ISLAMABAD: At just 15 years old, Selena Khawaja has already climbed higher than most people ever will.
Known as Pakistan’s “Mountain Princess,” Selena has become a symbol of courage, focus, and determination. Now, she is preparing for her next big climb: Gasherbrum II, one of the world’s 14 tallest mountains standing above 8,000 metres.
If all goes well this season, she hopes to take on more summits back-to-back and complete all 14 within the next two years.
“It’s a big dream,” she admits, “but I’m ready to give it everything.”
From Miranjani to mingling with giants
Selena began climbing when she was just six years old. Her first peak was Miranjani, a modest 3,000-metre mountain in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. From there, her passion grew quickly.
By age 10, she had become the youngest person in the world to summit Spantik (7,027 m). She has also climbed Quz Sar (5,765 m), Makra (3,885 m), and Mingli Sar (6,050 m).
Her climb to Broad Peak at age 12 made international headlines. While she did not reach the summit that time, she went as high as 7,000 metres—an extraordinary feat.
Last year, she and her father attempted Nanga Parbat, reaching around 7,525 m before deciding to turn back due to inclament conditions.
“I’m always learning something new on every climb,” she says. “It’s not just about reaching the top—it’s about understanding your limits, staying safe, and growing as a mountaineer.”
Gearing up for G2
This summer, Selena has her sights set on Gasherbrum II (G2), the 13th highest mountain in the world at 8,035 metres. The plan is to climb G2 first and then consider a second summit in the same season.
But it’s not just altitude or terrain that stands in her way—it is funding.
“We’re facing some issues with finances and logistics,” Selena explains. “The biggest challenge in my career so far has been finding sponsorship and the right support. There are very few opportunities for sponsorships in this field, and the government has never helped, even though these climbs could bring world records to Pakistan.”
Despite the setbacks, she remains hopeful. With the support of her father, who doubles as her climbing partner, trainer, and nutritionist, she pushes forward with determination.
Balancing books and basecamps
Selena is currently in her final year of O Levels, juggling school and summit attempts with surprising ease. For her, mountaineering remains the top priority, especially during climbing season.
“A month or two before a climb, I start skipping some school for training,” she says honestly. “It’s a bit trickier now, but I divide my subjects and try to keep up with my syllabus.”
While many teenagers worry about exams or social media trends, Selena is focused on weather forecasts, gear checks, and fitness training. Yet, she doesn’t feel left out. “My friends are always cheering me on,” she smiles. “They have my back whenever someone tries to demotivate me.”
Her father, her guide
Selena’s journey has been a family effort. Her father, a fitness expert, shares her passion for mountaineering. They started climbing at the same time and have summited every peak together.
“My papa is my trainer, nutritionist, climbing partner, and my biggest supporter,” she says proudly. “We train together, climb together, and make decisions together. I couldn’t have done any of this without him.”
Their bond is central to her story, both in the mountains and in life. Whether they are hiking through snowstorms or sitting at basecamp discussing the next move, their trust in each other runs deep.
Looking ahead, Selena does not just want to set records. She wants to inspire others, especially young girls in Pakistan, to chase their dreams, no matter how high.
As she prepares for Gasherbrum II, one thing is clear—Selena Khawaja is not just climbing mountains. She is also lifting a nation’s hopes, one peak at a time.
