Federal Minister for BOI, Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh, Meets with Chairperson NAVTCC, Executive Director PODA & Artist Asmaa Zia — Commits Support for Women Empowerment
Islamabad : Federal Minister for Board of Investment (BOI), Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh, held a landmark meeting with the Chairperson of NAVTCC Gulmina Bilal Ahmad, the executive director of PODA, Sameena Nazir, and renowned artist Asmaa Zia. The meeting highlighted the pivotal role of women in Pakistan’s socio-economic development, explored avenues for woman-led entrepreneurship and skill-based investment, and marked the purchase of an original painting — to be contributed toward a charity initiative.
Federal Minister Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh emphasized boosting women’s participation in the formal economy, from skilled labour to entrepreneurship. Chairperson NAVTCC briefed Minister that being Pakistan’s apex body for Vocational Training and skill building, NAVTCC is mandated to bridge the skill-gap and create employment opportunities specially for women. 
By purchasing a painting by Artist Asmaa Zia, the Minister Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh signalled that art can serve a dual purpose, as cultural enrichment and as an asset class contributing to social good. The painting will be donated to charity, creating a model of socially responsible investing.
Federal Minister Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh noted that women-led enterprises —whether through skilled trades, creative industries, or small businesses — represent a vital investment opportunity. “When women succeed, economies grow — and so does national prosperity,” he said.
Ms. Sameena Nazir, Executive Director PODA, welcomed the initiative: “This marks an important step in recognizing that women’s empowerment is not just a social cause — it is an economic imperative”. Artist Asmaa Zia said she was honored to contribute her art to a charitable cause that advances women’s economic empowerment.
The Minister highlighted that the government has already removed 80% of unnecessary restrictions on the business community and successfully passed the Aasaan Karobar Act Bill from the National Assembly to improve the business climate. This would highly benefit women owned businesses investment opportunities.
This meeting signals a fresh, integrated approach to women’s empowerment in Pakistan. Federal Minister Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh reaffirmed that the Board of Investment remains fully committed to promoting investment and facilitating sustainable economic development across Pakistan.
Sohail Majeed is a Special Correspondent at The Diplomatic Insight. He has twelve plus years of experience in journalism & reporting. He covers International Affairs, Diplomacy, UN, Sports, Climate Change, Economy, Technology, and Health.
