This story is about my struggles as an Entrepreneur, founder of Asqurr. Mom of three, two living with me and one is in heaven. Daughter is 6 and son is 22 months old. My son is precious born with few unusual traits.
He was born with multiple fractures, bilateral clubfoot and a rare genetic condition called CMT. I was told he has OI(osteogenesis imperfecta) also called brittle/ fragile bones. I was not allowed to take him in my lap, no bath and changing diaper was another struggle as doctors said he might get more fractures. Holding my C scar, I had his hospital visits almost daily. I used to cry alot, thinking that Allah is angry as I had lose my son previously after 6 days of his birth. I went into extreme depression. Suicidal thoughts were so regular. The dangerous part was not just killing myself but harming my baby too. But I was wrong. It was all to make me more stronger and to bring out the positivity in me.
With the support of my family, somehow, I came out of it. Since beginning i was kind of a girl who is always active, jolly and friendly. But I had lost myself in these few years. I wanted to compose myself again for myself and my family. Since having a Master’s degree, I knew that doing a job is next to impossible for me because of my son. So thought of doing something at home.
My mom was already into honey extraction in Hunza but only for the family. I always wanted to help her in any way but couldn’t. An idea popped up many times to lend her my help but every time I would tell myself ” Nausheen You Can’t ” .
One fine day after struggling for many days I discussed with my family and as usual found positive response. And wahoooo I thought of a name for the venture, designed a logo, made a facebook page. It’s a saying ” when you desire for something, the whole universe conspires to bring it to you.” I didn’t even launch the product, got an opportunity to attend SAARC women Entrepreneurs’ workshop. I met with some amazing and super ladies. It was in dec 2019. Because of that workshop, I was able to take part in the SAARC exhibition in Feb 2020. It was my first ever exhibition and the response I got was out of this world. And my journey as an Entrepreneur started with a big hit exhibition.
I did everything by myself from buying the honey bottles, printing stickers and bags. My mom use to send me Honey from Hunza and I do the packaging, Marketing and deliveries.
Our story was published at various platforms. We have also started deliveries across Pakistan. Another biggest achievement in 2020 is selection in start-up competition 2020 by IBA. BBC Urdu also approached us to make our documentary. Inshallah soon.
I enrolled myself into different trainings to polish and learn entrepreneurial skills. Which were too beneficial for my venture.
Due to great demand, I have launched WALNUT OIL all the way from Gilgit-Baltistan which is perfect for health, skin and hair.
Points to remember.
* First step is difficult but once you take it, ready to fly.
* Always believe in yourself.
* Accept difficulties as challenge.
* Utilize your own resources.
* Hunt for the opportunities and never miss any of them.
* Connections in your relevant field are very important.
* Learn, unlearn and re learn.
* Keep your faith strong.
