The White Post Special
Q. Sister Zeph, can you tell us about your early life and the challenges you faced in school?
I studied at Government Girls High School in Arub Village, Gujranwala. As a Christian, I faced many difficulties there. By the time I reached class seven, I couldn’t tolerate it any longer and left school. However, I knew the importance of education and was determined to continue learning.
Q. How did you manage to continue your education after leaving school?
I understood that studying was crucial, not just for me but for other girls in my village who were also unable to complete their education. I started teaching them informally, but without resources like notebooks, they quickly lost interest. I then encouraged them to ask me questions, which I would answer with the help of my father, who was well-informed from reading newspapers and watching the news.
Q. What motivated you to pursue higher education and help others despite these challenges?
I believed that I had to change the education system of Pakistan. I also realized that if I charged fees, the children wouldn’t come. To fund my efforts, I started working as an embroiderer, earning small amounts which I used to support my studies. I eventually completed a double MA from Punjab University through private exams.
Q. Tell us about your professional journey and the impact of social media on your work.
In 2008, I started working in the PTCL Marketing department and later transferred to the head office in 2010, where I had internet access. I began posting pictures of my school on social media, which attracted attention and support from many people. This exposure was crucial in gaining recognition for my work.
Q. How did you get involved with global organizations and win international awards?
In 2011, I responded to a Facebook ad from a global organization seeking volunteers. They trained me on how to work on Facebook, and I later won a global competition, receiving a $20,000 award. With this money, I established a sewing center for women and started offering IT training. Over the years, I’ve received numerous international awards, including the LinkedIn Global Prize and a gold medal from the New York Film Festival.
Q. What initiatives have you taken to empower women and children in your community?
I run a sewing center in Gujranwala where about 200 women learn annually. My school educates 250 students with the help of 16 teachers, offering free education. We also have a special school in Tarigari village for child laborers who work in the morning and attend school in the evening, providing 100 percent free education to around 300 children.
Q. Can you share some highlights from the recognition you received for your work?
After winning the International Teachers Award, I was invited by Shahbaz Sharif to his home and the Prime Minister’s House, where I received the Khatun-e-Pakistan Award (First Lady Award). On March 23, the Army Chief awarded me the Pride of Pakistan Award, and I also received the Women’s Leadership Award from the Governor of Punjab and the Federal Minister of Education.
Q. What challenges do you face as a single mother and a community leader?
Managing everything is challenging as a single mother of two. My children often want to go out, but my work commitments make it difficult. However, I have the support of my parents and the trust of the parents of the children I teach, which keeps me going.
Q. What is your message to those who want to achieve something in life?
To achieve something significant, you must step out of your comfort zone. I’ve faced many challenges but remained committed to my cause for 23 years. Recognition is important, but it’s the support and trust from my family and community that truly drives me forward.
Q. Thank you, Sister Zeph, for sharing your inspiring journey with us.
Thank you for having me. There’s still much more to do, and I’m determined to continue making a difference.