“I wasn’t just a girl from Azam Basti—I was a dreamer shackled by circumstances. Baithak School broke those chains, giving me the wings to rise above poverty and the courage to rewrite my story,” says Iqra Bashir, her voice brimming with gratitude and pride.

Iqra, a young woman from Azam Basti, Karachi, embodies the transformative power of education and resilience. As the eldest child in a family where no one had ever attended school, Iqra carried the heavy responsibility of paving a new path. Her father, a fruit vendor, worked tirelessly to support the family, while her mother, Zubaida, was determined to give her daughter an opportunity to escape the cycle of poverty.

Growing up, Iqra faced constant taunts from neighborhood children who would ask, “Why don’t you go to school?” These remarks embarrassed her but also planted a seed of determination to prove them wrong. Her life changed when she discovered Baithak School Network in the neighborhood. Despite starting late, she found a supportive environment and dedicated teachers who sparked her passion for learning.

“At Baithak, I found more than a school—I found inspiration, guidance, and a spark that turned my hesitation into unwavering dedication,” she recalls۔ Iqra’s hard work soon bore fruit. After completing Grade 5 at Baithak, she secured direct admission into Grade 8 at another school. She credits Baithak for giving her the foundation and confidence to excel academically, paving the way for her remarkable educational journey.

With Baithak’s continued support, Iqra went on to achieve her Master’s degree and later an M.Phil, in Social Sciences from SZABIST. She began her career as a lecturer at Bahria College, where she inspired young minds with her knowledge and dedication. Today, she continues to shape future generations as a visiting lecturer at SZABIST, sharing her story to motivate students from backgrounds similar to her own.

Iqra’s journey from a kachi abadi to academia is a testament to her resilience and the transformative role of Baithak School Network. Her dream now is to uplift her family and give back to Baithak by supporting more children like herself, ensuring they too can break barriers and achieve their potential.