There is a dialogue in the movie Manjhi, “Don’t rely on God, who knows, God is relying on you.” In simple words, those who have the ability to fight their financial difficulties or other struggles, success never turns their backs on them. Gradually, success stories have been emerging from the once gun-ridden Valley of Kashmir as it is slowly getting back to normal to stand in unity with the country. The earlier practice of strikes and bandhs is a thing of the past and the Valley is witnessing strokes of peace, progress and prosperity.

Youngsters, though not having much opportunities or exposure, are still scripting an inspiring tale with very little that they get. Whether it is about themselves touching new highs in career or helping the needy in the society and giving their dreams wings to fly and in the days to come, their contribution to nation building will not be less than anyone.

One such story is of Tawheeda Akthar, daughter of a labourer from the Valley.

Tawheeda Akthar’s father used to work as a domestic servant to earn his living, due to which his family could barely survive. That’s why there was always a shortage of money in his house. This is the reason why she had to leave her studies after 12th class. She wanted to do something for her family and siblings. Recalling this, 30-year-old Tawheeda says, “My father was a laborer and could not afford to educate me. However, I refused to sit idle at home and enrolled myself in Bemina Industrial Training Institute (ITI) , where I learned how to sew and sew clothes. I worked hard and was at the top of my class, which gave me the confidence to try new things in life.” However, her journey was not so easy, she says, “Many times, I didn’t even have enough money for the fare to travel by bus. However, the tough times only forced me to provide good education to my brothers and sisters. “Inspired to fulfill my dream and work harder.”
Tawheeda has three elder brothers and one younger sister. Her first success came when she participated in a competition organized by Zainab Institute, Maisuma. She says, “I won this competition and received a new sewing machine as a prize, which changed my life. I put my skills to good use and started doing sewing work. This started earning me a good income.” Tawheeda then set up a small boutique, which is now a successful enterprise and provides employment to around 12 women. However, just earning well for yourself and your family was not enough. So, she decided to empower the women who came from humble backgrounds and thus opened a training center in Lawaypora.

Tauhida says, “I have 12 employees in my boutique. I teach them tailoring and henna art. I have trained over 1,150 girls and charge them very little. I don’t charge those who are poor or orphans.”

Tawheeda also runs a society called Shining Star, through which she provides free training to women in her boutiques or ITIs. Recently, she has also arranged for 80 girls to do a three-month free fashion designing course and a one-year ITI course for 15 girls and three boys.”

Tawheeda was inspired to do all this by her maternal uncle, Nazir Ahmad Rather. Who always encouraged her. She says, “After tailoring, I learned embroidery work, knitting and sawing. I always tell my female students that learning a skill will help them find gainful employment, which will boost their confidence and make their lives more comfortable.”

Tawheeda’s journey yet again proves that if you believe in yourself then you can achieve your dream.