International Women’s Day: YDF celebrates minority women entrepreneurs’ achievements

LAHORE: The Youth Development Foundation (YDF) brought together diplomats, lawmakers, religious leaders, and development partners in Lahore on March 5 to celebrate the achievements of minority women entrepreneurs at the Minority Women Business Summit 2026, held in commemoration of International Women’s Day.

The summit marked a milestone for participants of the POWER — Minority Women Business Incubation Program, a YDF-led initiative designed to equip minority women with practical business skills, financial literacy, and digital tools to launch and sustain their own enterprises. More than 200 women attended the graduation ceremony, where participants showcased their products and business journeys through entrepreneurship stalls, reflecting the growing potential of women-led enterprises in underserved communities.

Hungary’s Ambassador to Pakistan, HE Dr Zoltán Varga, was among the distinguished guests and underscored the significance of the programme. “Supporting minority women entrepreneurs strengthens communities and creates opportunities for inclusive economic development,” he said, adding that Hungary takes pride in backing initiatives that promote dignity and resilience among women.

Falbous Christopher, MPA and Chairman of the Parliamentary Minority Caucus Punjab, stressed that economic empowerment of minority women remains central to inclusive national development, reaffirming the caucus’s commitment to ensuring equal opportunities for minority communities. Bishop Nadeem Kamran of Lahore echoed this sentiment, noting that skill-building programmes of this nature strengthen families and foster social harmony.

Shahid Rehmat, Executive Director of YDF, said the POWER programme proved that with the right mentorship and resources, minority women can build thriving businesses and achieve lasting economic independence.

The event also featured a recognition ceremony honouring outstanding participants for their innovation, leadership, and social impact, reaffirming the collective resolve of all stakeholders to advance women’s economic inclusion across Pakistan.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026