Trekkers on way to Everest in aid of destitute villagers

Irfan Bostan and Muzzamil Kahn, from Bradford, have signed up for a trek to Base Camp on the world’s highest mountain in aid of Penny Appeal’s Rebuilding Pakistan Appeal, which aims to rebuild the village of Kamar Mashani in the Punjab region.

Countless villages in the region were swept away by the devastating floods that followed the heavy monsoon rains in July 2010, and which killed at least 1,700 people and displaced over six million others.

Irfan, a photographer at Irfan Bostan Studios, has been involved with charities for the past 10 years and gained hands-on experience delivering medical aid to victims of the Kashmir Earthquake in 2005.

He said: “I feel very strongly about helping the needy regardless of race, religion and political allegiances and our trek will raise awareness of those who are suffering. Often we fail to remember that we are humans and we have certain obligations towards our fellow humans. We throw pennies away, forgetting that whilst a penny might not get us anything worthwhile here, somewhere in the world it just might provide a meal for whole family.”

Muzzamil, aged 17 and a student, is the youngest trekker in the team of volunteers with already five years’ experience of charity work.

He said: “I have trekked up many mountains but this challenge will be a tough 17 days. We will be tackled mentally and physically, feet will hurt and ankles will swell. However, it is nothing compared to the agony that the people of Pakistan suffered during the 2010 floods and thousands are still suffering! Please support us.”

Adeem Younis, chairman of UK-based Penny Appeal, said: “The Everest Base Camp trek is all about remembering the plight of the forgotten victims of the Pakistan floods. We’re aiming to raise over £40,000 – enough money to build a small village of two-bedroom houses, as well as to construct wells and distribute much-needed aid packages.”

The charity trek takes place from December 2 to 18.

Irfan has set himself a fundraising target of £4,500 and Muzzamil has set his at £5,000.

Donations at www.justgiving.com/irfanbostan and justgiving.com/MuzzamilKhan.