By Rafiq Vayani
DUBAI/KARACHI: The Pakistan Cultural Festival, organized by Sparks Business Club, concluded 13th September 2024, at Habitt City, leaving an indelible mark on the city’s cultural landscape. The event, powered by Cosmos Realtor & Strategic Partner was Tamiirat Pakistan.
In Pakistan Cultural Festival, Showcased the best of Pakistan’s talent, innovation, and entrepreneurship. The festival featured 70 stalls, offering a diverse range of “Made in Pakistan” products, from handicrafts to Apparel, Shoes, Jewellery, Handicraft, Painting, Food and many more.
MAAS WORLD INC’s generous donation of 10 free stalls to under privileged crafters was a highlight of the event. Chief Guest, Ms. Shaheena Sheer Ali, Minister for Women Development, Sindh, inaugurated the festival, praising the initiative for promoting local artisans and entrepreneurs. “This platform is crucial for empowering women and marginalized communities,” she said.
Prominent personalities, including Mr. Razzak Pardesi, Patron-in-Chief, Sparks Business Club; Mr. Rauf Tabani, Chairman, Help International; and Mr. Mahmood Ahmed, Director Star Marketing, Mrs. Tasneem Kausar, Mrs Nausheen Burkat, Mrs Syeda Sumana Ali, Mr. Rafq Vayani, Mr Syed Turab Shah, Mr Rehmatullah Memon, Mr. Qazi Nauman Mujahid, Mr. Nouman Ahmed & Mr. Mudassir Alam graced the occasion.
The event also featured two insightful panel discussions for awareness of audience:
Panel 1: The Beauty Business
Mrs. Naheed Khan, Mrs. Nazia Qasim & Saba Mohsin
The panelists shared valuable insights on the current Beauty Industry Facing the challenges, and opportunities for growth.
Panel 2: Entrepreneurship and Innovation – Women-Led Businesses Making a Difference
Mrs. Sarwat Nasim Shah, Naveed Khan & Syeda Raafia Hasan
This panel highlighted the successes and challenges faced by women entrepreneurs in Pakistan, emphasizing the need for support and empowerment.
Syeda Raafia Hasan, Founder & Chairperson, Sparks Business Club, expressed her gratitude to the attendees and partners. “This is just the beginning. We will continue to organize events that promote Made in Pakistan products and support our crafters. Our mission is to provide a platform for local entrepreneurs to thrive.”
Mr. Jaffer Hussain, Executive Director, Sparks Business Club, emphasized the importance of supporting local businesses. “We want to encourage local businesses and local brands based on Home based businesses & Startups to support our economy. By promoting Made in Pakistan products, we can create jobs, stimulate growth, and showcase Pakistan’s potential.”
Mrs. Naghma Aqeel, President, Sparks Business Club, reiterated the organization’s commitment to social responsibility. “Sparks Business Club is always ready to support underprivileged entrepreneurs and crafters, providing them with opportunities to grow and succeed.”
Mrs. Sumaira Imran, General Secretary, Sparks Business Club, outlined the organization’s global vision. “Our aim is to create a better impact of Pakistani brands around the globe, promoting cultural exchange and economic cooperation.”
Special appreciation goes to Sakan e Sheeza for their initiative of Purchased 4 stalls to promote the work of special needs females, providing them with a platform to showcase their talents.
Special mention goes to the organizing team for their hard work, particularly, Mrs. Fouzia Adnan LW.
President, SBC Creative Art & Home Textile Committee. Ms. Asma Rehman, President, SBC Handicraft Committee, Ms Iqra Siddique Coordinator SBC Handicraft Committee, Ms. Nariman Khawar Coordinator SBC Beauty Professionalsm, Asma Tabassum, Hima Imran, Asma Wajid, Sohail Iqbal Memon & Team of energetic Volunteers.
Their tireless efforts and dedication were instrumental in making the event a resounding success. The Pakistan Cultural Festival 2024 has not only celebrated Pakistani culture but also contributed to the economic development of the region.