‘Our society needs empathetic men’ – M. Hamid

He for She

Women are, without a doubt, their own greatest champions, however there are men who are working consistently towards gender equality. From this month, You! is starting a new segment: ‘He for She’. The section will carry interviews of successful men from entrepreneurs, businessmen, lawyers, doctors to architects, writers, artists, activists, producers and directors; who believe in equality and empowering women in our patriarchal society. This week we are featuring Muhammad Hamid, a young entrepreneur, who is quite vocal about women’s rights. In an exclusive interview with You! Hamid talks about his NGO and the kind of work he and his organisation are doing for the welfare of women…

You! Tell us a bit about yourself?

Muhammad Hamid: I am from Rahim Yar Khan (RYK). I completed my early education from a government school and did my F.Sc. from a nearby college. Further, I was enrolled in KFUEIT, (Khwaja Fareed University of Engineering and Information Technology) and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Physics.

I began learning about digital marketing, carried out my research and gradually, became involved in this field. I established my own digital company that provides digital marketing services to their clients. I have plans to establish offices all across the country.

You! Have your priorities changed from when you first started?

MH: My priorities have never changed. From the beginning I knew what I wanted to do. I was always inclined towards doing something for our women and society. Starting an NGO was one of my main goals because I had always wanted to improve quality of life for others at a community and local level. I feel blessed as my financial position allowed me to start an NGO. I believe that if you earn well then you must also pay back to the society. No one has ever become poor by giving to others.

You! What are the aims and objectives of your organisation?

MH: I started my organisation called ‘Survive The Nation’ (STN) a few months ago. Our aim is that no one goes to bed hungry and they have a roof over their heads. Thus, we give homeless families food and shelter. Our goal is to strengthen our community and to eradicate poverty or at least lessen it.

You! Does your organisation work for the welfare of women?

MH: Yes, STN works for the welfare of women because we believe that women are the backbone of any nation. We provide shelter to homeless women, educate them and help them achieve financial independence. STN believes that educating a woman is vital for a healthy community because educating women is synonymous to educating next generations.

You! What are your views on gender equality?

MH: Life is all about balance, all aspects should be given equal importance for the perfect balance and the same idea applies to gender equality. Although, men and women have different roles in our society, but their rights are equal. Our society needs empathetic men.

You! Why do you think it’s important that we make equality a priority?

MH: We must renounce obsolete traditions and archaic mentalities. We must instil good values in young generation, especially boys. I think mothers can play an important role in shaping empathetic young men. It takes a lot of effort, it will take time, but it is possible. Gender equality should be a priority for everyone because there are so many issues prevailing in our global society arising from the lack of it and they need to be addressed and solved by giving equal rights to all genders.

You! What do you have to say about women’s rights?

MH: Women’s rights are human rights. It is a fact that many women do not get even their basic rights, but the situation is much better than it was before because of the combined efforts of so many NGOs that are working for women’s rights.

We can empower women by providing them fair access to education, ending domestic violence and by providing a platform to express their talent.

You! Why do you think there are less women entrepreneurs in Pakistan as compared to men?

MH: Women face many hurdles and complications when they decide to start their career. Most of the time families do not want their women to go out and work and this is the reason we do not have many women entrepreneurs in Pakistan.

You! What are you most passionate about?

MH: I am passionate about my work. My work gives me a sense of direction and keeps me motivated.

You! Tell us what are the three most important habits of a successful entrepreneur?

MH: Staying focused, tracking your progress and keep learning.

You! What advice would you give to young women in Pakistan who are just beginning in their careers?

MH: I would say that they should work hard and be persistent. There are so many opportunities around you; you just need to find the right one. Be confident, never lose hope, keep trying until you win.

You! What does a typical day look like for you?

MH: I spend most of my time managing STN Organization and my business, but I always spare some time for myself which I prefer to spend with my family and friends.

You! Your philosophy of life:

MH: The simple philosophy of my life is, ‘Be the reason someone smiles today’.

You! What is your biggest indulgence?

MH: I am a nature lover and an adventurer so I can say that travelling is my biggest indulgence. It always excites me to explore new surroundings, and to experience new adventures.

You! What is your most treasured possession?

MH: My most treasured possession will be a signature shirt of Dominic Ryder, The CEO of vEmpire. I will get it someday soon.

You! What kind of wife will you prefer as your life partner: a domestic one or a working one?

MH: I would prefer a wife who knows how to balance personal and professional life. I will not influence her. It will be her decision what she wants to be, a working one or a housewife. I will always support her.

You! Are you working on any exciting new projects now?

MH: Yes, I am working on some great projects that will benefit women for sure, but I prefer not to share the details until everything is finalised.