To go against the norms of society from a very young age, and
when you’re a girl, takes a lot of courage. Standing up for yourself is not the
tough part, standing alone for it is.
In a society where
the existence of a girl means marriage at an early age, her worth is confined
within the walls of the home. Getting her settled with a family of her own,
even before she knows what family means, is the priority.
Najma Ramzan was
one of those many girls, who’s known only by her value to the household.
However, Najma never wanted a future like the many around her. She wanted an
education, she wanted a better life, and she wanted to make it happen for
herself.
Najma started her
education at primary level in an HDF school in Basti Rais, where HDF was the
only organization working in their village for their development in 2003. With
her father being a laborer and having a family of 11, it was not an easy
journey for Najma. She knew she would not be able to afford her education any
further, but her determination was stronger than her lack of funds.
She studied till
her matriculation from HDF School and then she continued with an F.A. from
Allama Iqbal Open University. She started working as a teacher in HDF schools,
and with the earnings, she supports her own education. Najma’s success set an
example for many in her small community.
This is not the
only example of how HDF has succeeded in making life better for this girl. Even
her father is an active member of their Village Development Organization where
not just the value of education has been changed, but people have started
changing their views about the whole perspective of living. In this, HDF has
played a very important role in shaping their lives not just in education, but
financial, health and social aspects. Thanks to these changes in the community,
they donated land in 2013 for HDF to build a formal school.
Najma is one of
the many gems as result of the intervention by HDF, where her community takes
pride in acknowledging the transparency and complete support in all major
aspects of their lives.
“We
should face difficulties with great courage. With the proper knowledge and full
attention towards our goal, we can make everything possible.” - Najma