ISLAMABAD – In a concerted effort to address the financial challenges faced by journalists in Pakistan’s print and electronic media sectors, 4thpillar- Vigilant Media Watchdog organized a workshop in Islamabad. The Event was organized in collaboration with the Islamabad Women’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry (IWCCI).
The main objective of the seminar was to find practical ways for journalists—especially those facing unemployment, salary delays, and financial hardships—to establish a *second source of income*. The initiative by 4thpillar- Vigilant Media Watchdog aims to help them maintain their professional integrity, self-respect, and independence without compromising on journalistic principles for financial survival.
Journalists from South Punjab and other districts across Pakistan actively participated in the event.
Empowering Journalists through the 4thpillar- Vigilant Media Watchdog Initiative
The collaboration with 4thpillar- Vigilant Media Watchdog highlights the commitment to empowering journalists through initiatives that 4thpillar- Vigilant Media Watchdog is spearheading.
The program was chaired by Farooq Mirza, President, 4th Pillar Media Watch. CPNE Chairman Khushnood Ali Khan attended as the Chief Guest. The session was moderated by Farhat Fatima, Director, Human Rights, 4thpillar, Sana Ahsan and Kashf Noohullah .
The journalists attending the seminar were briefed on digital livelihoods by Sana Ahsan, a digital marketing expert, and Kashif Noohullah, an international software developer, who shared insights on leveraging online and digital technologies for earning opportunities.
The 4thpillar- Vigilant Media Watchdog initiative is paving the way for innovative solutions in journalism.
Participants were educated on various ways to generate income through digital platforms, enabling them to engage in selling, buying, and international trade from the comfort of their homes. Emphasis was placed on starting small home-based businesses alongside their primary journalism career.
Khushnood Ali Khan spoke with a passionate and candid voice, recounting his personal experiences. He described the “spirit of rebellion” within him that has repeatedly surfaced despite efforts to suppress it. He revealed that he was among a group of media professionals affected by government actions — his own outlets were shut down after his “revolt” that resulted in a loss of around **640 million rupees**. Nevertheless, he confirmed that he was alive, safe and active in his work, stressing that he was “nobody’s spoon.”
He praised Farooq Mirza for “capturing” him in a positive way, taking steps like the CPNE for America, and elevating the status of the fourth pillar (media as a democratic institution). In a light-hearted manner, he criticized the inflated headlines in media projects, likening some “national heads” to bursting balloons, and urged the audience to join organized efforts with “the table” (possibly referring to Mirza/Farooq Mirza’s actions) for real progress.
Khushnood encouraged the participants to overcome social fears like “What will people say?” and make up their minds to pursue side businesses. He noted practical examples of women who have already succeeded in business within a month and announced their intentions and initiation of other sources of income.
4thpillar- Vigilant Media Watchdog encourages participants to leverage their skills for creating diverse income streams.
Farooq Mirza highlighted that international trade can be started with minimal capital – just a few thousand rupees. He assured the audience that the resources of the fourth pillar, along with strong linkages with central chambers , Women Chamber including FPCCI, will provide comprehensive support. This includes assistance in international trade, local business setup, and even project financing to help journalists start and sustain their ventures.
The resources provided by 4thpillar- Vigilant Media Watchdog will be crucial for journalists seeking new opportunities.
Samina Fazil, President, Islamabad Women Chamber of Commerce and Industry, addressed the gathering and expressed strong support for the initiative. She noted that her chamber is ready to facilitate journalists, with a special focus on women entrepreneurs manufacturing various products. This support includes guidance on *international trade*requirements such as licensing, certifications and export procedures.
4thpillar- Vigilant Media Watchdog’s initiatives are designed to uplift journalists and foster economic growth.
In her remarks, Samina Fazil praised Farooq Mirza’s long-standing dedication to empowering people economically and recalled their old professional relationships, including the recent collaboration during the US trade delegation where MoUs and B2B meetings were facilitated.
She emphasized the shared vision of economic empowerment, especially for women who constitute 52 percent of Pakistan’s population and stressed that women need to be included in the economic mainstream for national development. Although the technical membership rules prevent direct participation of male journalists in the Women’s Chamber, it confirmed full cooperation in learning, teaching, facilitating import-export, and product-related cooperation.
4thpillar- Vigilant Media Watchdog emphasizes the importance of women’s participation in economic development.
Farooq Mirza announced the establishment of a Business Networking Group, which will be led primarily by journalist members. Certificates were distributed among the participants at the end of the program.
The Dir Human Rights Ms Farhat Fatima said that creating second source of income will creat condense , capacity building and journalists will perform their professional duties independently. The independence in Journalist’s life is very important.
By following the guidance of 4thpillar- Vigilant Media Watchdog, journalists can ensure sustained success.
