For Robina Kousar, creativity has become the foundation of a growing family business. Living in Lahore with her husband and children, she has spent many years crafting artificial flower necklaces, carefully designing and assembling lifelike blooms that capture the beauty of fresh flowers. Through experience and attention to detail, she has refined her skills in shaping, colouring and arranging artificial petals, leaves and stems into attractive, long-lasting creations.
Despite her talent, financial pressures made it difficult for the family to get ahead. Her husband's income from a private-sector job was limited, and Robina wanted to contribute more towards household expenses but lacked the capital needed to start a business of her own.
After learning about Akhuwat, Lendwithcare's local partner in Pakistan, from a neighbour, Robina applied for a loan to launch a home-based enterprise. The funding enabled her to purchase the materials needed to begin producing artificial flower garlands and necklaces for sale.
Soon afterwards, her husband lost his job and joined the business full-time. Together, they expanded their operations, with Robina creating the products at home while her husband sold them in a busy local market. Their combined efforts helped the business grow into a reliable source of income and provided greater financial stability for the family.
Looking ahead, Robina and her husband hope to expand their business beyond their local area and reach customers in other cities across Pakistan. They also aspire to create opportunities for others by employing local artisans, increasing production and sharing their skills with other women in the community through training and mentorship.
Robina remains deeply grateful to Akhuwat and Lendwithcare for the support they provided during a challenging period in her life. She believes their assistance helped turn a small home-based venture into a growing business with the potential to benefit both her family and her wider community.