Success Story: sadia – Home Net Pakistan

Success Story: sadia story

Stitching Her Way to Success

Sadia, a soft–spoken yet determined woman from Chungi Amer Siddhu,
Lahore, is a remarkable example of
how skill–building and the right
support can change a woman’s life.
With the assistance of HomeNet
Pakistan (HNP) and the United
Nations Development Programme
(UNDP), she completed a three–
month certified dressmaking
courseat Vocational Training
Institute (VTI) Kahna. Today,
Sadia is not only running her own
home–based stitching business but
also inspiring other women around
her.

Early Life: Burdened with Limitations

Before she discovered the course, Sadia’s life was much like many
women in her area—centered around household responsibilities and
raising her children. Her husband’s income was the only source of
livelihood, which often fell short of meeting even the basic needs. Sadia
wanted to support her family financially but lacked the training and
confidence to take a step forward.

“I used to feel helpless whenever expenses piled up. I wished
I could contribute but didn’t know how,” she recalled.

A Passion Waiting to Be Polished

Even before receiving formal training, Sadia had an interest in stitching.
She would sew clothes for her children and occasionally help relatives
with small alterations. Friends often praised her sense of style and the
neatness of her work. However, without proper training and tools, her
skills remained basic and her dream of starting a proper stitching setup
stayed just that—a dream.

A Life-Changing Opportunity from HNP and UNDP

One day, Sadia heard from a neighbor about a free certified
dressmaking course being offered at VTI Kahna through a joint
initiative by HomeNet Pakistan and UNDP. The course was specifically
designed for women like her—home–based, low–income, and eager to
learn. Encouraged by her husband and family, Sadia enrolled with hope
and determination in her heart.

“It felt like a new door had opened in my life,” she said with
gratitude.

Training at VTI Kahna: Turning Passion into Profession

The three–month training course introduced Sadia to the fundamentals of
professional dressmaking. She learned how to take accurate
measurements, cut and shape fabric, create various types of garments, and
apply finishing techniques. She also learned about fabric selection, design
trends, and how to price her services for clients.

“Every day at VTI was exciting. I was finally doing
something for myself and my future,” Sadia shared.

Balancing Home and Learning

Managing her role as a homemaker and mother while attending classes
was not easy. There were days when Sadia had to rush from her training
back to her home to cook meals or care for her children. But her
commitment never wavered. With the support of her trainers and family,
she completed the course with high marks and a renewed sense of
confidence.

Launching Her Home-Based Stitching Business

After receiving her certificate, Sadia used a small portion of her family
savings to buy a used sewing machine. She set up a modest workspace in
the corner of her home and began stitching clothes for local women. Her
designs were simple yet stylish, and her stitching neat and professional.

Within a few weeks, word of her skill spread, and she started receiving

regular orders.

“The first time I earned from my stitching, I cried. It was the
start of a new life,” she said.

Earning with Dignity and Independence

Sadia’s income now supports her family in meaningful ways. She helps
pay school fees for her children, contributes to household expenses, and
has started saving to buy a new sewing machine. Her financial
independence has also brought her a new level of respect and
confidence—both within her home and in the wider community.

Becoming a Role Model in Chungi Amer Siddhu

Today, Sadia is admired by many women in her neighborhood. She
encourages others to take similar training programs and often guides
young girls who show an interest in stitching. Her dream is to eventually
open a small training center where she can teach other women the same
skills she learned at VTI Kahna

“I want to give back. Just like someone helped me, I want to
help others,” she says.

Gratitude to HomeNet Pakistan and UNDP

Sadia credits HNP and UNDP for bringing such an opportunity to her
doorstep. Their initiative gave her not just a skill, but a future full of
possibilities. She believes that more women–focused programs like this
are the key to breaking cycles of poverty and dependence in communities
like hers.

“They didn’t just teach me how to stitch clothes—they
taught me how to believe in myself,” she said.

Stitching a Future with Confidence

From a homemaker with untapped potential to a skilled dressmaker and
entrepreneur, Sadia’s journey is a story of resilience, hope, and
transformation. Her success proves that when women are empowered
with the right tools and opportunities, they don’t just change their own
lives—they become agents of change for others. With every stitch, Sadia
is sewing strength, pride, and a brighter future—for herself and her
community.

About

HomeNet Pakistan is a network organizations formed to raised awareness about the working conditions of Home Based women workers who comprise 70% of informal workforce behind the country economic activities.