Islamabad, Feb 24: Faysal Bank Limited (FBL), a leading Islamic bank in Pakistan, has taken a significant step toward promoting inclusivity by partnering with Special Olympics Pakistan (SOP) to host the first-ever Faysal Bank SOP Unified Marathon 2025 in Lahore. The event marks a major milestone in fostering greater acceptance and support for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), bringing together a diverse cross-section of society, including specially-abled individuals, celebrities, government officials, and the general public.
This is the first time Special Olympics Pakistan has extended its flagship marathon to Punjab’s provincial capital, signaling a broader national commitment to inclusivity and diversity. The expansion to Lahore reflects the growing importance of creating platforms that celebrate individuals of all abilities, with Faysal Bank at the forefront as the primary sponsor of this initiative.
Faysal Bank’s President and CEO, Yousaf Hussain, highlighted the significance of the event, stating that Lahore’s dynamic spirit and passion for sports made it the ideal venue for the Unified Marathon. He emphasized the values of perseverance, inclusivity, and teamwork—principles that align closely with the bank’s mission. By supporting such initiatives, Faysal Bank reaffirms its commitment to fostering a more inclusive and empowered society, ensuring that individuals with disabilities are given equal opportunities to participate and thrive.
Chairperson of Special Olympics Pakistan, Ronak Lakhani, expressed her appreciation for Faysal Bank’s unwavering support in bringing the event to Lahore. She underscored the importance of ensuring that inclusivity transcends geographical boundaries and that talent is recognized based on merit and compassion. The overwhelming participation from the Lahore community, she noted, is a testament to Pakistan’s readiness to embrace all its citizens, with plans to expand the event in the coming years.
As part of its corporate social responsibility efforts, Faysal Bank has been a strong advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), aligning with the State Bank of Pakistan’s financial inclusion initiatives for PWDs. Through strategic collaborations with like-minded organizations, the bank continues to champion meaningful platforms that drive social impact and create opportunities for all members of society.
