
One fine example of an enterprising individual is Ishrat Yaqoob who despite her divorce and financially destitute condition emerged as a successful micro entrepreneur. Ishrat was married with three children and was completely dependent on her husband to provide for her and her family. Needless to say, her divorce completely crippled her financially as well as emotionally.
It was a daily struggle paying for her children's education and soon found her-self unable to meet her basic household expenses. With time she realized that matters needed to be taken in her own hands as she could not depend on anyone but herself and that she is solely responsible for her and her family’s well being.
Ishrat's newfound courage enabled her to withstand her miseries and become the bread winner for her family. She started tailoring at home but due to shortage of machinery, raw material and lack of funds for investment she could not increase her daily output in order to raise more funds and meet her household expenses. Ishrat was a sound woman who always kept her eyes and ears open so that she may seize any and all opportunities that were presented. She would discuss her issues and learn from the experiences of others, which is exactly what showed her a new light and helped her knock on the right door at the right time.
Ishrat learned through a relative about microfinance loans and the facilities provided by various MFIs. She approached Khushhali Bank Limited for assistance. Ishrat applied for a loan and immediately qualified for it and in no time was a proud owner of several sewing machines & greater raw material necessary for expanding her tailoring business. Ishrat's tailoring work was well received by the locals, as a result of which her business grew rapidly.
Today Ishrat is a role model whereby everyone in the locality looks up to her for inspiration and guidance. Awed by her commitment, the ladies in the vicinity have started sending their girls to Ishrat's tailoring centre. She is now living a better life and providing quality education to her children.