There is no doubt that Sidra Iqbal has always been an inspirer, a leader, and the harbinger of change in our generation. Besides being an exceptional broadcast journalist who discusses important topics, she is also an avid advocate for women’s empowerment. Always seen promoting equality for both genders, she recently attended a conference hosted by FrieslandCampina Engro Pakistan, titled Rural Women Rising. The conference was held in Islamabad earlier this month to highlight the progress of rural women reclaiming financial independence, by becoming enterprising ‘Agreprineurs’. The theme fitting the title was “breaking barriers and empowering women through the dairy value chain” and Sidra’s presence and words, as a successful self-made woman, were not only inspiring but essential for all those in attendance.
Several women from rural areas in Sindh and Punjab came forward to discuss inspiring personal stories of how they gained economic empowerment through hard work and dedication, proving themselves to be equal to men in the farming industry among other sectors, in the process. These women are actively shattering the glass ceiling and deserve to be celebrated, just as the event highlighted their combined accolades and ongoing journeys. And who better than the powerhouse herself, Sidra Iqbal to guide as a pivotal role model for women overall. Since Iqbal has been a moderator, host, and notable speaker at several esteemed events, she was a perfect fit for getting the conversation on rural women’s empowerment going. In a boardroom a day prior to the main event, she asked the powerful ladies to share their experiences of how they overcame challenges and was almost overcome with emotion by the responses she got. Lack of education, healthcare, and transport was discussed, also, as to how these women had managed to rise above this adversity while gaining financial independence through their own hard work.
Sidra Iqbal also posted clips of the inspiring tales told in the boardroom amongst the brilliant women. Her caption stated as followed, “Do you know 67% of Pakistan’s agricultural workforce comprises of women, while 60% of their work is being utilized as unpaid! This must change. Last weekend, FrieslandCampina, Engro Foods presented me with a wonderful opportunity to meet and learn from these brilliant change agents – from fields in Vehari to the boardroom in Serena Islamabad – their journey has been tedious but awe-inspiring. Here are some glimpses of their passionate life stories as they were trained to build capacity, become financially empowered entrepreneurs and improve the sustainability of their farms.” Sidra Iqbal continues to put her best forward in women’s empowerment. As a woman leader who is always pushing for change for a better, more equal society, we just can’t wait to see what this powerhouse does next!
