Too often people give up in the face of seemingly daunting odds.  When we start the game with less the normal reaction is to allow ourselves to use self-pity and revel in the unfairness of it all.  By doing so we shape our own destiny, since we allow our disempowered past to define our future.  When our future is already defined then we move into it without much freedom – and this we call our destiny.  But if we make different choices with a vision of a different future, then by the actions we take now we can shape our destiny.  There is great power in this choice, and this is something common to those who choose to be courageous and to shape their own destiny. Tariq Mehmood, a resident of village Khaddi Kali in Mardan, is an example of this power of human spirit.

Since his birth, Tariq has faced hardship due to the disability of his legs.  In addition, he was unable to pursue education after primary, which was for him another setback.  Undaunted, Tariq simply shifted gears and joined Janisaran, a Development Organization (DO) where his father is the President.  As a member of the DO Tariq performed effectively and participated enthusiastically in all development initiatives.

Opportunity presented itself in the form of skills training offered by HDF.  In Khwaja Rashaka, a village close to Khaddi Kali, Tariq found his calling through tailoring.  For two months, he diligently and whole-heartedly engaged himself with HDF to acquire and hone his skills.  This was back in April of 2006.  Since then, Tariq has taken full advantage of this break and, soon thereafter, opened a tailoring shop and transformed into an entrepreneur.

Today, Tariq is able to earn a decent living through his skills.  He has even employed two others on commission, and with whom he shares the business expenses.  Of his transformation, Tariq says, “Hard work and determination lead to success eventually.  The key is not to lose hope.  I am thankful to HDF, who afforded me the opportunity to finally stand on my own two feet.”

Over the last decade, HDF has helped over 9,500 people through vocational and technical training….
But this work is only possible through consistent support.  Act today, and help provide opportunity to transform lives throughout Pakistan.