Women’s Empowerment: Nazia’s story
In Pakistan over 39% of the population lives in poverty on less than $3 a day. Without support to establish secure livelihoods, vulnerable people risk being further marginalised and falling further into poverty.
Nazia, a 40-year-old woman from a low-income community in Pakistan, faced immense challenges due to her hearing and speech disabilities. Despite these obstacles, she earned her Bachelor's degree. After separating from her husband, Nazia returned to her aging parents' home, becoming their primary support. Her brother, who is also disabled, also contributed by driving a rickshaw, yet their combined efforts were barely enough.
Nazia’s two daughters are her world, but she was unable to support both so she could only be with one, and the other stayed with her husband. Undeterred, Nazia sought ways to improve their lives. Through the deaf community, she learned about NOWPDP, an organisation supported by the British Asian Trust and the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, dedicated to empowering disabled people.
Enrolling in NOWPDP’s Computer Operator training opened new doors for her. The training, which focused on essential Microsoft Suite skills, boosted Nazia’s confidence and ignited her belief that she could forge her own path. Support from her trainers enabled her to master new skills and envision a better future.
Nazia’s dedication paid off when she secured a job at a reputable bank. This opportunity transformed her life, allowing her to support her family financially. Her first priority with her income is her daughter’s education, starting with her school admission fees. The ability to contribute to household expenses brought immense joy to Nazia, who cherished the chance to repay her parents’ support.
Nazia dreams of a better life for her daughter and strives to inspire others with disabilities. She encourages them to seek empowerment through opportunities like those provided by the Trust. For Nazia, true success lies in knowing she has done her best for her family and in inspiring others to follow her example.
Nazia's story is a testament to the transformative power of empowerment and support, demonstrating how lives can be changed when opportunities are made accessible to all.