Zaib Iqbal
Zaib Iqbal is a completely free vocational center in Lahore, Pakistan, dedicated to empowering underprivileged girls by equipping them with practical skills for a brighter future. The center offers five diverse courses—Information Technology, electrician training, beautician work, cooking, and sewing—allowing young women to explore multiple fields and gain hands-on experience. By removing financial barriers, Zaib Iqbal provides these students with opportunities to build independence, pursue meaningful work, and support themselves and their families. It stands as a community-driven initiative fostering dignity, self-reliance, and long-term empowerment through education and skill development.
How I got involved
During my volunteer work at Zaib Iqbal Skills Development Institute, I had the chance to spend meaningful time with many of the girls enrolled in the program. I spoke with them about their goals, encouraged them in their learning, and helped guide them through different aspects of their courses, whether it was in IT, sewing, or beautician training. One of the most rewarding parts of my experience was introducing a small project where I provided plain socks for the girls to embroider and design creatively (the images are below of the socks). This activity not only allowed them to practice and refine their skills, but also gave them the chance to explore their own artistic expression and gain confidence in their abilities. Afterward, I collected their finished products and sold them through Smellyz, showcasing their talent to a wider audience. Seeing their excitement when their work was appreciated and valued was incredibly fulfilling, as it reinforced the idea that with the right opportunities, their creativity and hard work could open doors to empowerment and financial independence.
