Khushhalibank, the largest microfinance bank in the country, endeavors to encourage the micro and small entrepreneurs of Pakistan through various avenues, one of which has been to take part in the CITI-PPAF Awards which took place today in Islamabad to formally announce the 20 award winners from each respective category. These awards were meant to celebrate the achievements of exceptional micro entrepreneurs who have demonstrated the true spirit of entrepreneurship-using their creative minds and independent decision making to transform their small businesses into successful, growing enterprises.

The prestigious award ceremony was honored by the Chief Guest Ms. Hina Rabbani Khar, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs. Also present at the ceremony were micro-entrepreneurs, representatives from microfinance institutions from across the country, stakeholders and members of the advisory council and screening committee.

Khushhalibank’s clients won the highest number of awards during the award ceremony. Sajan, a client of Khushhalibank, was awarded the cash prize of Rs. 110,000 for winning the position of Regional Winner from the Sindh Province. His loan officer Jhaman Das was also awarded a cash prize of Rs. 25,000 for his efforts in reaching out to such enterprising entrepreneurs. On the regional level in runners up category, two more clients of Khushhalibank Kalsoom Bibi and Muhammad Azeem, were awarded a cash prize of Rs. 80,000 each and their loan officers were awarded a cash prize of Rs. 20,000 each.

Commenting on the announcement of the award winners, Ghalib Nishtar, President Khushhalibank, stated,” These awards play an important role in highlighting and promoting the role of microfinance in poverty alleviation in our region. Our clients have been winning the CITI-PPAF awards for last several years and most of them have been from rural backgrounds. Each winner demonstrates innovative thinking, impressive business skills, and has played an instrumental role in improving the livelihoods of their families and advancing their communities. We are a regular partner with this program.” He further stated, “Micro Entrepreneurship is an underserved segment of the micro-finance market and one which offers significant opportunities for growth. We look forward to strengthening our partnership with Pakistan Poverty Alleviation Fund and Citigroup Foundation over the coming years to build a bright future for Pakistan”.

The winners success demonstrate the growing scope of entrepreneurship in Pakistan and how the sustainable microfinance industry is supporting entrepreneurs in their efforts to boost the region’s economic future.