From Needlework to Nation-Building: How Behbud Is Stitching a Stronger Future for Pakistani Women

In the bustling industrial workroom of Rawalpindi, Nasreen Aziz is busy at her sewing machine, embroidering intricate patterns on fabric. A mother of four, Nasreen’s journey into the world of professional needlework began in 2001 when her family’s financial struggles became too much for her husband to bear alone. She found refuge at the Behbud Association of Pakistan, an organization dedicated to empowering women like her through vocational training and skill development.

“When a woman starts earning, people start to respect her,” Nasreen says, reflecting on how her newfound income not only changed her financial situation but also gave her a newfound sense of strength and respect within her family and community.

Behbud was founded in the aftermath of the 1965 India-Pakistan war, when many women were left widowed and without a means of income. A group of volunteers started a small training program in Rawalpindi, teaching war widows how to sew and embroider to support themselves and their families. What started as a small effort soon grew into a nationwide nonprofit with skill centers across Pakistan, serving women of all skill levels and backgrounds.

Behbud’s open-door policy ensures that no woman is turned away for lack of experience. As Taslim Akhtar, a skill trainer at Behbud, explains, the goal is not just to teach women how to sew but to bring them up to a professional standard, no matter where they start. With determination, they can improve their skills and begin earning a sustainable income. For many, it’s the first step towards financial independence and empowerment.

Under the leadership of Abida Malik, Behbud has impacted the lives of more than 1.6 million women over the years. Its mission is clear: when a woman has the ability to contribute economically, she gains respect and power in her community. The association provides women with paid work opportunities, helping them take on responsibilities that were once out of their reach.

To sustain itself, Behbud sells the clothes and handicrafts created by the women in its program, and has built a strong presence in cities like Islamabad and Lahore. The association also preserves traditional artisan skills, such as Ajrak block printing from Sindh and Phulkari floral embroidery from Punjab, incorporating these into modern designs for a growing fashion brand. In addition to this, Behbud has expanded its services to include educational and healthcare initiatives aimed at helping the most marginalized women in the country.

Despite the progress, Pakistan remains a difficult environment for women seeking employment. According to the World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap Index, the country ranks low for female participation in the workforce. Yet, women working with Behbud are defying the odds. Many women initially work from home, completing embroidery and sewing tasks that they take back to the production centers, allowing them to balance family and work.

As Kishwar Naheed, a former Behbud worker, explains, the organization not only gave her a source of income but also taught her how to stand up for herself. It was this newfound confidence that allowed her to successfully litigate her divorce. Behbud’s approach to empowerment is holistic: women are taught skills, supported financially, and encouraged to assert their rights.

Today, Behbud continues to expand its reach, working toward a global presence while maintaining its commitment to supporting women. With ongoing efforts in education, healthcare, and artisan preservation, Behbud is shaping a future where women don’t just survive — they thrive.