Unplugged 2025: Youth voices, leaders unite for mental health

Pakistan’s only youth-led concert for mental health brings together students from AKU, IBA, and IVS for an evening of music, connection, and hope.

More than 450 students, educators, healthcare professionals, artists and civil society leaders gathered at Aga Khan University (AKU) on Saturday for Unplugged 2025 – Ab Chup Nahin (Silent No More), a youth-led concert placing the spotlight on mental health in Pakistan.

Organised by Synapse Pakistan Neuroscience Institute and hosted by the AKU Brain and Mind Institute (AKU-BMI) in collaboration with the Institute of Business Administration (IBA) Karachi and the Indus Valley School of Art and Architecture (IVS), the event is, as far as the organisers know, the only annual concert series in the world established by youth for youth mental-health awareness.

Led by renowned musician and music therapist Asif Sinan, a live band of seasoned performers shared the stage with young singers aged 14–26, taking the audience on a cross-generational journey through classics and contemporary hits. 

From Mujhse Pehle Si Mohabbat and Aitebaar to Pasoori and Uptown Funk—with Hotel California and Rolling in the Deep echoing alongside Tajdar-e-Haram, Khamaaj and Laal Meri Pat—the setlist underscored music’s power to transcend barriers and “break the silence” around youth mental health.

“Over 60% of our population is under the age of thirty, and a quarter of them are suffering from mental health distress,” said Dr Ayesha Mian, Founder and CEO of Synapse. “Our young people are ready to lead the conversation on mental health — we just needed to give them the platform. Unplugged is about breaking the silence and building a movement rooted in empathy, creativity, and connection.”

Now in its third year, Unplugged has evolved into a collaborative national platform combining live music, art and storytelling to raise awareness of mental health and well-being. 

This year featured student performers, interactive art installations by IVS faculty and students, and participation from youth connected to partner NGOs including The Citizens Foundation (TCF), Network of Organisations Working For People With Disabilities Pakistan (NOWPDP), Kiran Foundation, Parents’ Voice Association – Ujala Centre, Durbeen, and Teach for Pakistan.

Backed by media partner Geo News and leading sponsors, Getz Pharma, Seventh Sky Entertainment, Team A Ventures, JS Bank, Hilton Pharma, National Foods, and Allure Beauty, the 2025 edition emphasised that mental health is a shared duty.

“Youth mental health ke liye — Ab Chup Nahin (For Youth Mental Health—No Longer Silent). We’re here to keep the conversation going, louder and stronger,” Mian added.