How Pakistan’s Women Entrepreneurs Are Redefining Success
Andleeb Khan
Islamabad: The landscape of women’s roles in Pakistan is undergoing a transformative shift. Traditionally confined to managing homes and raising children, women are now making remarkable strides in business, healthcare, education, technology, and beyond.
They are breaking barriers, challenging stereotypes, and redefining their place in society.
Historically, careers for women were largely limited to teaching and nursing. Today, they are excelling in fields like engineering, IT, and robotics, while also making waves in creative industries such as filmmaking, writing, and fashion design.
Pakistani women are even making their mark in sports, earning recognition in cricket, football, and athletics on international platforms.
This paradigm shift is driven by evolving societal attitudes, increased family support, and greater access to education. As a result, more women are entering the workforce, launching businesses, and assuming leadership roles, contributing to a more inclusive and progressive future for the nation.
Pakistan’s founder, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, emphasized that a country cannot prosper without women playing an equal role in society. While his vision for gender equality was established in 1947, its full realization remains a work in progress.
Despite significant advancements, women still face deep-rooted societal constraints and gender discrimination that hinder their potential.
Globally, women’s entrepreneurship is on the rise, yet Pakistan presents a concerning picture. Women constitute only 23-25 percent of the labor force, with a mere 1percent engaged in entrepreneurial ventures.
Despite a growing number of women earning university degrees, only a quarter of them enter the workforce, leading to a vast underutilization of talent and potential.
Stories of Success and Resilience
Sana, a thriving food blogger, underscores the importance of consistency in achieving success. “Overnight success is unrealistic,” she explains.
“Hard work and perseverance are essential.” She believes food blogging empowers women by providing financial independence and social freedom, allowing many to earn through brand partnerships and sponsored content.
Fauzia Kalsoom Rana, Senior Producer for Spotlight with Munizae Jahangir on Aaj TV, highlights the significance of clear communication and story selection in news production. “Women must assert their skills and stand their ground in professional spaces,” she says.
Fauzia stresses the need for creating opportunities and embracing diverse perspectives in media.
Graphic designer Ifrah Hameed shares insights on excelling in the design industry.
“Mastering design principles, industry-standard software, and building an online presence are key,” she advises.
While acknowledging that there is still room for improvement, she notes that women are increasingly establishing their own design studios and making strides in the industry.
Fatima Nabeel, an 18-year-old entrepreneur from Lahore, started her business at 16 using her personal savings.
Encouraging young women to break traditional norms, she states, “Financial independence should be a priority. Young girls must step out of their comfort zones and embrace entrepreneurship.”
Broadcast journalist Mahnoor Qureshi has faced numerous challenges, including personal attacks and professional hurdles. However, she credits her family, particularly her sister, for their unwavering support. “Strong family backing is crucial in overcoming obstacles and achieving success,” she asserts.
Barriers and the Road Ahead
Despite these inspiring success stories, Pakistani women continue to face significant barriers. The World Bank reports that female labor force participation in Pakistan is just 22.8%, among the lowest globally. Deep-seated patriarchal norms, where men are considered primary breadwinners and women are expected to remain homemakers, restrict women’s financial and professional independence.
Moreover, issues such as workplace discrimination, harassment, and transportation challenges further discourage female workforce participation, particularly in rural areas.
Education remains a critical obstacle. According to the United Nations, the literacy rate for women in Pakistan stands at only 57 percent, compared to 70 percent for men. Cultural traditions, poverty, early marriages, and inadequate school infrastructure contribute to low female enrollment and high dropout rates.
Without access to education and vocational training, women are left without the necessary skills to secure higher-paying jobs or establish businesses.
A Changing Narrative
While challenges persist, the resilience and determination of Pakistani women are rewriting the narrative. As they continue to break barriers and carve spaces for themselves in diverse fields, they are shaping a brighter and more equitable future for themselves and the country.
By fostering an environment that supports women’s education, employment, and entrepreneurship, Pakistan can unlock the full potential of its female workforce, paving the way for sustainable progress and national prosperity.
The feature report was released by APP on January 2, 2025.
