On December 17, 2024, Shirakat – Partnership for Development hosted a Consultative Workshop on Strategies for Empowerment and the Way Forward at Lok Virsa, Islamabad. Organized under the Changemakers Project, the event marked the completion of its first year, bringing together experts, youth advocates, and community leaders to discuss child, early, and forced marriages (CEFM), gender-based violence (GBV), and youth empowerment.
Since 2012, Shirakat has worked for gender, economic, and climate justice, engaging over 70,000 community members and duty bearers and reaching 2 million people through media campaigns on GBV prevention. This workshop reinforced Shirakat’s commitment to empowering women and youth through knowledge-sharing and advocacy.
A major highlight was the Changemakers Project’s impact, which engaged 393 youth from Lahore and Rawalpindi, leading to the formation of 29 community-based organizations (CBOs). Five inspiring youth changemakers shared their stories, highlighting their efforts to delay child marriage, promote financial independence, and advocate for girls’ education.
In his keynote address, Ex-Ambassador Sir Shaukat Mukadam emphasized women’s empowerment as crucial for societal progress and called for stronger legal measures against GBV. His speech, deeply personal due to his daughter Noor Mukadam’s tragic case, reinforced the urgency of justice and accountability.
A theatrical performance, Breaking the Chains of Silence, by amateur youth leaders vividly depicted the consequences of child marriage and the power of education. Additionally, an entrepreneurship showcase featured 42 women micro-entrepreneurs, providing them with networking and business opportunities.
The event concluded with Resident Director – Mr. Khurram Raza Hassan’s call for positive parenting especially the role of father to shape a more respectful and non-violent society. Shirakat also ensured inclusivity by providing a sign language interpreter, reinforcing its commitment to accessibility and equal participation.
As the Changemakers Project enters its next phase, Shirakat remains dedicated to empowering youth, supporting women entrepreneurs, and fostering a society free from violence and discrimination.
