In the heart of Hyderabad, Sindh, Pakistan, there exists a remarkable individual who has defied all odds to carve out a path of success in the world of textile design and entrepreneurship. Meet Naeema Soomro, a multifaceted woman who wears many hats, including Textile Designer, Entrepreneur, Trainer, Teacher, and Secretary General at the Women Chamber of Commerce and Industry Hyderabad-WCCIH. Her story is one of tenacity, passion, and a relentless pursuit of her dreams.
A Journey of Struggle and Resilience
Naeema's journey began in a middle-class family where she nurtured a deep love for arts and design from a young age. As a child, she was captivated by the intricate beauty of traditional prints, and this early fascination planted the seeds for her future career in textile design.
After completing her graduation in Textile Design from the Center of Excellence in Arts & Design (CEAD-Hyderabad), Naeema embarked on a challenging path. The transition from a familiar hometown to the bustling city of Karachi was daunting. She faced the arduous task of finding her footing in a new city, securing a job, and overcoming the fear of navigating the urban landscape alone. But Naeema's philosophy is simple yet profound: "The best personal development is to never quit when it's hard because you get it when you go through the tough process of something in your life."
From Dreams to Reality: NS - Naeema Soomro Clothing
Naeema's passion for textile design led to the creation of her brand, NS - Naeema Soomro Clothing. Her brand is a testament to her love for traditional techniques and the rich cultural heritage of Pakistan. She saw beauty in the traditional textile techniques of her homeland and believed in the skill of local artisans who could make those techniques shine.
In October 2015, Naeema took her first step into the world of entrepreneurship by establishing NS - Naeema Soomro Clothing as an online, home-based business. The journey was not without its share of challenges, from finding suitable human resources and workers to identifying the right platforms to display and sell her products. Being a woman in a male-dominated field brought its own set of hurdles. Nevertheless, Naeema's determination and passion propelled her forward.
With an initial investment of PKR 13,000, she ventured into the world of business. Today, her clothing business is flourishing, garnering praise and recognition. Naeema's resilience in overcoming obstacles like finding skilled workers, adequate workspace, and essential resources demonstrates her unwavering commitment to her passion and dream.
A Lifelong Learner
Naeema's journey didn't stop at starting her business; she recognized the importance of learning the language of business. She embarked on a journey of self-improvement by taking numerous online and physical entrepreneurship courses, training programs, and workshops, both national and international. Her dedication to understanding the intricacies of the business world is a testament to her relentless pursuit of excellence.
Awards, Recognition, and Achievements
Naeema's dedication and hard work have not gone unnoticed. She has participated in numerous exhibitions across cities like Karachi, Hyderabad, and Lahore, collaborating with different organizers. Her work has received awards and accolades, and her story has been featured in various media outlets, from radio to TV channels and e-magazines.
In 2019, Naeema achieved a significant milestone when she was selected for advanced incubation during a six-day residential training program in Islamabad. She was the sole woman chosen from Sindh province. Her business was also awarded a seed grant as part of the Capacity Enhancement Leadership and Linkages Development Program for SMEs, funded by the US State Department.
Inspiration and Future Aspirations
Despite the challenges and hurdles she has faced, Naeema Soomro remains an unyielding source of inspiration. Her journey is a testament to the adage that dreams, when nurtured with unwavering belief, can be realized against all odds. Her brand's selection for the XPOSURE Startup Track at Startup Istanbul 2020 was another feather in her cap, though the event's cancellation due to COVID-19 was a disappointment.
In her own words, "My dream, my passion, and my vision to be successful in life inspire me to keep moving forward." Naeema's story is a reminder that success is not always easy, but it becomes achievable when you make it easy through determination, persistence, and an unshakeable belief in your dreams.
In conclusion, Naeema Soomro's journey is a testament to the power of dreams, hard work, and an indomitable spirit. Her story inspires us to chase our passions, overcome adversity, and believe in the boundless possibilities of life. She serves as a beacon of hope for aspiring entrepreneurs and artists, proving that with dedication and perseverance, one can turn dreams into reality. 