Women’s economic independence: Nahal’s story
For Nahal, the path to independence was shaped by hardship, perseverance, and an unwavering desire to support her family.
Growing up in a low-income household, Nahal was one of six children in a family where financial insecurity was a constant reality. Her father worked as a helper at the local mosque, earning just enough to survive, while her mother managed the home. There were times when the family struggled to afford even basic meals.
From a young age, Nahal was drawn to creativity. Without access to digital tools, she sought out learning wherever she could, taking affordable craft lessons from a neighbour and later teaching herself through online tutorials once her family could afford a phone.
Over time, she discovered origami, captivated by the patience and precision it demanded. What began as a personal passion slowly became a source of confidence and purpose, even though her creations were initially only shared with friends and family.
Motivated by the dream of easing her father’s burden, Nahal began searching for ways to turn her skill into a livelihood. That search led her to the British Asian Trust’s Livelihoods programme. Through the programme, Nahal received training in digital marketing, business management, customer service, budgeting, and pricing. Learning how to value her time and skill was transformative. For the first time, she saw her craft not just as a hobby, but as a business.
With growing confidence, Nahal launched Nahal’s Craft Corner. She began earning an income and contributing to household expenses, one of the proudest moments of her life. Over time, she has hired an assistant, mentors others, and teaches people in her community, passing on the same knowledge she once received.
Nahal dreams of scaling her business and creating opportunities for other women and young people like herself. Her journey is a powerful reminder that when talent is matched with the right skills, mentorship, and belief, it can transform not only one life but an entire community.
Our Women’s Economic Empowerment work in Pakistan was supported by the Citi Foundation’s Pathways to Progress initiative.
