NASIM ESHQI
Alpinist & Activist & Mental Coach and Speaker
Rock Climber, Public Speaker and Advocate for Freedom and Women’s Rights
Not Just a Climber: The Woman Behind the Wall
Born in 1982 in Iran, Nasim Eshqi is a world-renowned rock climber. With over 20 years of experience and more than 100 first ascents across Iran, Europe, and Asia, her mission extends far beyond the rock. Nasim is also an outspoken advocate for women’s rights, and uses movement, resilience, and freedom to empower and inspire others.
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Early Life & Kickboxing
Nasim’s journey began with a deep passion for sport. As a ten-time national kickboxing champion, she reached the peak of her career before facing an impossible choice: comply with Iran’s mandatory hijab law or forfeit the sport she loved. Refusing to surrender her autonomy ended her competitive career, a devastating loss that shattered her dreams.
​​Trading Rings for Ropes
By chance, Nasim discovered rock climbing: a realm where nature, not society, sets the rules. In the mountains, she found true freedom and equality. Each ascent strengthened her confidence, power, and resilience, both physically and mentally.
Freedom Found on the Face of a Wall
In a country where gender apartheid and tradition limit women’s access to outdoor sports and public life, Nasim became a symbol of resistance. Fueled by her free spirit and bond with nature, she broke barriers, carving a path to freedom for herself and others. Her unwavering dedication has made her one of the world’s most inspiring climbers and route openers.
When Climbing Becomes a Revolution
Nasim’s mission transcends personal achievement. She uses her platform to empower others, especially young women, to break free from the limitations that bind them. Boldly merging activism with athleticism, she amplifies the voices of those silenced by oppression.
Nasim’s resistance has come at great personal cost. She has been arrested multiple times for climbing without a hijab or training with male friends. Her story was captured in the award-winning documentary Climbing Iran (2020), highlighting the risks she faces and the powerful message she carries.
In 2022, Nasim became a strong voice in Iran’s “Women, Life, Freedom” movement — a powerful uprising for equality and freedom. Her defiance led to exile, yet her voice continues to grow stronger, even as she remains unable to return to Iran.
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Stories Etched in Stone, One Cliff at a Time
In 2024, Nasim released her autobiography I Was a Rock, Now I Am a Mountain, a powerful narrative connecting her personal transformation to the global fight for women’s rights. Through speaking engagements, mentorship, and media, she continues to inspire others to rise and speak out.
For Nasim, every summit is more than just a climb, it’s a stand for justice and freedom. She believes true strength isn’t defined by power, speed, or records, but by how we use our victories to challenge injustice and amplify voices that must be heard.
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Call to Action:
Freedom Isn’t a Solo Climb, We Reach the Summit Together
Stay connected with Nasim’s journey. Follow her on social media, support her cause, and join the fight for equality and freedom. Together, we can amplify the voices that need to be heard.