Interview with Gwadar’s Trailblazing Female Entrepreneur

Zareef Baloch

Gwadar: After graduating in Information Technology (IT), both males and females often pursue careers in IT-related fields. However, in Baloch society, most educated females prefer jobs in government or non-governmental organizations. This is not the case for Zuhra Baloch, a talented entrepreneur from Gwadar, Balochistan.

ThePenPK.com recently had the opportunity to sit down with Zuhra Baloch at her roadside restaurant to uncover the inspirations behind her journey into entrepreneurship.Thank you for joining us, Zuhra. Could you start by sharing a little about your background and how you ventured into entrepreneurship?

Zuhra Baloch: Thank you for having me. I graduated in Information Technology from Gwadar, where, traditionally, most women either pursue jobs in government or non-government organizations. However, I always felt the need to do something different, something that could create a path for others. That’s when the idea of starting a business came into my mind. Along with my friends, I set up a small cafe called Baloch Insight Hub at the GDA Park in Gwadar.

What inspired you to start this cafe? Was it a planned decision?Zuhra Baloch: Not at all! It happened quite spontaneously. Back in July 2024, an art exhibition was held in Gwadar, and we decided to set up a stall for two days. We showcased books and offered some food items. The experience was so encouraging that we thought, why not continue this? With support from Al Habib Restaurant, who sponsored us initially, we took the plunge despite having no prior market or business knowledge. It was challenging, but we were determined.

That’s incredible. Can you tell us more about the challenges you faced in starting and running this business?

Zuhra Baloch: Running a business as women in a conservative and traditionally male-dominated society like Gwadar is no easy feat. We encountered skepticism and resistance. But our primary goal was to empower women in this backward society. We wanted to create a roadmap, proving that women can thrive in entrepreneurship just as men do. Establishing this tea cafe at GDA Park has been our way of breaking barriers and showing others that it’s possible.

How did the Gwadar Development Authority (GDA) support your initiative?Zuhra Baloch: The GDA has been incredibly supportive. When we pitched our idea to the Director General, he appreciated it and encouraged us. They provided us with space to set up a temporary stall at the GDA Park, which is a prime location near the seaside. This park attracts a lot of families and local tourists, especially on public holidays, making it an ideal spot for our cafe.

That’s wonderful to hear. Hafeez Dashti from GDA also shared his perspective on your initiative. He mentioned how rare it is for women to venture into business in Gwadar and emphasized GDA’s commitment to women’s empowerment. What’s your take on this?

Zuhra Baloch: We are grateful for GDA’s encouragement and support. It’s a step in the right direction for fostering women’s empowerment in Gwadar. Their backing has been crucial in helping us establish ourselves and inspiring other women to think beyond traditional roles.

What has the response been like from your customers?Zuhra Baloch: The response has been overwhelmingly positive. For instance, one of our regular customers, Bakhtawar, visits every weekend. She often tells us how proud she feels to see women like us breaking social chains and barriers. It’s feedback like this that motivates us to keep going.

What’s your message for other women who may want to follow in your footsteps?

Zuhra Baloch: My message is simple: don’t let societal norms or barriers hold you back. Believe in yourself, take that first step, and create your own path. If we, as women in Gwadar, can run a business in a challenging environment, anyone can. Empowering yourself also empowers others—and that’s how change begins.

Thank you, Zuhra, for sharing your inspiring journey. We wish you and Baloch Insight Hub continued success.