Ikbal Video: A True Story of Courage and Resilience

A young girl's fight for her dreams in the face of adversity

Ikbal Masih, a Pakistani girl who fought against bonded labor

Ikbal Masih was born into a poor family in Pakistan. Her parents were forced to sell her into bonded labor to pay off a debt. Ikbal was forced to work long hours in a carpet factory, often beaten and abused. Despite the hardships she faced, Ikbal never gave up hope. She dreamed of a better life for herself and her family. Ikbal's story came to the attention of Ehsan Ullah Khan, a Pakistani human rights activist. Khan helped Ikbal escape from the carpet factory and enroll in school. Ikbal quickly became a top student and began speaking out against bonded labor. She spoke at international conferences and met with world leaders, including former US President Bill Clinton. Ikbal's work helped to raise awareness of the issue of bonded labor and led to the passage of laws against it in Pakistan. She became a symbol of hope for children around the world who are forced to work. Tragically, Ikbal was assassinated in 1995 by a carpet factory owner. She was only 12 years old. Ikbal's legacy lives on through the many organizations that she helped to inspire. The Iqbal Masih Foundation works to end bonded labor and provide education for children in Pakistan. The Ikbal Masih Award is given annually to individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the fight against child labor. Ikbal Masih was a true hero who fought for the rights of children. Her story is an inspiration to us all.