In times of crisis, real heroes emerge, standing up for the oppressed and championing justice, equality, and well-being. One such hero is tennis legend Aisam ul Haq Qureshi, who, in collaboration with the Rizq team, embarked on a remarkable journey to make a difference in the lives of those who had lost their livelihoods due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The journey began with Aisam ul Haq Qureshi and the Rizq team personally distributing rations to those affected by the pandemic. Their efforts were not only a beacon of hope but also a call to action for all of us to support their cause. They urged us to join them in their mission to combat hunger and keep the movement alive.
Menu Seasons, recognizing the importance of their cause donated a generous amount of PKR 500,000 by successfully bidding for Aisam ul Haq’s prized racquet from the ATP Tour 2017. This contribution marked a significant step forward in their mission. Together, Aisam ul Haq Qureshi and Rizq initiated the #StarsAgainstHunger movement, a campaign that rallied national and global superstars to donate their signed memorabilia. These valuable items were to be auctioned, with the proceeds dedicated to feeding families affected by COVID-19 across Pakistan. The movement garnered tremendous support, thanks to the generosity of individuals and organizations like Menu Seasons. Aisam ul Haq Qureshi took a hands-on approach, personally leading ration distribution efforts and collaborating with partners like Stop War, Start Tennis and Shiza Hassan to donate 1,000 rations. Their collective efforts brought them closer to their goal of distributing 10,000 rations, with 3,300 rations already collected. Aisam ul Haq’s dedication and leadership didn’t go unnoticed. Team Rizq honored him for his unwavering support by presenting him with the signature Rizq calligraphy. Aisam ul Haq shared his experience of working with Rizq, praising the team’s dedication and motivation.
The success of the #StarsAgainstHunger campaign was celebrated as it made a significant impact during the peak of the pandemic. Aisam ul Haq Qureshi, through his organization Stop War, Start Tennis, collaborated with Rizq to initiate an auction campaign that raised funds to support families in distress. Renowned athletes such as Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic generously donated memorabilia that was auctioned in Pakistan, generating funds for this noble cause. As the fragility of our current systems became increasingly apparent, Aisam ul Haq Qureshi and Rizq recognized the need for a new thought and system that places humanity at the center. They launched the IAMPAKISTAN-Rizq Future Generation Program, aimed at developing a renewed focus among the upcoming generation on becoming aware, real, true, and humane. The inaugural class of Rizq Youth Leaders Fellowship was inducted as part of this program, setting the stage for a more compassionate and aware generation.
In a world where ambition, greed, and apathy have often overshadowed the values of justice and equality, Aisam ul Haq Qureshi and Rizq have shown us that heroes still walk among us. Their commitment to making a positive impact and feeding the movement for a #HungerFreePakistan serves as an inspiring example of what can be achieved when individuals and organizations come together to create change.
