“Finding Independence and Purpose: My Journey with SKZ”

I am Marphua, a pharmacist in making, who is working with SKZ for two years now. I am glad that SKZ gave me the platform to share my story as a part of the organization, as I have always wanted to share how this journey has inspired me. As a student pursuing my passion for pharmacy at University of Lahore, I found myself searching for opportunities to support myself while studying. Balancing academics and financial responsibilities can be challenging, but fate led me to SKZ and it not only provided me with a part-time job but also aligned with my aspirations for a better Pakistan. I got to know about SKZ and that it is a non-profit organization that has been actively working to uplift marginalized communities by providing education and support to the slums of Pakistan, and I decided to be a part of it. What truly amazed me about SKZ was its dedication to empowering youth, particularly undergraduate students like myself, by offering job opportunities. I became part of their noble cause while working at SKZ alongside my studies.

My first visit to the SKZ school was a truly heartwarming experience. It was the first time I had the opportunity to interact with children from marginalized backgrounds, and their journey touched me deeply. Witnessing their growth and learning filled me with immense happiness. It was incredible to see them catching up to their peers, gaining knowledge, and developing valuable skills.

One of the most inspiring aspects of this visit was observing the transformation in the children’s understanding of hygiene. Many of them had little to no knowledge about proper hygiene practices when they first joined the school. However, through SKZ’s dedicated teachers and educational initiatives, they were now learning about personal hygiene and its importance. Witnessing their progress in this area filled my heart with joy.

This experience further solidified my commitment to working with SKZ and contributing to their mission. It made me realize that, as a pharmacist in making, my role extends beyond the confines of a traditional pharmacy. By being part of SKZ, I have the opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of individuals, particularly those from underprivileged communities. This visit ignited a passion within me to advocate for education, healthcare, and overall well-being, recognizing their crucial role in transforming lives and building a brighter future for generations to come.

Having the privilege to work at SKZ, I witnessed firsthand how the organization positively impacted the lives of the underprivileged. SKZ’s commitment to the cause of educated Pakistan resonated with my aspirations. The best thing that can happen to a student is increased exposure and the chance to enhance communication skills and learn professional behaviour, before entering the practical life after graduation, and SKZ has given me that.  I had always desired to be associated with an organization that truly made a difference, and SKZ fulfilled that dream. In these years I have not only been able to achieve independence but also a sense of purpose and fulfilment. While working at SKZ, I witnessed the transformation brought about by education in the lives of individuals who were once deprived of opportunities. It has made me more determined to be a change-maker and to build a life that can be a ray of hope for many. While working in the field, the chance to interact with the purest souls who are being brought up in the most underprivileged community has inspired me a lot. Their empathy, resilience, and determination have motivated me to be more thankful and determined in life so that I can bring change. My association with SKZ has been transformative, shaping my professional life and personal growth. It has allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by underprivileged communities and the power of education in breaking the cycle of poverty. The positive change these two years have instilled in me will always be part of me and I hope to create this change in the life of many.

Although my journey as a student and employee may change in the future, my bond with SKZ and their cause will remain strong. The experience of being part of a foundation that strives to create a more educated and empowered Pakistan is something I will carry with me for a lifetime. SKZ has been a catalyst for positive change in my life and the lives of countless individuals. SKZ has become a beacon of hope for those in need, through their commitment to education and job opportunities for youth. I am grateful to have found a purposeful path that aligns with my dreams and allows me to contribute to a cause greater than myself.