For women, financial instability is a particularly significant source of stress, often compounded by limited opportunities to acquire professional skills, limited access to financial resources, and caregiving responsibilities. This financial strain impacts both mental and physical health, leading to a cycle of stress and instability that becomes hard to break without support or a stable financial foundation.

With financial support from DFAT and in partnership with Sarhad Rural Support Program (SRSP), United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is empowering women in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa through its skills programme at Women and Girls Friendly Spaces. This initiative provides women with the skills and resources needed to achieve financial independence, helping them to better support their families and reduce the stress caused by economic instability. By fostering self-sufficiency, the program not only strengthens the women’s ability to contribute positively to their communities but also enhances their mental health and overall well-being. 
 

“We are making all possible efforts to ensure that all measures are in place to support GBV risk mitigation, prevention and response with special focus on vulnerable groups. The journey of Naseem social and economic empowerment in her community is one effort towards achieving UNFPA goal of ending gender based violence”.  Mahjabeen Qazi -UNFPA Programme Coordinator Khyber Pakhtunkhwa 

Naseem Gul, from Pakha Ghulam, Peshawar, faced immense challenges managing her household while caring for her husband, who suffers from a mental health condition. The burden of these responsibilities caused her significant stress, especially as financial difficulties weighed heavily on her. During her search for support, she discovered the Women Girls Friendly Space (WGFS) in Pakha Ghulam, where she learned about mental health and gained valuable skills to help her earn an income. It was here that Naseem realized that her financial instability was a primary source of her stress.

Through the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), in partnership with the Sarhad Rural Support Programme (SRSP), she was introduced to the livelihood program that provided her with essential skills. This training, focused on making and packaging local food products like Achaar (pickles), Muraba (preserves), Squash, and Rooh Afza, gave her the confidence and ability to become financially independent. 

“I did not expect that a short training session would have such a big impact on my life. However, after getting training, I learned new skills that I am now using regularly to support my household. Because of this, I no longer have to rely on other people and can now take care of my family on my own using the skills i acquired” Ms. Naseem Gul

After completing the training, Naseem started a small home-based business selling these traditional products. Her items quickly gained popularity in nearby neighborhoods, and she began earning around PKR 18,000 per month. This new income supported her to cover household expenses and support her husband, lifting a significant financial burden. Her Achaar, Muraba, and other products are well-loved in the local market, and her growing success has inspired other women in her community. 

Now a mentor to women in her family and neighborhood, Naseem encourages them to learn new skills and start their own businesses, motivating others to pursue financial independence. Her journey, which began with mental health assistance at the WGFS, has blossomed into a powerful story of empowerment through the UNFPA and SRSP livelihood program. Naseem Gul's success highlights the transformative impact of addressing both emotional and financial challenges. She is a role model in her community, showing that with the right support and opportunities, anyone can rise above adversity and build a better future. 

“Naseem’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of community support. We believe that every woman has the potential to succeed, and we’re here to help them realize that potential.” SRSP

Recently, Naseem was introduced to an organization that will help her improve her skills, expand her business network, and boost her sales. With their support, she is determined to further grow her business, empowering herself and her family even more.