Project : Strengthening women and youth: Enabling education in host communities of Pakistan.
Name: Sukhana Sultan
Husband’s Name: Sultan
Age: 43
Course: Stitching (VTC 1 Ikhlas Chowk)
Ethnicity: Afghani
Sukhana Sultan, a 43-year-old Afghan woman, faced economic challenges as the mother of seven children. With two daughters and three sons married, her youngest son remained at home. Skilled in Crochet/Qureshia embroidery, Sukhana’s talents were insufficient to support her household.
Enrollment in SPARC’s Stitching Program
In December 2022, Sukhana enrolled in a free stitching program run by SPARC and Terre des hommes (Tdh) at Ikhlas Chowk. This center provided women like Sukhana an opportunity to learn stitching skills, which could help them generate income. Over the course of three months, Sukhana attended regularly and completed the course in February 2023, earning a sewing machine as a reward for her dedication.
Impact of the Training and Sewing Machine
Upon receiving the sewing machine, Sukhana’s life took a positive turn. Neighbours quickly recognized her newly acquired skills and began placing orders for stitched clothing. Sukhana now receives orders for two to three suits regularly, earning an impressive PKR 1000 per day.
In addition to stitching, Sukhana applies her expertise in Crochet/Qureshia embroidery to create designs on scarves, further increasing her income. This additional income allowed her to purchase a television for her children to facilitate their e-learning.
Future Aspirations
Sukhana has set her sights on expanding her business by stitching cardigans. Previously, making handmade pieces took considerable time, but with the sewing machine provided by Tdh, she has significantly improved her efficiency. This newfound ability not only helps her meet daily expenses but also enables her to save money for future goals, such as building her own house.
Conclusion
Sukhana Sultan’s journey from struggling to make ends meet to becoming financially independent highlights the power of skill development programs. Through her participation in SPARC’s stitching program and the support of Tdh, she has transformed her life, becoming an inspiration for women in her community. With her determination and newfound skills, Sukhana is on the path to achieving even greater success in the future.