More than fifty guest ladies gathered at Airport Housing Society, Islamabad, for a Mother’s Day event organised by Ms. Tahira Ashfaq in coordination with Ms. Salma Shah, with cooperation from Esshaal Cosmetics and support by Ms. Uzma. Prominent local names including Shazia Yaqoob and Saima Shahid helped shape a programme focused on women, families and community welfare while underlining the importance of Women Empowerment.
The event reiterated that every day belongs to mothers, and participants offered special prayers for deceased mothers as well as prayers for the health, long life and happiness of living mothers. Speakers reflected on mothers as the centre of family life and the emotional backbone of society, reminding attendees of generations of women who managed households with patience, sacrifice and strength.
Discussion turned to the expanding responsibilities of today’s mothers who balance home, work and community roles. The gathering highlighted how recognition and encouragement can give confidence to women who quietly support families through home-based work, and how such recognition is a practical step toward broader Women Empowerment across neighbourhoods and cities.
A key aim of the event was to promote women-run home businesses. Organisers showcased women who prepare handmade items, run small enterprises, and contribute to household income through embroidery, casual and bridal dresses, handicrafts and other cultural products. Speakers urged that these skills are part of Pakistan’s identity and can earn respect and income if supported and properly promoted.
Activities included an engaging quiz led by Tahira that helped create a friendly, joyful atmosphere among guests. The organisers praised Cakes N Cake for providing a beautifully decorated and delicious Mother’s Day cake, noting the presentation and taste as examples of creativity and hard work by a local entrepreneur.
The programme carried a clear roadmap for strengthening Women Empowerment: identify and register skilled women from cities and villages, promote handmade products through exhibitions, fashion shows and online platforms, and provide training in modern design, packaging, marketing and e-commerce so women can reach national and international markets.
Speakers called for practical support from government, the private sector and overseas Pakistanis in the form of financial assistance, interest free loans, and business opportunities. They also proposed a permanent national forum to promote traditional handmade products and guide women entrepreneurs, and asked educational institutions and media to teach young people about Pakistani culture and the value of handmade goods under the Made in Pakistan identity.
Organisers said the day was a celebration of love for mothers and a step toward creating economic options for women at home. They recommended local businesses showcased at the event, prayed for their success, and urged continued community support to turn traditional skills into sustainable livelihoods.
