There are few job opportunities in this remote, mountainous region of Pakistan. Women and men are often forced to migrate in search of work – draining talent and potential from the region.

The Aga Khan Foundation in Canada invests in local leadership and skills training, to help women and men become active, contributing members of their home communities.

Malika plans to work part-time as an electrician and Naila, a housewife and mother of three, wants to open an electrical shop. They, along with their classmates, will be the first female electricians to graduate from this program.

Malika and Naila are living proof of how AKFC programs are sparking positive change. In their new roles, these electricians will help to ensure safe living conditions in their communities and support economic growth and development – all while earning an income to help support their families.

About the Aga Khan Foundation and Aga Khan Development Network

As a member of the Aga Khan Development Network, one of the world’s leading poverty solutions networks, the Aga Khan Foundation engages with communities across Africa and Asia to build better futures together. We believe we all have purpose. Driven by our belief in our shared humanity, we are dedicated to helping all people fulfill that promise for themselves. Each year the Aga Khan Development Network helps improve the quality of life for tens of millions of people in over 30 countries.

Committed to breaking the cycle of poverty, we integrate our efforts across sectors making long-term investments, building lasting institutions and cultivating local civil society. We work for the common good of all citizens, regardless of gender, origin or religion, inspired by compassion and solidarity with the vulnerable in society.

We build quality institutions – clinics, banks and universities – that anchor communities and provide them opportunities to unlock their promise. We are committed to innovative model programs that improve the quality of life for people and can be replicated in the poorest regions of the world. Our approach touches a wide range of investments critical to human development, from early childhood education to health and infrastructure to green space preservation.

Learn more about the Aga Khan Development Network here and more about the Aga Khan Foundation’s approach here.