Opening economic pathways
Omer Aftab launched a women’s economic empowerment programme in 2002 to address barriers faced by women entrepreneurs, especially in disadvantaged communities.
Causes & Social Impact
Women’s Economic Empowerment
Turning enterprise, access and policy into opportunity.
Training designed around real needs
A study of around 300 women—established business owners, aspiring entrepreneurs and women whose ventures had closed—shaped training in marketing, finance, people management, technology, production and quality. A bilingual training manual led to the Urdu book Apna Karobar.
Institutions and access to finance
He advocated the creation of Women Chambers of Commerce and Industry, subsequently recognised in trade legislation in 2005, and supported a national committee for women’s entrepreneurship development. His work also addressed cash-flow lending for entrepreneurs without property collateral. He was appointed an honorary country representative for the Organization of Women in International Trade.
Interested in making a difference?
Connect with Omer Aftab to discuss a partnership, speaking engagement or social-impact initiative.