Says no nation can progress without the due women’s participation
By M Qadeer
Firdous Nisar, recently elected as an Executive Committee Member of the Lahore Chamber of Commerce & Industry (LCCI), has been at the forefront of women’s empowerment in Pakistan. As a strong advocate for female entrepreneurs, she has organized numerous events, training programs, and networking opportunities to uplift women in business. Her work also extends to cultural preservation, where she is actively promoting Punjab’s heritage and language through the Overseas Committee on Art, Culture, and Heritage.
Firdous Nisar firmly believes that women must be given equal opportunities in business and economic activities. “No nation can progress without the due participation of women,” she asserts. “We need to create an environment where women feel empowered to step into leadership roles, start their own businesses, and contribute to the economy.”
Through the LCCI Standing Committee on Women Entrepreneurs Business Forum, she has been working on initiatives to facilitate women-led businesses. “We are collaborating with financial institutions to provide women with easier access to loans and funding,” she explains. “Many talented women have brilliant ideas but lack the resources to execute them. Our goal is to remove those barriers.”
Firdous Nisar has always encouraged women to reach out to her for any kind of assistance, whether in business, personal development, or legal matters. “Women often hesitate to ask for help, but I want them to know that my doors are always open,” she says. “If you need mentorship, business advice, legal support, or just motivation, I am here to help.”
She has also been instrumental in organizing events where women can connect with successful business leaders and learn from their experiences. “Networking is key,” she emphasizes. “When women support each other, we can create a powerful force for change.”
Beyond business, Firdous Nisar is deeply passionate about cultural preservation. As a leading member of the Overseas Committee on Art, Culture, and Heritage, she has been actively promoting Punjab’s rich traditions. “Our culture is our identity,” she says. “We must protect and promote our language, music, and heritage to ensure that future generations remain connected to their roots.”
Read also: World Interfaith Harmony Week held to promote dialogue and inspire a more compassionate, peaceful world
She has been involved in organizing cultural festivals, poetry recitations, and art exhibitions that celebrate Punjab’s history. “It’s not just about nostalgia,” she explains. “A strong cultural identity gives us confidence as a nation and helps us stand out globally.”
Firdous Nisar urges women to take charge of their own futures. “Believe in yourself,” she advises. “Education, confidence, and hard work can take you anywhere. Don’t wait for opportunities—create them.”
She also stresses the importance of women supporting one another. “We need to lift each other up instead of competing against one another,” she says. “Success is not about individual achievement; it’s about collective progress.”
Looking ahead, Firdous Nisar is committed to expanding her efforts in both business advocacy and cultural preservation. “I want to see more women leading businesses, making financial decisions, and shaping policies,” she says. “And I want to ensure that our cultural heritage remains alive and thriving.”
Her message is clear: Women must be given equal opportunities, not just for their own growth, but for the progress of the entire nation. Through her relentless efforts, Firdous Nisar is not just advocating for change—she is making it happen.
