"For the first time, I have confidence in myself and my family trusts me in my abilities."
Nestled in the majestic mountain range of Northern Pakistan, you can hear the steady thrum of sewing machines being spun. Weaving in between the beat is the sound of gentle chatter and peals of laughter.
Sanaya* is making a dress in her tailoring shop, and her family is helping her with clients who have come to order some new clothes.
Much has changed for Sanaya and her family. A few years ago, they were struggling to earn enough to provide for themselves. Sanaya wanted to help, but with limited skills and a lack of belief from her family, she felt stuck.
Now, thanks to your support and Sanaya’s tenacity, she is building a better life for herself and her family.
Untapped potential
Sanaya grew up in a family that faced severe financial challenges. Although Sanaya was eager to help, her family did not look to her because she is a woman. Her potential was underestimated, and without opportunities to gain new skills, it was difficult for Sanaya to know how she could change the situation.
Learning to sew
After many years of relationship building by Shining Light, our partners were able to set up our Next Generation Project in Sanaya’s village in 2022. She asked her parents for permission to join the tailoring course and was able to get a place.
The trainers quickly noticed Sanaya’s skill in stitching and also her determination. She enjoyed learning to sew and creating garments so much that she said, “Sometimes in my sleep, I would dream about stitching.”
Due to her skill, Sanaya was invited to enrol in the advanced course in the town of Gilgit. There, her newfound confidence solidified, and her tailoring skills continued to improve.
Support from her family
By the end of the courses, Sanaya’s parents had changed their perceptions of their daughter and her capabilities. They now have a huge respect for her and can see her gift in tailoring.
Thanks to your spark and the support of her family, Sanaya had the courage to use her new skills to open a tailoring shop. The income from her business would be able to help provide for her and her family.
A growing business
Over the last 6 months, Sanaya’s shop has taken off. She has earned a total of 272,560PKR (£768.91) and is the best-performing shop from her cohort.
Her business has also become one of the main sources of income for her family. Even her brother, who previously was unemployed, has started working for her – running errands, going to the market to buy materials and making deliveries.
Paving the way
Not only is Sanaya the spark of her family but she’s also the spark in her community. She is an inspiration to the women in her village and is now passing on her skills and unlocking possibilities by teaching others how to sew.
Thanks to your support and Sanaya’s determination, she is now paving the way in her community, and helping change mindsets on women’s roles and their potential to be key earners in families.
“The course has transformed my life and my family’s; today we have so much to be thankful for.”