In an effort to turn YMCA into a place for families, it has, for the first time since it was established in 1879, started exclusively for women a gymnasium. The inaugural ceremony was performed the other day at the YMCA by Mrs. Rina Nadeem Kamran, wife of the Bishop of Lahore, Rt. Rev. Nadeem Kamran.
Asia Pacific Female Weight Lifting Champions Twinkle Sohail, Cybil Sohail, and Veronica Sohail, who are also YMCA brand ambassadors, were also present. President Lahore YMCA, Mr. Asghar Suleman, welcomed the guests. General Secretary YMCA Emanuel Sarfraz briefed as to why the gymnasium was started by YMCA.
“A gym for ladies might be an ordinary thing in the West. But here in Pakistan, this step by the YMCA is not less than a revolution. YMCA was recognized as one of the best NGOs for children of all backgrounds and religions by the Punjab Government in 2022. The YMCA is now a place for families. It continues to play its role in the empowerment of women and youth,” he explained.
The ladies gymnasium, called Sarah's, will remain open for YMCA members and their families six days a week. It is pertinent to mention here that the place where YMCA opened the gym was vacated from illegal occupation in 2022.