Nasim Eshqi: Climbing for Freedom

Nasim Eshqi is not only one of the world’s top climbers — she’s a powerful voice for justice, freedom, and women’s 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 “When the Mountains Speak”, 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.

Nasim, thanks for taking the time to talk to us. Can you tell us how your journey from kickboxing to climbing began?
I was a professional kickboxer in Iran, and I loved the sport. But when I tried to compete internationally, the dress code for women — wearing a hijab (full covering) — prevented me from representing myself or my country freely. I refused to be a symbol of something, an ideology I didn’t believe in. That cost me my career. But it also gave me a new direction. Climbing became my freedom. No ring, no referee — just the rock and me.

You’ve opened more than 100 routes worldwide. What keeps you going?
Climbing is not just a sport for me. It’s expression. It’s protest. Every route I open is a voice—especially for those who don’t have one. Through my project “When the Mountains Speak”, I dedicate climbs to human rights movements—especially women’s rights, which are fundamental for a healthy society. In the last two years, I’ve opened routes named “Rise Up for Human Rights” and “Women-Life-Freedom”. The next one will speak for the children who are forced into marriage. These are not just names—they are cries for justice.

What is your message to our readers and the climbing community?
Don’t take your freedom for granted. Use your privilege and your voice. Use your platform. Climbing is powerful—but what you stand for while you climb is even more powerful. The mountains have taught me that it’s not about how much power you possess—what truly matters is what you stand for with that power. We are all part of the same rope team in this world.

You can support Nasim’s mission and help her continue opening routes for human rights through her GoFundMe campaign. Stand with her as she climbs for justice, freedom, and the next generation.

“When the mountains speak, the world must listen.” – Nasim Eshqi