Despite being part of a society where women are more likely to spend their lives looking after family needs, I believe they can also take steps towards greater achievements outside the home. My journey towards new horizons started when I registered with ACCA. Being part of a prestigious global organisation and having been raised in a family with a strong business mindset, I always dreamt of starting my own venture.
The support of my family and mentors certainly helped me reach my true potential. I also idolise Hazrat Khadija al-Kubra, who was renowned for her widespread business successes and flourished in male-dominated trades many centuries ago.
While becoming an ACCA member I worked with various businesses to gain experience and took part in multiple forums, including the World Bank’s WomenX Pakistan and Enclude. I also served in the ACCA Pakistan Women in Finance Society and was nominated as an Icon for Youth by USAID for SMEs. This helped me improve my overall skillset, especially my communication and interpersonal skills.
There is no force more powerful than a woman determined to rise
In 2018 I launched my own venture, FTAC, offering corporate professional training and consultancy services. I started this consultancy rather than continuing in corporate jobs in order to aid businesses with development and play a part in the economic growth of the country.
Resigning from a well-paid job and jumping into the business world was one of the boldest moves I ever made. Dealing with the challenges involved took me right out of my comfort zone but I wanted to set an example for other girls.
If I had law-making powers, I would introduce measures to ensure a safe work environment. I would also like to see equal rights and opportunities for women in every field of life, so they can be financially liberated and not obliged to quit their careers to look after family.
My team worked remotely during Covid-19, which improved my management skills tremendously. The experience made me realise how important a role technology is playing in today’s world. It also unveiled the power of being empathetic and positive.
I enjoy my work because it responds to my passion, which is being able to help others and leading by example. My biggest achievement is my inner satisfaction and happiness, which has made me humble and more determined.
If I weren’t an accountant, I would have been an actuarial scientist.
I really enjoy reading, travelling and playing badminton.
My advice is to believe in yourself and be yourself. Girls, if you do not find an opportunity, create one, as there is no force more powerful than a woman determined to rise. And remember, if you do encounter challenges along the way, the comeback is always stronger than the setback.
