ISLAMABAD: Mohammad Amir, a transgender woman from Narowal, gave up asking for money on the streets and started her own business after obtaining a loan under an initiative by the Pakistan Poverty Alleviation Fund (PPAF), Citi Foundation and other local partner organisations.

Speaking at the Citi-PPAF Micro Entrepreneurship Awards (CMA) on Tuesday, Ms Amir said she had found that the more difficult part was turning away from her old lifestyle and adopting a normal routine.

The awards were launched by PPAF and the Citi Foundation for those who had benefited from an affordable loan from any finance provider and those who have contributed to the local economy in the community, city or province they operate in.

After she was given the award, Ms Amir said she was encouraged by a resident of Narowal to stop earning by praying, dancing and seeking alms and to take out a small loan and start her own business.

“When I applied for a loan of Rs20,000, I was given a brief training by a partner NGO of PPAF and I started a second hand clothes shop some three years ago. I repaid this amount and sought another loan of Rs40,000 to enhance my business to include second hand bags and shoes as well. I repaid that loan in a year as well,” she said.

With her savings, Ms Amir now plans to open up a franchise outlet of a national beauty parlour in Narowal.

Other winners of the award include Zakiya Bibi from Sheikhupura who manufactures rubber auto spare parts with her business employing about 16 people. She has since established a local supply chain.

Some 20 micro entrepreneurs were selected for the awards from around 300 applicants from across the country. The programme was launched in Pakistan in 2005 by the Citi Foundation and PPAF to promote Pakistan’s micro finance sector.

PPAF is involved in community-driven development and operates throughout the country. It has partnered with 130 organisations and is working in over 99,000 villages and settlements.

Published in Dawn, April 5th, 2017