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.

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.

School Based Basic First Aid Trainings

As part of our ongoing (Project for Urban Climate Change Adaptation and Resilience-PUCCAR) Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) activities Shehersaaz in collaboration with Rescue 1122, recently conducted a pioneering certified training session on Basic First Aid, marking a significant stride in disaster risk reduction. 

Over three days May 2nd to May 4th, 2024 students and teachers from the Govt. MC Girls High School Ratta Amral, were equipped with crucial skills in communication, safety protocols, bleeding control, and CPR. These workshops play a pivotal role in empowering communities with lifesaving techniques and fostering a culture of preparedness.
Such training sessions are indispensable as they not only enhance individual capacity but also bolster community resilience in the face of emergencies. By imparting knowledge on immediate response measures, they enable individuals to take proactive steps in mitigating risks and providing timely assistance. Moreover, these workshops foster a sense of collective responsibility, encouraging participants to become agents of change within their communities. Thanks to Rescue 1122 and their Master Trainers for their amazing practical and interactive training sessions which were truly an exciting learning experience. These Trainings shall continue and Shehersaaz will keep providing the opportunity to other Public/Govt School in Rawalpindi in order to prepare the students and teachers to be well equipped while dealing with emergencies. 

In a world fraught with uncertainties, the importance of first aid training cannot be overstated. It serves as a cornerstone in building a safer and more resilient society, where every individual is equipped to respond effectively in times of crisis. Through such initiatives Shehersaaz take strides towards a future where lives are safeguarded, and communities stand united in the face of adversity. We are thankful to our donor Adaptation Fund and UN-HABITAT for providing us the financial support in making a positive impact in our communities and be prepared for any unforeseen emergency.