youth
SRINAGAR, August 30, 2026 — (JKNN) In a groundbreaking celebration of independence and resilience, the world’s first Technology-Assisted Mobility Skills Competition for persons with no or very low eyesight was organized today by Shahid Mawhubin, with principal support from The LIFT Foundation, alongside the HELP Foundation.
As the driving force behind the initiative’s success, The LIFT Foundation proudly backed this pioneering event, bringing together individuals with visual impairments to showcase their remarkable autonomy, confidence, and mastery of modern assistive technology. Out of seven registered contestants, five elite participants competed fiercely across the B1 and B2 categories. Representing excellence on the course, participants Shabnam and Maryam delivered standout performances, with Maryam clinching an impressive Second Position in the B1 category after expertly navigating a rigorous 15-barrier trailing course while wearing a blindfold. Winners were awarded smartwatches, certificates, and medals to celebrate their triumph.
Highlighting the profound vision of the organization, Amreen Qadir, Founder and Chairperson of The LIFT Foundation, emphasized the urgent need for systemic change and barrier-free opportunities:
“Persons with visual impairments deserve true, uncompromised inclusivity. Inclusivity should never be treated as an act of charity or sidelined by stigma rather, society must treat every individual with equal respect and dignity, as it is their fundamental and absolute right. Through The LIFT Foundation, we are deeply committed to championing innovations that unlock independence and ensure that assistive technology bridges the gap to a limitless future.”
The event also served as a vital platform for grassroots engagement championed by The LIFT Foundation. Ms. Qadir, alongside Ms. Nighat Shafi Pandit, Founding Chairperson of the HELP Foundation, spent dedicated time interacting directly with the participants. The leaders listened closely to their daily challenges, engaged with their unique perspectives, and laid the groundwork for actionable pathways to bring forward sustainable, long-term solutions.
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