Islamabad, Feb 16: The Islamabad Women Gala wrapped up on Sunday at Lok Virsa, bringing together over 120 women entrepreneurs from across Pakistan. Organized by Let’s Grow Together, the two-day event provided a vital platform for home-based businesswomen to showcase their products, interact with customers, and gain much-needed market visibility.
Featuring an array of locally made goods, the gala highlighted handmade jewelry, textiles, organic skincare, artisanal foods, and home decor. However, it was more than just a marketplace it served as a hub for networking, learning, and fostering community support for women-led businesses. The event’s slogan, “Buy from Your Own,” encouraged consumers to support local entrepreneurs instead of relying on imported products.
Visitors enthusiastically explored high-quality Pakistani products, engaging with the personal stories behind these businesses. “It’s refreshing to see so many women entrepreneurs being recognized,” said visitor Sadia Malik.
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“I bought some beautiful handmade jewelry and skincare products, and it feels great to support these hardworking women.”The gala also provided a family-friendly atmosphere, with a Food Arena offering traditional and fusion cuisines, interactive workshops, and entertainment for children.
Speaking to APP, Ambreen Haider, Founder of Let’s Grow Together, stressed the need for consistent opportunities for women entrepreneurs. “These women manage their businesses alongside household responsibilities, but they lack proper platforms to grow,” she said. “Events like this provide temporary exposure, but they need permanent spaces where they can sell their products regularly.”
Haider emphasized that home-based entrepreneurs contribute significantly to their families and the national economy, yet their businesses struggle without long-term support. She also pointed out the need for global expansion, stating that many of these businesses have the potential to succeed internationally but lack training and digital access.
“If these women were trained to sell on platforms like Amazon, they could reach a much larger customer base,” she explained, urging the government to ease business regulations, provide digital trade support, and create more opportunities for women entrepreneurs.
As the gala concluded, it left a powerful message: Pakistan’s women entrepreneurs are ready to grow, but they need sustained support to succeed. While the event was a positive step, lasting impact will come when these businesses receive continuous opportunities beyond temporary exhibitions.
