“Koser Parveen belongs to Muhallah Awami Colony in Lahore. A widowed mother of two, Koser decided to step up and become economically self-reliant and seeked CEIP’s help. During a conversation with CEIP, Koser revealed that she is currently married to her second husband who is supportive of her dedication and consistency towards her work.

She started her business by stitching clothes and headscarves with materials brought to her by her clientele. After spending some time on her business, Koser began stitching ready-to-wear articles of clothing from materials she procured herself. Purchasing materials herself meant that Koser had to mortgage or sell items in her household to invest in her business.

CSC saw this as a potential opportunity for intervention and stepped in to provide Koser with access to financial support. She used the funds to procure a sewing machine for her stitching unit and on account of her exceptional sewing skills, was able to make a solid reputation for herself within a short period of time.

She has used her profits to fulfil a lifelong dream of owning her very own house and financing her son’s resettlement to Saudi Arabia. Kauser is a model recipient of financing opportunities from CEIP as she has not only made considerable progress but is also giving back to her community by training several girls to work as part of her stitching unit. She can now save a reasonable amount every month and her living conditions have improved drastically.”