Sahar Malik, a distinguished figure in Academia Industrial Linkages and women’s empowerment, has left an indelible mark on the business landscape. In her role as the Founder and CEO of Matriarch, Sahar channels her efforts into streamlining businesses and nurturing growth in procurement, supply chain management, and service delivery. A passionate advocate for women’s empowerment, she concurrently serves as the President of the Women Chamber of Commerce and Industry Lahore Division, dedicating herself to advancing women in the business community. Sahar Malik’s leadership serves as a catalyst for positive change, creating a business environment that uplifts women and contributes to the broader economic landscape of Pakistan. The transformative shift in academic education under her guidance reflects a commitment to national capacity building and ethical business practices, positioning Sahar as a trailblazer in her field.
- Can you provide an overview of the current projects initiated by the Women Chamber of Commerce & Industry aimed at empowering women in Pakistan? How are these projects making a tangible impact on the lives of women in different sectors?
The Women Chamber of Commerce & Industry Lahore (WCCIL) is actively engaged in empowering women in business through a comprehensive array of initiatives. These projects aim to make a tangible impact on the lives of women in different sectors across Pakistan.
*National and International Delegations:
WCCIL facilitates participation in delegations, providing women entrepreneurs with exposure to national and international business environments, fostering collaboration and global perspectives.
*Exhibitions, Seminars, and Training Programs:
WCCIL organizes exhibitions and seminars, along with training programs covering product development and digital e-commerce, equipping women with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the modern business landscape.
*Networking Opportunities:
The chamber creates platforms for networking, allowing female entrepreneurs to connect with industry experts, potential collaborators, and fellow businesswomen, thereby expanding their professional circles.
*Qissa Goi and Fashion Shows:
Cultural events like Qissa Goi and fashion shows not only showcase the rich heritage but also provide a stage for women entrepreneurs to display their products, fostering creativity and market visibility.
*Standing Committees and Women Enclaves:
WCCIL establishes standing committees and women enclaves, offering dedicated spaces for women-led businesses to flourish and contribute to economic growth.
*Model Bazar Project:
This initiative provides a marketplace for women entrepreneurs to showcase and sell their products, supporting economic empowerment at a grassroots level.
*Consulting Services and IT Department:
The chamber offers consulting services and has an IT department to assist women entrepreneurs in navigating business challenges and embracing technology for enhanced efficiency.
*Humanitarian Aid through “Help To Humanity”:
WCCIL extends support to humanitarian causes through initiatives like “Help To Humanity,” demonstrating a commitment to social responsibility.
*MOUs and Membership Drives:
The chamber collaborates through Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) and actively engages in membership drives to strengthen its network and outreach.
*Awards and Women Empowerment Programs:
Recognition through awards and dedicated women empowerment programs encourage and celebrate the achievements of women in business.
*B2B Movements:
Facilitating business-to-business movements, WCCIL fosters collaboration among women entrepreneurs, enhancing their collective impact.
*Events like Women’s Day and Breast Cancer Awareness:
Special events align with broader societal causes, raising awareness and emphasizing the role of women in addressing critical issues.
*Ongoing Projects:
Initiatives like the establishment of a Women Industrial Zone, Academia & Industrial Linkages, Networking Programs, Top Ten Business Ideas, and the International Pink Ribbon Ceremony showcase WCCIL’s commitment to sustained and impactful efforts.
Together, these projects contribute to fostering female entrepreneurship, creating economic opportunities, and making a lasting impact on women’s lives across diverse sectors in Pakistan.
- In what ways does the Women Chamber of Commerce and Industry measure the success and impact of its women empowerment initiatives? Are there specific metrics or success stories that highlight the positive outcomes of these projects?
The Women Chamber of Commerce and Industry meticulously assesses the success and impact of its women empowerment initiatives, employing a range of metrics and drawing insights from compelling success stories. Our approach encompasses vital components such as business mentoring, coaching, business plan consultancy, marketing and sales consultancy, financial counseling, networking opportunities, access to professional business advisors, business registration support, and engaging workshops. Beyond these, our center collaborates with external resources for idea generation, definition, and development support, offering services like accommodation, virtual support, technical assistance, and linkage to various stakeholders. Application support covers aspects like business planning, market linkages, and prototyping, while ongoing business support entails mentorship, coaching, and facilitated access to facilities through links with area experts. These thorough measures effectively showcase the positive outcomes and success stories emerging from the Women Chamber’s impactful women empowerment projects.
Success Story:
One notable success story exemplifies the WRCI’s commitment to fostering women entrepreneurs’ success. With a commendable success rate of 76%, our hands-on approach involves dedicated support and guidance to female entrepreneurs. By strategically linking them with the industry, we provide personalized assistance that significantly contributes to the achievements of our initiatives. In contrast, the academic business ratio stands at 6%, highlighting the effectiveness of our tailored approach in empowering and advancing women entrepreneurs.
- What challenges do women entrepreneurs and professionals in Pakistan commonly face, and how is the Women Chamber of Commerce and Industry addressing these challenges through its programs and initiatives? Are there innovative solutions being implemented to overcome gender-related barriers?
The Women Chamber of Commerce and Industry actively addresses the common challenges faced by women entrepreneurs and professionals in Pakistan through a strategic operational approach. Our initiatives include skill development training programs geared towards fostering self-employment, lectures, TV and radio talks, and seminars focused on entrepreneurship success stories. Additionally, we offer Women Entrepreneurship Development and Training Programs, along with an in-house advisory cell dedicated to addressing legal and taxation issues for women entrepreneurs. Through our comprehensive learning and development initiatives in electronic media, training, and legal & taxation, we strive to equip women with the necessary tools for success. Furthermore, industry visits are organized for prospective entrepreneurs, facilitating valuable insights and connections. These efforts collectively form innovative solutions aimed at overcoming gender-related barriers and empowering women in the business landscape.
- How does the Women Chamber of Commerce and Industry collaborate with other organizations, both within and outside Pakistan, to enhance the effectiveness of its projects for women empowerment? Are there any notable partnerships that have significantly contributed to the cause?
The Women Chamber of Commerce and Industry (WCCI) strategically collaborates with a multitude of organizations to amplify the impact of its women empowerment projects. Notable partnerships within Pakistan encompass academic-industrial linkages, such as with the University of Central Punjab, the College of Tourism & Hotel Management, and the Superior Group, fostering a synergy between education and industry practices.
Furthermore, the WCCI extends its reach internationally through collaborations with esteemed entities like the United Nations Industrial Development Organization, establishing cross[1]border connections for shared goals. The collaboration with Sanatzar plays a pivotal role in enhancing academia-industry linkages, contributing valuable resources and expertise to the WCCI’s initiatives. These partnerships collectively enrich the WCCI’s efforts, creating a robust network that significantly contributes to the advancement of women empowerment both locally and globally.
- In addition to on-the-ground projects, how is the Women Chamber of Commerce and Industry involved in advocating for gender-inclusive policies at the national level?
The Women Chamber of Commerce and Industry (WCCI), as the founder of all chambers across Pakistan, stands as a pioneer in advocating for gender-inclusive policies at the national level. With a strong belief in women’s inclusion and empowerment, the WCCI actively engages in ongoing dialogues with policymakers, participates in relevant forums, and collaborates with influential entities such as the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority (SMEDA) and the State Bank.
Beyond advocacy, the WCCI plays a crucial role in supporting female entrepreneurs and driving the development of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). This multifaceted approach underscores the WCCI’s commitment to fostering long-term systemic change in the national landscape, creating an environment that not only supports gender equality but actively encourages the growth and success of women in business.
- From the perspective of the Women Chamber of Commerce and Industry, how has the landscape for gender equality in the business sector evolved in Pakistan over the recent years?
From the perspective of the Women Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the landscape for gender equality in the business sector in Pakistan has undergone notable evolution in recent years. There is a discernible positive shift, marked by increased recognition of the value and potential of women in business. The WCCI has observed growing opportunities for female entrepreneurs, facilitated by a changing societal mindset and an encouraging business environment.
Government initiatives and collaborative efforts with various stakeholders have played a pivotal role in fostering this transformation. However, challenges persist, and the WCCI remains steadfast in its commitment to addressing them. The landscape continues to evolve, driven by collective efforts to create more inclusive opportunities and empower women to excel in the business sector.
Furthermore, the Women Chamber of Commerce and Industry actively supports and advocates for women’s inclusiveness and growth in women-led businesses to ensure gender equality. This involves implementing key principles such as:
*Assessing employees based on skills and data:
The WCCI promotes fair assessments that focus on skills and data, fostering an environment where women are recognized and rewarded based on their capabilities.
*Eradicating the pay gap:
The WCCI advocates for equal pay, working towards eliminating gender-based pay disparities to ensure that women receive fair compensation for their contributions.
*Emphasizing work-life balance:
Recognizing the importance of work-life balance, the WCCI encourages practices that enable women to balance professional and personal responsibilities effectively.
*Implementing serious punishment for harassment cases:
The WCCI prioritizes a safe and respectful workplace, advocating for stringent measures against harassment to create an environment where women feel secure.
*Promoting proper mentoring programs:
The WCCI actively supports mentoring programs designed to guide and empower women in their professional journeys, fostering a culture of mentorship and support. These principles underscore the commitment of the Women Chamber of Commerce and Industry to championing gender equality and creating an inclusive business environment for women in Pakistan.
- Looking ahead, are there specific goals or milestones that the organization aims to achieve in the coming years to advance gender equality and women’s empowerment?
Looking ahead, the Women Chamber of Commerce and Industry envisions specific goals and milestones to further advance gender equality and women’s empowerment in the coming years. Our commitment to fostering inclusive economic growth aligns with key objectives:
- Expansion of Women-Led Businesses:
We aim to transform the Women Chamber of Commerce and Industry into a pivotal platform for women-led businesses of all sizes. This involves incubation, mentorship, and support for aspiring female entrepreneurs, ensuring they have the resources and guidance needed to thrive.
- Realignment of SME Initiatives:
To streamline and enhance existing SME initiatives, we will focus on making them more accessible and beneficial to women entrepreneurs. This includes tailored programs that address the unique challenges faced by women in business.he Women Chamber of Commerce and Industry strives to contribute to a more equitable, thriving, and inclusive business sector in Pakistan.
- Inclusivity and Diversity:
We are dedicated to identifying and supporting women entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds, especially those in rural areas and marginalized communities. Encouraging them to step forward with their ideas, providing essential training, and mentorship will be a priority.
- Policy Advocacy:
Emphasizing the importance of policy support, the Women Chamber of Commerce and Industry will actively advocate for equitable access to capital, mentorship, training, and networking opportunities. Our goal is to create an environment that nurtures and supports women in their entrepreneurial journey.
- Global Collaboration:
We seek to strengthen international collaborations, building partnerships with organizations like the U.S.-Pakistan Women’s Council and Paklaunch. These partnerships will play a crucial role in shaping a business environment that values diversity, inclusivity, and gender equality.
- Education and Awareness:
A key milestone involves increasing awareness about the transformative impact of entrepreneurship. Through educational initiatives, we aim to inspire more women to venture into business, highlighting success stories and providing them with the confidence to overcome challenges.
By pursuing these goals, the Women Chamber of Commerce and Industry strives to contribute to a more equitable, thriving, and inclusive business sector in Pakistan.
The interview has been published in the last edition of Observer Diplomat Magazine ” Gender Equality for a Better Tomorrow” Click here for more information
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