Nasim Eshqi is not only one of the world\u2019s top climbers \u2014 she\u2019s a powerful voice for justice, freedom, and women\u2019s rights. Born in Iran and now living in exile, Nasim has turned her passion for climbing into a global platform for human rights. With over 100 new routes opened worldwide and her project \u201cWhen the Mountains Speak\u201d, she uses the mountains to echo the voices of those who cannot speak freely. We spoke with Nasim about her journey, her mission, and the message she wants every climber to hear.<\/p>\n
Nasim, thanks for taking the time to talk to us. Can you tell us how your journey from kickboxing to climbing began?<\/strong>
\nI was a professional kickboxer in Iran, and I loved the sport. But when I tried to compete internationally, the dress code for women \u2014 wearing a hijab (full covering) \u2014 prevented me from representing myself or my country freely. I refused to be a symbol of something, an ideology I didn\u2019t believe in. That cost me my career. But it also gave me a new direction. Climbing became my freedom. No ring, no referee \u2014 just the rock and me.<\/p>\n