LUBNA SHAKOH
The Resilient Woman Who Launched HUF With Just Rs 300.
HEARTFELT BEGINNINGS: A CALL TO HUMANITY
Lubna Shakoh, the compassionate Founder & President of Hope Uplift Foundation, found her purpose through her father’s dedication to social welfare. Her upbringing, surrounded by initiatives like Kashana and Behbood Projects, fueled her endeavor to make a difference. Witnessing the stark realities of Al-Noor Colony, Walton Road in Lahore, she resolved to bridge the gap between the rich and the poor. I did not have any idea how to operate an NGO when I started my project “Hope Uplift Foundation”. I started off making a dispensary first, I had only Rs. 300 in my pocket at that time. I invited my friends, my neighbors and asked them to donate Rs. 300 for this cause, which they paid on the spot, and within 10 days my dispensary was born. Subsequently, they all proved out to be my worthy donors and directors too.. Today this Rs. 300 has become a turnover of 90 Crores from the same donors. All the principles of accountability are fully enforced in my organization and I am ready to account for every penny donated and spent here. My key objective is to empower women. Hence, all the directors of HUF are women and working as volunteers in my mission.
EDUCATION AND EMPOWERMENT PLANTING SEEDS OF CHANGE
For 24 years, Lubna’s initiatives have multiplied, evolving into 22 comprehensive programs. From humble beginnings, she established an educational NGO, now a thriving school with 2000+ students, offering quality education at a nominal fee. DHA’s support enabled the construction of the campus by providing land worth Rs.22 Crores, and the construction cost of the campus is Rs 13 Crores, providing education from Playgroup to Higher Secondary.
UNWAVERING DETERMINATION: OVERCOMING HURDLES
In her pursuit of a noble mission, Lubna faced challenges. Yet, she believes that when one resolves to do good, the forces of good unite for success. Prayers and her desire to be a Sadqa e Jaria for her parents and a guiding light for her children keep her going.
ACCESSIBLE ASSISTANCE: A HELPING HAND
Hope Uplift Foundation welcomes those in need through its office and website, offering support and even interest-free loans disbursed within 24 hours. The organization’s integrity and accountability are evident, with 99.9% returning what they borrow.
EMPOWERING WOMEN: LEADING THE WAY
Recognizing the importance of women’s involvement, all directors of the women development NGO are women. Lubna’s journey began with a humble contribution, growing into 90 Crores due to the generosity of her supporters. Principles of accountability are paramount in her organization.
BALANCING ACTS: DIVINE BLESSINGS
RTA blessings, in the form of ‘Barkat,’ enable Lubna to balance her family life and community service. She has initiated LS Enterprises ensuring Hope Uplift Foundation’s sustainability, even after her life.
ETERNAL PURSUIT: MAKING A DIFFERENCE
While Lubna finds happiness in others’ smiles, she remains unsatisfied, always aspiring to do more. Her advice to everyone is simple: engage in social work, contribute for the betterment of society, and experience the joy and satisfaction of making a difference.
INSPIRING WOMEN OF PAKISTAN: A CALL TO ACTION
Lubna’s message to the women of Pakistan echoes empowerment through social welfare. She urges women to return God’s blessings by helping the suffering, setting goals to make life easier for others. Joining organizations like Hope Uplift Foundation or starting their own NGOs can pave the way for a better world.
RECENT PROJECTS FOR FUTURE VISION
- HUF Incubation Center & IT Center: Imparting essential skills to the underprivileged, fostering self-reliance.
- HUF Health Club: Promoting health and well-being within communities, ensuring holistic development.
- HUF Medical Center – Nishat Colony: In the last 3 months, we’ve proudly catered to approximately 20,000 patients, charging only PKR 50/-, inclusive of examination fees and medicines for 1 day.
- HUF Women’s Empowerment Hub is a state-of-the-art store entrepreneur market that empowers women working at their homes and unable to afford buying or renting a shop by charging them nominal fees. It helps them establish their brand shops in DHA.
REMARKABLE ACHIEVEMENTS: IMPACTING LIVES
In 24 years, Hope Uplift Foundation has served 90 crores to the underprivileged, handling more than 2 million cases. Lubna Shakoh’s dedication continues to inspire, illuminating the path toward a brighter, more compassionate world.
AWARDS PRESENTED TO LUBNA SHAKOH
High Achiever Award Chief Guest 2023
National Pride Award 2022
Appreciation for Donation 2021
Laurels of Honor 2015
And many many more.