(www.thenewslark.com)
By Brig Karrar Shah, R
In a remarkable initiative aimed at empowering the youth of Pakistan and guiding them towards self-reliance and innovation, a grand Entrepreneurship and Small Business Exhibition was held at the Arts Council of Pakistan, Karachi. The event was a joint venture of the National Assembly for Youth and the Sindh Government’s Ministry of Youth Affairs.
Organized and anchored by a very beautiful, talented, and devoted couple
Abida Sherazi and Agha Sherazi, along with a senior journalist Mazhar Abbas, the event witnessed enthusiastic participation from students, aspiring entrepreneurs, professionals, and business leaders across Pakistan.
The goal of the event was to encourage entrepreneurial thinking among the youth, provide insights into small business development, and guide the participants on how to contribute to the national economy through innovation, resilience, and responsible business practices.
Dignitaries and Speakers Who Inspired the Youth
The exhibition was graced by distinguished personalities from various walks of life who delivered inspiring speeches and shared valuable insights with the attending youth.
Brigadier (Retired) Syed Karrar Hussain Shah
As a guest of honour, Brigadier (Retired) Syed Karrar delivered an inspiring and passionate keynote address. He stated:
> “The time has come for Pakistan’s youth to rise and take charge. After Pakistan’s recent victory over India, the world is beginning to recognize our nation as a resilient and successful state. This has opened the door to countless new opportunities—especially in the fields of innovation, startups, and SMEs.”
Brigadier Karrar Hussain, R, emphasized the significance of self-reliance and informed the youth that SMEs (Small and Medium Enterprises) are the backbone of any successful economy. He particularly appreciated Bank AL Habib’s outstanding role in supporting SMEs in Pakistan, praising their professionalism and commitment to customer service:
> “Bank AL Habib is setting an example for other financial institutions by providing exceptional support to small businesses and entrepreneurs across Pakistan.”
He urged young people to think beyond traditional career paths and actively pursue their business ideas through the many public-private support systems now available.
Razzak Pardesi — Business Leader and Philanthropist
Razzak Pardesi, a well-known businessman and social entrepreneur, shared his journey and wisdom. He highlighted the importance of resilience, ethical business practices, and thinking beyond profits:
> “Entrepreneurship is not just about making money. It’s about solving real problems and creating value for society. Every challenge you face will become your lesson, and every failure is a stepping stone to success.”
He encouraged the youth to believe in themselves and not be discouraged by initial setbacks.
Dr. Farhan Essa — Healthcare Innovator and motivational speaker
Dr. Farhan Essa, a renowned figure in Pakistan’s healthcare sector, connected entrepreneurship to public service. In his speech, he said:
> “A successful entrepreneur understands the needs of the people and offers innovative, sustainable solutions. The youth of Pakistan must blend business with compassion. Solve a problem, serve your community—and success will follow.”
He also pointed out the importance of ethical leadership and long-term vision in establishing impactful ventures.
Akram Dhareja — Author and Cultural Advocate
Well-respected writer and cultural expert Akram Dhareja reflected on how entrepreneurship is deeply rooted in Pakistan’s heritage. He said:
> “Our saints and ancestors always emphasized hard work, dignity of labour, and self-sufficiency. Today’s youth must look at entrepreneurship not as a modern trend but as a continuation of a proud legacy.”
He encouraged participants to explore traditional industries, crafts, agriculture, and local innovation as viable business avenues.
Dr. Rasheed Jamal — Educationist
Dr. Rasheed Jamal focused on the role of educational institutions and policy in shaping a culture of innovation:
> “Our universities must include entrepreneurship in their curriculum. The real test of education is not only producing job seekers but job creators.”
He advocated for practical training, business incubation centres, and strong partnerships between academia and the business community.
Government Perspective: Projects for Youth Empowerment
The Sindh Government’s Ministry of Youth Affairs was represented by their very professional and energetic director,
Mr. Habib, who shared key details about government initiatives aimed at youth development.
> “We are proud to have launched several programs including Youth Incubation Centres, Freelancing Bootcamps, Business Skill Development courses, and accessible micro-loan schemes for young entrepreneurs. Our aim is to equip the youth with tools and resources to succeed in digital and real economies.”
Mr. Habib encouraged youth to take full advantage of these schemes and emphasized that the government is committed to creating an enabling environment for innovation and enterprise.
Syed Habib Marjan Mashadi — Youth Representative
A passionate speech by Syed Habib Marjan Mashadi further boosted the morale of the attendees. As a young leader himself, he resonated deeply with the aspirations of the audience:
> “This is not the time to wait for opportunities. It’s time to create them. We must transform from job seekers to job givers. The power of digital media, freelancing, and e-commerce has made it possible for every young Pakistani to launch a global career from their home.”
He emphasized discipline, continuous learning, and time management as keys to personal and professional success.
Exhibition Highlights: From Ideas to Action
The event featured more than 50 interactive exhibition stalls representing startups, vocational institutes, women entrepreneurs, local craftsmen, and youth-led enterprises. Highlights included:
Handcrafted products by female artisans
Tech-based startups offering digital marketing and software solutions
Organic farming and agro-based innovations
Freelancing platforms and graphic design services
Education & skill development booths
Visitors—many of them students and aspiring entrepreneurs—engaged with stallholders, exchanged ideas, explored funding options, and discussed collaborations.
Workshops and mentorship sessions were also held on:
How to Start a Business in Pakistan
Financial Management for Startups
Pitching Your Idea to Investors
Digital Skills and Freelancing Careers
Closing Remarks and Future Vision
In their closing remarks, the event organizers Abida Sherazi, Agha Sherazi, and Mazhar Abbas thanked the speakers, guests, volunteers, and participants for their overwhelming support
They emphasized that the event was just the beginning of a larger movement. Similar exhibitions and training events will be held across Sindh and other provinces to promote an entrepreneurial ecosystem for Pakistan’s youth.
A set of strategic recommendations was also presented, including:
Incorporating entrepreneurship in school and college curriculums
Establishing more youth-friendly financing mechanisms
Launching targeted entrepreneurship programs for women
Promoting partnerships between government, private sector, and academia
Developing strong awareness campaigns about existing youth initiatives
Conclusion: A New Dawn for Pakistan’s Youth
The Entrepreneurship and Small Business Exhibition in Karachi proved to be more than just an event — it was a vibrant movement that showcased the potential of Pakistan’s youth. From powerful speeches to insightful interactions and innovative product displays, the event served as a beacon of hope and direction.
In the words of Brigadier Karrar:
> “Pakistan’s real strength is not just in its mountains or minerals — it’s in its youth. If guided, empowered, and supported, this youth can build a Pakistan that is not just self-sufficient but globally respected.”
With such collective efforts by the government, business leaders, and civil society, there’s every reason to believe that Pakistan is on the path to becoming an entrepreneurial powerhouse.
