How Are Women Vendors Empowering Families in Islamabad?

APP

Islamabad: For many individuals in Islamabad, women vending has become more than just a livelihood; it is a crucial source of income and empowerment for some of society’s most marginalized groups.

These women are playing an essential role in the local economy, providing for their families and communities while navigating significant challenges, including limited education and fewer opportunities.

The Resilience of Women Vendors

As the sun rises over the bustling streets of Islamabad, women vendors set up their stalls with determination, selling fresh fruits, vegetables, and other essential goods. One such vendor, Fatima, a 35-year-old mother, has found success at Peshawar Mor Sunday Bazar, where she sells clothes and women’s essentials.

In an interview with APP, Fatima shared her personal journey, explaining how starting her own stall was initially a struggle. “It was tough at the beginning, but I had no choice,” she said. “I had to provide for my children. Today, I am proud to say that I can give my family a decent education and a comfortable life.”

Fatima’s story is a reflection of the resilience and determination displayed by many women vendors in Islamabad. Despite facing long working hours, limited profits, and societal challenges, these women continue to push forward to ensure the well-being of their families. They are not only surviving but thriving, becoming pillars of support for their communities.

Vending: A Path to Financial Empowerment

For women like Afshi Safdar, vending has provided a way out of poverty and limited economic opportunities. Afshi shared her perspective on how women in her position often turn to vending when they lack formal education or skills. “Vending has empowered us to take control of our finances,” she said. “It’s been a game-changer for us.”

Afshi emphasized that these women vendors are more than just small business owners; they are crucial players in Islamabad’s informal economy. “We are the backbone of the local economy, providing essential goods and services to hundreds of people every day,” she explained. “Our role is indispensable in this city’s daily functioning.”

Challenges and Empowerment through Vending

The customers of these women vendors, such as Shakeela Sabeen, recognize the vital role they play. Shakeela relies on these vendors for her daily needs, appreciating their availability and affordable prices.

“Vending is a challenging job that requires not just physical stamina but also strategic thinking and strong negotiation skills,” Shakeela said, acknowledging the expertise and resilience required in this profession.

For many women, vending is not only a means of earning a livelihood but also an act of defying societal expectations and economic constraints. They are taking control of their futures and challenging traditional gender roles in a country where women often face significant barriers in formal employment.

A Catalyst for Change in South Asia

These women vendors are part of a larger movement across South Asia, where women are increasingly entering informal sectors like vending to secure their financial independence.

In Pakistan, where cultural and economic barriers limit women’s access to the formal workforce, these vendors represent a significant shift. They are proving that empowerment is not just about formal employment; it’s about the ability to create opportunities and challenge adversity.

The stories of women vendors in Islamabad serve as a powerful reminder that, despite the challenges they face, women in South Asia are an unwavering force for change.

They are not only ensuring their own financial independence but also inspiring future generations of women to challenge societal norms and pursue economic autonomy.