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Success Story: Success Story of Zakia Parveen

Zakia Parveen – Breaking Barriers with Strength and Skill A Life of Struggle and Determination

Zakia Parveen, a strong and determined
woman, has lived a life full of challenges
from a very young age. Living with a
physical disability (PWD), Zakia has
relied on a wheelchair for mobility since
childhood. Despite the physical
limitations, her spirit and will to achieve
something in life remained unshaken.

Zakia grew up in an environment where
life was a constant struggle. Although
she had the support of her family, the financial and emotional challenges
were always present. Through sheer determination and family
encouragement, Zakia managed to complete her matriculation. However,
due to the lack of financial resources and accessibility issues, she
couldn’t continue her education beyond that.

A Burning Desire to Do More

Even as a child, Zakia dreamed of doing something meaningful with her
life. She wanted to be independent, confident, and make a name for
herself. But like many women with disabilities, she faced constant
barriers,physical, societal, and economic that kept pushing her dreams
further out of reach.

After getting married, Zakia’s challenges increased. Her husband’s
income was not enough to support all household needs, and Zakia often
felt the pressure of financial stress. Yet, she continued to hold on to the
hope that one day, she would be able to contribute meaningfully to her
family’s income and gain recognition for her abilities rather than her
disability.

A New Opportunity through a Friend

Zakia’s life took a positive turn when a friend introduced her to
HomeNet Pakistan (HNP). That single connection became a doorway to
the possibilities she had only dreamed of. When she first joined HNP,
she realized that age, physical ability, or background didn’t matter when
it came to learning and personal growth.
 
At HNP, Zakia attended various sessions that were designed to empower
women through awareness, confidencebuilding, and skills training. For
the first time, she felt seen, heard, and supported outside her family
circle.

Empowered by Skills – The Beautician Course

With the support of HomeNet Pakistan and UNDP, Zakia enrolled in a
threemonth certified beautician course. This course became a turning
point in her life. She not only gained practical skills in beauty and self
care services but also began to feel a new level of confidence in herself.


The training gave her a sense of purpose and direction. Zakia said, “This
course taught me more than just beauty skills. It taught me that I am
capable of doing something on my own, even if I cannot walk.”

Starting Her Own Home-Based Setup

After completing her training, Zakia took a bold step and set up a small
beauty station in her own home. With limited resources and space, she
creatively arranged her setup to accommodate her wheelchair and serve
her clients comfortably.

She now offers a range of services including hairstyling, facials, and
makeup to women in her neighborhood. Though she works from home,
her services are in demand, and her clients appreciate her dedication
and professionalism.

Gaining Independence and Respect

Zakia’s small business has helped reduce the financial pressure on her
household. More importantly, it has brought her a sense of
independence and dignity. She no longer feels like a burden; instead, she
feels proud of the fact that she can now contribute to the family income
and stay productively engaged.

She also feels mentally and emotionally stronger. Running her own setup,
managing clients, and receiving appreciation has changed the way she
sees herself. She now inspires others around her, especially women with
disabilities to believe in their potential and take the first step toward
selfreliance.

Looking Ahead with Hope

Zakia’s journey is far from over. She now dreams of expanding her
homebased salon into a larger setup one day. She wants to train other
girls and women, especially those with disabilities, and create a space
where they can feel empowered and independent.

She says, “Thanks to HNP and UNDP, I got a chance to move forward in
life. I found strength in myself that I didn’t know I had.”

A Story of Courage and Change

Zakia Parveen’s story is a testament to the fact that disability does not
define one’s potential. With support, training, and selfbelief, she turned
her life around. From a struggling homemaker to a confident
entrepreneur, Zakia proves that no barrier is too big when a woman
decides to rise.

Her journey continues to inspire others, reminding us all that every
woman deserves a chance to learn, grow, and lead regardless of her
circumstances.

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.

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