Ayesha, an 18-year-old girl from Pakistan, lives with her parents and three younger siblings, and her father works as a daily wage labourer. Due to financial constraints, Ayesha had to discontinue her education after Grade 8. When she learned about SPARC’s vocational training courses, she saw an opportunity to gain skills and earn an income to support her family. She chose a six-month dressmaking course, recognising its high local demand, and convinced her parents to allow her participation.

Ayesha faced resistance from relatives who believed girls should remain at home, and her parents were initially unable to challenge them. With support from SPARC, she explained that she would work from home and that there were no safety risks. During training, she also endured discouraging comments from community members who questioned the necessity of vocational training for girls. Despite these pressures, Ayesha remained focused and successfully completed the course.

After finishing her training in May 2025, Ayesha launched a home-based tailoring business. Initially, she served only neighbours and relatives, but by consistently producing high-quality work, she gradually built a steady client base. Today, she works about 20 days a month and earns approximately US$90.00, enabling her to contribute to household expenses and pay for her siblings’ school supplies. Beyond income, the training and entrepreneurship boosted her confidence and transformed her status within her family — from a dependent to an active contributor.

Ayesha’s journey has challenged deeply rooted patriarchal norms by showing that girls can be economic assets, inspiring at least five other families in her village to enrol their daughters in similar programmes. Her success demonstrates the power of combining skills development with community support and awareness of women’s rights. By gaining technical expertise and asserting her agency, Ayesha not only secured a sustainable livelihood but also became a role model for other girls, showing how economic empowerment can shift household and community perceptions.

Contributed by SPARC, Pakistan.