An event held at the historic Mohatta Palace last night, was the culmination of a year-long effort to recognise and applaud Pakistan’s high -achieving women. Ponds Miracle Women was an occasion that focused on dignifying women and appreciating efforts to maintain a home alongside a full-fledged career. The night boasted countless stirring stories.
One of the mentors of Ponds Miracle Women, entrepreneur Anila Weldon, said, “It was an honour to be selected as a Top Ten Miracle Mentor. It was a trip along the admiration of women who have accomplished much for themselves and more so for the other women.”
Stylist Saeeda Mandviwalla, another mentor, talked at length about the learning curve, saying, “I learnt a lot from this process.” From sharing her own journey to comprehending struggles of other women, Mandviwalla was inspired by their achievements, “From the stories I heard, I realise life is not easy. When you are a single mother, life gets tough without financial and family support. Only confidence within can boost the success of objectives.”
One of the mentees of Mandviwalla was Saima Anjarwala — a working woman at a locally-based mission — lost her husband 11 months ago. Instead of breaking down from his sudden demise, Anjarwala decided to take charge of the situation for the sake of her family: “There are times we fear failing in life. It was suddenly all about a working woman paving her path in such a difficult environment. But nonetheless, it is amazing to be a woman, and to be a mother. My children alone are now giving me the strength to win and as a family we are creating a will to realise our goals.”
Dr Sadiah Ahsan Pal was flattered to be included in such an initiative, whereas fashion designer Sanam Chaudhry, who was mentored by designer Shamaeel Ansari, stated, “Shamaeel Ansari nominated me and I have been deeply honoured to have been mentored by her. This came as a pleasant surprise that she chose me.”
Another mentee Shafia Agha, a PR consultant, who was nominated by Anila Weldon, said, “It has been a fulfilling experience, as they lauded our efforts in particular.” Actor Atiqa Odho, another mentor added, “Activities that empower women are crucial for us because we now live in a fundamentalist Pakistan; and efforts like these promote a softer image of the country on the whole.”
Kiran Aman, a publisher, who was nominated by Rukaiya Adamjee, commented, “It was a grand experience and for once I wasn’t working backstage but was invited as a guest.” Appreciating the collaborative effort, she added, “It was a time for recollection. It’s a great initiative for women — finally a platform for other women to get inspired from.”
Mentee Sumeha Khalid, a publicist, commented, “I do hope we as a country continue to support women from all walks of life. Once you are educated, you should use your education to carry out something beneficial and not waste it.”
Published in The Express Tribune, January 16th, 2015.
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