It would not be an exaggeration to say that some dreams are never buried. They breathe through generations. In Pakistan’s journey toward skill-based education and women’s empowerment, one such inspiring story begins with the vision of Haji Lal Din (RA) and today stands as a living institution shaped by Haji Abdul Ghani’s values, Anwar Begum’s (RA) nurturing guidance, and the determined leadership of Chaudhry Ahmed Shafiq, CEO and Founding President of COTHM Global.

Haji Lal Din (RA), the grandfather of Chaudhry Ahmed Shafiq, was a humble yet farsighted man who firmly believed that nations are strengthened not by resources, but by skills. He was convinced that Pakistan’s economic stability depended on empowering youth with practical skills, and that true family and social development was impossible without empowering women. At a time when women’s vocational education was almost unheard of, he planted this idea as a dream within his family.

That dream did not end with him. His son, Haji Abdul Ghani, preserved this vision and made it part of his children’s upbringing, ensuring it would not remain a story, but become a responsibility. Behind the character and leadership of Chaudhry Ahmed Shafiq stands the powerful role of his mother, Anwar Begum (RA), whose training, prayers, patience, and unconditional support shaped not only her son, but an entire mission. She instilled in him the belief that knowledge and authority are incomplete unless they create ease for others.

Her compassion, social awareness, and deep understanding of women’s challenges became the foundation of an institution built not merely with bricks, but with purpose. This is why the institution proudly bears her name: Anwar Begum Community Center, a tribute to a mother, a grandmother, and a guiding philosophy.

Chaudhry Ahmed Shafiq transformed the dreams of his elders and his mother’s upbringing into action. With modern education, an international outlook, and a strong understanding of local realities, he began this journey from his ancestral home in Basti Shah Din, Do Chak. What started modestly has now become a symbol of hope for underprivileged and rural women.

The most remarkable feature of the Anwar Begum Community Center is that all vocational education is provided completely free of cost. With no fees, no discrimination, and no recommendations, women are trained in practical, income-generating skills, including:

• Sewing, embroidery, and dressmaking

• Fashion designing

• Beautician and beauty skills

• IT and digital skills

This training goes beyond learning techniques. It prepares women for self-employment, freelancing, and home-based businesses.

Today, the women trained at this center are on a path to:

• Earn from their own homes

• Support their children’s education

• Build a dignified identity within society

The Anwar Begum Community Center stands as the collective outcome of Haji Lal Din’s dream, Haji Abdul Ghani’s values, Anwar Begum’s upbringing, and Chaudhry Ahmed Shafiq’s leadership. It is not merely an institution. It is an ongoing charity, shaping futures and opening pathways for generations to come.

This story is not just about one individual or one family. It is proof that when vision is passed down through generations and training becomes character, institutions do not emerge. Social revolutions do.

Today, the Anwar Begum Community Center is living evidence that when sincerity, upbringing, and service come together, destinies change.