December 8, 2024 - Shehersaaz successfully launched its first ever Eco-Market, creating an inspiring space to celebrate sustainability and environmental consciousness. Held at a carefully selected venue that complemented the natural ambiance, the event was part of the organization’s longstanding environmental campaign, "Ain-Amal," which began in 2013.

The Eco-Market brought together 15 eco-friendly businesses showcasing sustainable products ranging from reusable packaging to organic skincare and eco-conscious crafts. A live food court, featuring a variety of delicious and sustainably prepared dishes, added a lively and engaging element to the event. To reinforce the market's eco-friendly ethos, all materials used during the event were sustainable, contributing to an environmentally responsible gathering.

The event was graced by the presence of Ms. Rina, Chairperson of IWMB, and Ms. Samina Fazil, President of the Islamabad Women Chamber of Commerce and Industry, as chief guests. Ms. Rina commended Shehersaaz for its dedication to environmental stewardship, while Ms. Samina Fazil highlighted the empowering impact of the Eco-Market on women entrepreneurs and sustainable businesses.

Another highlight of the event was a special moment when Ms. Almas Shakoor, Executive Director of Shehersaaz, personally presented each stallholder with a beautifully crafted ceramic souvenir. This gesture not only recognized their contributions but also underscored Shehersaaz’s commitment to fostering eco-friendly entrepreneurship. Ms. Shakoor expressed her heartfelt appreciation for their dedication to promoting sustainable practices.

Mr. Abdul Shakoor, Chairperson of Shehersaaz, also addressed the audience, sharing his insightful perspective on the importance of such markets in driving environmental change. He emphasized the significance of creating platforms like the Eco-Market to inspire communities to adopt eco-conscious habits and thanked the Shehersaaz team for their exceptional efforts in making the inaugural event a resounding success.

Shehersaaz believes that eco-markets are crucial for fostering environmental awareness and action. These markets encourage communities to support sustainable businesses, adopt eco-conscious lifestyles, and reduce their environmental impact. By uniting stakeholders across various sectors, such events reflect Shehersaaz’s unwavering commitment to a greener future.

Building on the success of this inaugural event, Shehersaaz is thrilled to announce that the next Eco-Market will take place in February 2025. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to champion sustainability and innovation for a healthier planet.

Shehersaaz Presents: The ECO-Market

Date: December 8, 2024
Time: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Venue: Islamabad Wildlife Management Board Office, Old Marghazar Zoo, Islamabad

Celebrating Sustainability and Style

Shehersaaz is proud to announce its highly anticipated ECO-Market, a vibrant event dedicated to sustainability, innovation, and green living. This unique gathering invites eco-conscious businesses, entrepreneurs, and the local community to connect, collaborate, and celebrate environmentally friendly products and practices.

What to Expect at the ECO-Market

The ECO-Market is more than an event—it’s a movement toward a greener, more responsible lifestyle. Visitors can explore:

• Eco-Friendly Products: Discover high-quality, sustainable alternatives, from biodegradable packaging to ethically sourced jewelry, organic foods, and more.


• Elite Eco-Living: Engage with Islamabad’s elite community as they explore the intersection of luxury and sustainability.


• Inspiring Concepts: Learn from businesses that are shaping the future of responsible consumption and green entrepreneurship.

Our Mission

• Promote Eco-Consciousness: Inspire individuals to make sustainable choices through their purchases and lifestyle.


• Support Green Entrepreneurship: Provide a prestigious platform for eco-businesses to showcase their innovative, planet-friendly products.


• Connect Communities: Create meaningful connections among like-minded individuals and organizations to foster a more sustainable urban environment.

Why You Should Attend

The ECO-Market offers a carefully curated experience that balances luxury with environmental responsibility. Whether you're an eco-enthusiast, a green entrepreneur, or simply curious about sustainable living, this event is the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of eco-goodness.

Join Us

Mark your calendar for December 8, 2024, and head to the Old Marghazar Zoo for a day of sustainability, style, and inspiration. Let’s work together to support local businesses, embrace green living, and contribute to a healthier planet.

Follow Shehersaaz on social media for updates and sneak peeks into the ECO-Market lineup!

Venue Location & Direction

‘Death of a River’ a short film by Shehersaaz Selected for Screening at Urban Cinema, World Urban Forum 2024, Cairo 

 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SPqoZDOAtbA

 

We are excited to announce that ‘Death of a River’, a short film by Shehersaaz, has been selected for screening at the World Urban Forum’s (WUF12) Urban Cinema in Cairo. This selection highlights our dedication to environmental storytelling and awareness campaigning, as we highlighted the critical condition of the Layi River in Pakistan, a once-thriving waterway now severely degraded due to human activities and negligence.

‘Death of a River’ delves into the multifaceted impact of urban pollution, industrial waste, and unregulated settlements that have transformed this vital river into a source of concern rather than life. Once a central community hub, the river now faces an alarming environmental decline, exacerbating flood risks and reducing the quality of life for surrounding communities.

This film screening at WUF12 underscores the urgency of protecting urban rivers worldwide. Rivers, which play a key role in maintaining ecological balance, are at the forefront of climate resilience efforts. With climate change causing increasingly severe weather patterns, the state of our rivers reflects broader environmental vulnerabilities. It is crucial to mobilize both communities and governments to take active steps in river restoration and adopt sustainable practices, not only to prevent further damage but also to reinforce resilience against climate-related challenges.

Join us in celebrating this achievement, and let’s continue to advocate for cleaner, resilient urban environments. Every step towards protecting our rivers is a step toward safeguarding our future.

 

Visit World Urban Forum Website to read more

 

 

October 9, 2024, Shehersaaz, in collaboration with AIOU, marked the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction with a dynamic event aimed at enhancing disaster preparedness and response skills among youth. Rescue 1122 Rawalpindi and CARES CDA Rescue 1122 led practical demonstrations on first aid and fire extinguishing techniques, equipping participants with life-saving skills. Around 200 students and faculty members actively participated in the training, reflecting a strong commitment to safety and disaster readiness.

Dr. Saima Nasir, Director ORIC, and Director Administration were present to witness the event, alongside Registrar Mr. Raja Younis, who was handed over a First Aid kit as a symbol of strengthened emergency preparedness on campus. The Medical Officer also joined the ceremony, further emphasizing the importance of health and safety protocols.

A significant highlight of the day was the inauguration of the Rainwater Harvesting Unit (RWHU), which marks a crucial step in sustainable water management at AIOU. An MoU was signed between Shehersaaz's Executive Director, Ms. Almas Shakoor, and the Registrar, cementing a partnership that promises ongoing collaboration in disaster risk reduction and sustainability.

Youth preparedness plays a pivotal role in shaping resilient communities. By equipping students with the knowledge and skills to respond to disasters, we are fostering a generation that can lead change and contribute to a safer, more resilient future. Their active participation in such initiatives is vital in mitigating the risks of natural and man-made disasters, ensuring communities are better equipped to cope with unforeseen challenges.

World Environment Day &

Ain-Amal Awards 2024

June 5, 2024 SHEHERSAAZ hosted a significant event at NUST Islamabad, in celebration of World Environment Day. 

The event, which focused on the theme of land degradation, desertification, and drought resilience, was held in partnership with the Aga Khan Agency for Habitat (AKAH), Cheezious and FM101, supported by UN-Habitat, Adaptation Fund and Ministry of Climate Change. 

Notable guests included Ms. Nusrat Nasab CEO AKAH who shared insightful remarks, Principal and Dean SCEE, Mr. Muhammad Irfan, who shared his remarks, and Dr. Rizwan Riaz, Pro-Rector (RIC) NUST, who congratulated Shehersaaz and their partners on the successful event.

A dynamic panel discussion was also held, addressing critical environmental challenges and potential solutions for building resilience against desertification and drought. An Environment Song was showcased which really built up energy by Mr. Furqan Ahmad, an impactful drama was also presented by students of NUST by the name "Faryad" which truly took away lots of praise. Call for Environment Movies was made by Mr.Syed Husnain Raza, founder PIWEFF. Videos on Land Degradation and Death of a River were presented by Shehersaaz. 

Winners of Ain-Amal Awards were presented the first living awards in Pakistan ever to be presented in celebrating green projects and initiatives. Winners were also presented cash prizes along with cerificates.