Islamabad, Pakistan – In a compelling episode of the Washington Global Forum, broadcast from Islamabad, prominent psychologist, entrepreneur, and political figure Dr. Naghat Farooq Wadood highlighted the rising tide of women’s entrepreneurship in Pakistan. Speaking with host Farooq, Dr. Wadood discussed her multifaceted career, the evolving role of women in the economy, and strategies for overcoming societal barriers, emphasizing financial independence as a key to empowerment.
The program, which has been running in Islamabad for several days, focused on the emerging trend of women in Pakistan turning towards branding and self-employment. Host Farooq noted that this shift is particularly evident in cities like Faisalabad, Gujranwala, Karachi, and rural areas of Sindh, as well as in Islamabad, where a robust business culture among women has developed. “We’ve seen women engaging in businesses we couldn’t even imagine before,” Farooq said, praising their brilliance, courage, and success as entrepreneurs and businesswomen.
Dr. Wadood, a PhD in psychology, practicing clinician, writer, and politician, shared her personal journey as a successful businesswoman who has expanded the American franchise Subway across multiple locations in Pakistan. “Thank you for inviting me,” she began, addressing the host. She explained how women today are not only managing household issues but also resolving financial crises while contributing to both family and national economies. “Whether educated or not, women are making significant contributions,” she said, citing examples from her experiences in women’s chambers of commerce.
Drawing from her observations in the Women Chamber of Commerce and the FPCCI’s women wing, Dr. Wadood highlighted diverse ventures by women, including exporting handmade items like bangles, candles, perfumed candles, and clothing. “There’s now awareness among women in Pakistan; they are ready to advance,” she asserted. She pointed out that with women comprising nearly 55% of the population, their involvement is crucial for prosperous households. “No longer can a single person run the home; women must join in for true prosperity.”
As a psychologist, Dr. Wadood addressed societal perceptions and psychological hurdles facing women. She debunked the general notion that women are confined or pressured, noting a shift from traditional taboos. “In the past, our grandmothers weren’t even allowed to go to school,” she recalled. However, progress is evident, such as in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Malakand region, where girls’ literacy rates reach 100%, exemplified by figures like Nobel laureate Malala Yousafzai.
Financial independence, she stressed, is as essential as basic survival needs like eating or breathing. “It’s a mode of survival,” Dr. Wadood said, encouraging women to start small from home if needed—whether through cooking recipes, making envelopes, or crafting kites during Basant season. She shared stories of women earning via TikTok by sharing cooking tips or other content from rural homes.
The discussion turned to the role of women’s chambers in promoting businesses. As Vice President of a women’s wing, Dr. Wadood explained how these organizations help alleviate initial hesitations, assist with loans from banks, and provide training on promotion, exports, and imports. “They resolve problems, teach methods to promote businesses—big or small—and conduct sessions on awareness,” she said.
Balancing her roles as a doctor, politician, educator, writer, and entrepreneur, Dr. Wadood credited her success to strong family support. “Behind my success is the hand of the men in my family,” she revealed, contrasting the common saying that behind every successful man is a woman. She thanked her late father, Sheikh Ghulam Farooq, a member and director of the Islamabad Stock Exchange, for treating her like a son and building her confidence. Her husband, brothers, and sons have been equally supportive in her pursuits, from politics to franchising. “Without their cooperation, I couldn’t have come this far,” she said, attributing ultimate credit to divine will.
On her Subway franchise, Dr. Wadood described it as a healthy food option adhering strictly to international standards. “We follow all protocols and rules without compromise,” she said, noting customer satisfaction due to authentic ingredients and service mirroring U.S. outlets. She expressed ambitions to expand further, with her sons eager to grow the business. “If God wills, I’ll take more franchises,” she added.
From a psychological perspective, Dr. Wadood analyzed women’s activities on social media. She praised those using digital platforms for business promotion and motivation but expressed concern over negative behaviors, such as trolling or explicit content. “Psychologically, these women often come from broken homes or lack family checks and balances,” she explained. Such actions may stem from frustration, depression, or a search for shortcuts to financial gain. She called for government-level interventions, including training and awareness programs to encourage positive content creation. “They deserve sympathy; we need to guide them towards better paths.”
In her advice to aspiring women entrepreneurs, especially those connected to the American diaspora via the Washington Global Forum, Dr. Wadood outlined key criteria for success: effective time management, upholding personal values, and inclusive growth. “Manage your time for home, business, and activities; never compromise your values; take everyone along,” she urged. She emphasized financial, relationship, and time management as pillars of success.
Host Farooq concluded by lauding women’s contributions to Pakistan’s economy, trade, and society. “Women’s chambers provide vital platforms, and if this continues, Pakistan will be respected globally for women’s advocacy,” he said.
This episode underscores a transformative era for Pakistani women, blending professional expertise with entrepreneurial spirit to drive national progress. Dr. Wadood’s story serves as an inspiration, proving that with support and determination, women can shatter barriers and lead in multiple spheres.
