Islamabad: News Desk
The Youth Development Association (YDA), a women-led organization dedicated to empowering women, held a certificate awarding ceremony to honor 78 female trainees who completed programs in beautician training, fashion designing, tie-dye, and small business management. The event, attended by community leaders and YDA staff, showcased the organization’s commitment to economic empowerment and social development.
The ceremony began with a prayer led by Pastor Emmanuel Jalal, and Fiaz Bhatti, who served as the event’s host, welcomed guests and introduced the agenda. Speaking at the event, Mr. Laiqat Masih, Head of Operations at YDA, shared insights into the organization’s journey. He highlighted that YDA’s training programs have significantly impacted the lives of women, enabling them to earn incomes and support their families.
Ms. Maria Pervez, YDA’s Social Mobilization Officer, detailed recent initiatives aimed at empowering women and youth. She noted that YDA also addresses mental health issues and supports both formal and informal education, with a strong focus on economic development. This ceremony was part of YDA’s ongoing effort to equip women with skills that can enhance their livelihoods.
Ms. Maria Siddique, who has worked with YDA for nine years, emphasized the positive societal impact of these training programs. Alongside Ms. Rubina Bhatti, CEO of YDA, she has helped organize training sessions, witnessing firsthand the role of trained women as economic contributors within their communities. Ms. Nyla, a trainer in dress designing and sewing, expressed pride in her role, and Ms. Sonia Mohsin, a trainee, thanked YDA for the opportunity, sharing that she has already begun earning income from her new skills. Mrs. Sidra Kashif, who completed both teacher and beautician training, also expressed gratitude, noting the value of YDA’s efforts for family economic development.
Mr. Syed Ishtiaq Gilani, a guest speaker, praised YDA’s initiatives and suggested that the organization consider introducing advanced skill courses in digital literacy, social media, web design, and online trading. He offered his organization’s support for potential collaboration on these new programs.
The event also included an exhibition of handmade dresses and other items created by the trainees. Mr. Laiqat Masih encouraged attendees to support the trainees by purchasing the displayed items, which many guests enthusiastically did.
The ceremony underscored YDA’s dedication to women’s empowerment and its expanding role in Islamabad’s economic development landscape.
