Success Stories

Saima, a mother of four who working as an Aapi for AHKRC, conducting counseling sessions on health and family planning and selling of family planning products. As she became familiar with the terrain of Dhok Hassu, Saima recognized an opportunity for increasing her earnings through door-to-door selling of products needed in the community. Thus, was the start of her “business-in-a-box.” Having no background or knowledge in entrepreneurship, Saima enrolled in a business development training offered through AHKRC’s Business Hub program. Through the sales techniques learned from her training, Saima was able to successfully sell her goods throughout the community. “I learned a lot from the training and was able to apply the skills to my business. “I am very happy. I can support my family now. She has even expanded the types of products she sells (fashion jewelry, hand bags, clothing, henna cones, etc.)

Kiran, a young woman with basic stitching skills, would not let the stigma of divorce determine her future success. After her divorce, Kiran joined AHKRC’s stitching training course to improve her skills. Through the training Kiran learned new skills like how to stitch men’s shalwar kameez and special necklines and sleeve designs. She was also given guidance and tips on starting a home-based business. At first she started small with a few orders from her neighbors. Currently, Kiran’s home stitching business is flourishing. She takes neighborhood orders and has expanded her business by partnering with tailors in the bazaar near her home who also give her orders. She now earns PKR 15,000-20,000 a month and is able to manage her household and personal expenses with ease.

Akbar, a bright 22-year-old male, he heard about the Apna Rozgar Initiative through a community session and visited our office shortly after. Akbar received professional development counseling, learned how to rewrite his CV, and was given tips on how to apply for a job. The skills he learned from AHKRC’s Apna Rozgar Initiative equipped him to navigate the employment process with more ease and confidence. He applied for a Salesman position and landed the job. “I wouldn’t have known how to find a job and properly apply before visiting AHKRC. Even my CV was not proper and I learned proper interviewing tips as well.” When we called Akbar a few weeks after his placement, he was very happy with his new job. He is earning PKR 16,000 per month and has decided that he wants to further pursue his studies.

Reshma Bibi, joined AHKRC in 2016, as an Aapi in health programme. She wanted to make a difference in the community for young girls and women.  When she Initially joined AHKRC Health programme, she was afraid of stepping out of the house, but over time, she gained confidence. Now, she is actively spreading awareness about maternal and infant health, as well as sensitive subjects such as family planning and contraception in the community. “I now feel that I have a purpose in life. My aim is to support and empower the women of Dhok Hassu. Life of women is not easy in Dhok Hassu. Over the years I have witnessed stories of neglect, abuse, violence and inequality, exacerbated by poverty, illiteracy, and patriarchy. Had not been I joined AHKRC health team, I would never have stepped out of my home and would not have had a chance to interact with women and communities. This experience has changed my life.”

Kiran, a young woman with basic stitching skills, would not let the stigma of divorce determine her future success. After her divorce, Kiran joined AHKRC’s stitching training course to improve her skills. Through the training Kiran learned new skills like how to stitch men’s shalwar kameez and special necklines and sleeve designs. She was also given guidance and tips on starting a home-based business. At first she started small with a few orders from her neighbors. Currently, Kiran’s home stitching business is flourishing. She takes neighborhood orders and has expanded her business by partnering with tailors in the bazaar near her home who also give her orders. She now earns PKR 15,000-20,000 a month and is able to manage her household and personal expenses with ease.