Stepping toward prosperity: A footwear enterprise transforms lives of two young men

SUKKUR, Jul 03 (APP): The Sindh Rural Support Organization (SRSO), under the project Empowering Local Stakeholders and Communities for Diversified and Sustainable Livelihoods, and Protection against Climate Risks for Vulnerable Communities in District Mirpurkhas, Sindh Province, in partnership with Malteser International and with financial assistance from BMZ, a German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development, is supporting livelihood restoration through climate-resilient, sustainable businesses.

According to story shared by SRSO Official in social media platforms on Friday, the footwear outlet is located near Sabzi Mandi in Qaimkhani Mohalla, Ward No. 4, Jhuddo. It is operated by Business Development Group (BDG) members Suneel and Waheed. Their target customers include local retailers, residents, and visitors from across the area.

Both entrepreneurs were skilled and trained, but due to poverty, their business remained at a nano-scale. Following GET Ahead Training and proper implementation of their business idea as a complete package — including product line development, product extension, marketing, and placement, they were able to showcase their products at a dedicated outlet in the market. This was made possible with an investment fund of PKR 300,000, which enabled them to revive and expand their enterprise.

The business has strong growth potential due to the weekly animal market held nearby every Monday. The outlet offers customized designs, new footwear styles, quality leather products, and handicraft footwear. Suneel and Waheed have also built a supply chain with local rural women artisans for handicraft work.

People from far flung villages visit the market to buy and sell livestock, creating a steady flow of customers and increasing demand for footwear.