Karachi: The Lean in Pakistan Foundation launched Lean in Girls Pakistan initiative in follow-up to the global launch of Lean in Girls that took place last month in San Francisco, USA, hosted by founder Sheryl Sandberg, former COO of Meta/Facebook.
50 girls and young women were invited from various high schools and universities in Karachi. The launch was titled “Self-Esteem in a Barbie World” and centered around a purpose-driven workshop on self-worth and career development for young Pakistani women and to provide a platform for personal growth.
Sandberg and Lean In CEO Rachel Thomas were inspired to create this new initiative because the adult Lean In community is thriving, with 80,000 circles in 183 countries, growing faster than ever before, but there was need to expand the program to reach girls when they’re particularly susceptible to negative social messages.
Lean in Pakistan Foundation President Tara Uzra Dawood attended the global launch and partnered with Alfalah Digital Banking to bring the initiative to Pakistan.
The support of Alfalah Digital Banking as the venue sponsor was integral to the success of the workshop, as well as the support of Nighat Misbah at Depilex Beauty Clinic as Beauty Partner, and Partners Premo by Xanders, Workhall, Indus Valley School of Art and Architecture, Eadvisory, Szabist, Indus University, Millennium Institute of Technology and Entrepreneurship, and Sceptre College.
Event speakers included Dr. Huma Baqai (Rector, MiTE), Nisha Ghumro (Founder & CEO, Sceptre College), and plus-sized model Sana Sultan. The launch was moderated and chaired by Margaret Fialho, and hosted by Lean In Pakistan Foundation President Tara Uzra Dawood.
“We are very proud that Pakistan is the first country and first Lean in network to launch the powerful initiative of Lean in Girls shortly after the global launch was held in America,” stated Lean in Pakistan Foundation President Tara Uzra Dawood.
“Women in board rooms, corridors of power, and on decision-making tables, we will write our own destiny,” added Dr. Huma Baqai.
“To bring Lean In Girls to Pakistan is a great initiative by Sheryl Sandberg and Tara Uzra Dawood! This is the age where young girls need the most nurturing, mentoring, and following the right role models!” said Sana Sultan, adding, “Tara Uzra has always been very passionate about supporting women, I believe that Lean In Girls will flourish in Pakistan under her supervision!“
“Empowering women financially is not just about money, it’s about taking control of their destinies and having the freedom to do it on their own terms,” said Nisha Ghumro, Founder & CEO of Sceptre College.
Margaret Fialho will be chairing Lean in Girls Pakistan with a full curriculum training expected in early September. This is free for girls and young women. To attend, please contact the Lean in Pakistan Foundation.
