Undergraduate BBA students of SZABIST University Islamabad visited Pakistan’s iconic Women Entrepreneurship Conference (WECON 2025), held at the Pak-China Friendship Center, Shakarparian Road, Islamabad. The visit was conducted under the supervision of Professor Dr. Shazia Akhtar, Head of the Department of Management Sciences, along with Dr. Iffat Rasool and Ms. Saba Butt.

WECON 2025 served as a powerful platform bringing together women entrepreneurs, change-makers, and public and private sector stakeholders to promote equity, inclusion, and innovation within Pakistan’s entrepreneurship ecosystem. The visit provided students with first-hand exposure to women-led enterprises and sustainability-driven business models that are empowering micro-entrepreneurs and small business owners across the country.

Through direct interaction with local women entrepreneurs, students gained valuable insights into the challenges faced by women in business, including access to finance, limited professional networks, and the need for skill development and institutional support. The discussions highlighted the importance of resilience, mentorship, and inclusive platforms in reshaping economic narratives.

The experience was particularly enriching for international students at SZABIST Islamabad, who engaged deeply with Pakistani culture, local craftsmanship, and community-based enterprises. Many expressed motivation to promote gender-inclusive entrepreneurship initiatives in their home countries after completing their academic programs.