Women Chamber of Commerce Honors Farooq Mirza for Championing Pakistani Products in the US
By: Dilshad Hadi
Islamabad, October – In a vibrant celebration of women’s entrepreneurship and international trade, the Women Chamber of Commerce Islamabad (WCCI) hosted a special function at the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) Building to honor Farooq Mirza for her pivotal role in promoting Pakistani handmade products on the global stage.
The event, attended by over 300 women artisans who craft exquisite hand-woven garments, home-based development items, and other artisanal products destined for international markets, underscored the growing impact of Pakistani women in the export sector. Organized by WCCI Chairperson Samina Fazli, alongside Sohail Malik, Chairman of the Coordination Committee of the FPCCI, and other dedicated members, the gathering highlighted Mirza’s tireless efforts in bridging local talent with global opportunities.
Farooq Mirza, a dynamic advocate for women’s economic empowerment, was presented with a ceremonial shield by Fazli, Malik, fellow female entrepreneurs, and the WCCI executive body. The accolade recognizes her instrumental contributions during a recent visit to the United States, where she orchestrated a high-profile business networking dinner in honor of Samina Fazli.
During the US trip, Mirza facilitated crucial introductions between Fazli and directors of prominent American chambers of commerce, fostering potential partnerships for Pakistani exporters. She also played a key role in forging a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between WCCI Islamabad and the Turkish Chamber of Commerce, opening new avenues for bilateral trade.
Mirza’s influence extended to diplomatic circles as well. She engaged with Pakistani diplomats, trade and investment ministers, and the Consul General of Pakistan in the US, advocating for greater visibility of homegrown Pakistani products. Her initiatives have not only spotlighted the craftsmanship of women artisans but also empowered them through capacity-building programs, instilling confidence and independence in their entrepreneurial journeys.
“It is a profound honor to introduce the ingenuity of Pakistani women to America,” said Samina Fazli in her address. “Farooq Mirza’s passion has transformed handmade treasures into symbols of global trade, promoting women’s empowerment and sustainable development. She has shown the world that Pakistani products deserve a place on the international stage.”
Sohail Malik echoed these sentiments, praising Mirza’s enthusiasm for international collaboration. “Through her vision, we’ve seen hundreds of women turn their skills into viable businesses, exporting to markets far and wide. This is the essence of true empowerment.”
The ceremony concluded on an optimistic note, with participants expressing renewed commitment to expanding export networks. As one artisan shared, “Farooq Sahiba didn’t just open doors for us—she built bridges to the world.”
Mirza’s story is a testament to the rising tide of women-led innovation in Pakistan, proving that with determination and strategic networking, local crafts can conquer global markets.
