The Biz Update One of Pakistan's Most Reliable Business News Website
Related Articles
Karachi, 9 February 2026: Visa (NYSE: V), a global leader in digital payments, in partnership with HBL, Pakistan’s premier private sector bank, announced the winners of the 2026 edition of the She’s Next program, celebrating women entrepreneurs across the country. The award ceremony took place at the Pearl Continental Hotel, with a special recognition for the most sustainable business.
The five winners, selected from nearly 3,500 applicants, are:
- Aiman Shafique – EV Square
- Anusha Fatima – Trashit (Sustainability Award Winner)
- Fizza Hussain – Khaas Foodz Kitchen
- Maira Siddiqui – Chiragh Education Technologies
- Meesha Baig – Goud
Each winner received a USD 10,000 grant, tailored guidance, and expert mentorship, along with access to workshops, resources, and the She’s Next Club, designed to support women-led businesses in education, gaming, waste management, healthcare, and more.
A distinguished jury, including Maya Inayat Ismail (HBL Microfinance Bank), Naz Khan (IFC), Dan Baxter (Visa), Mubariz Siddiqui (Carbon Law), and Ali Ladhubhai (Abhi Microfinance Bank), evaluated applicants based on business growth, digital presence, and problem-solving ability.
Leila Serhan, Vice President and Group Country Manager—North Africa, Levant, and Pakistan at Visa, emphasized the importance of supporting women entrepreneurs: “This year’s She’s Next program demonstrates the ambition, resilience, and digital innovation driving Pakistan’s women-led businesses. By integrating technology and mentorship, these entrepreneurs are transforming their ventures into thriving enterprises.”
Aamir Kureshi, Head of Products & Payments at HBL, highlighted the role of financial tools and payment solutions in scaling businesses sustainably. “Through She’s Next, HBL and Visa are committed to enabling women entrepreneurs to grow, formalize, and compete with confidence,” he said.
The She’s Next Women SMB Digitization Index revealed that women-led businesses in Pakistan are increasingly adopting digital payments and AI tools, with 49% using natural language processing, 43% employing data analytics, and 43% leveraging chatbots or virtual assistants. Motivated by financial independence (39%) and creating supportive workplaces (24%), these women entrepreneurs are reshaping Pakistan’s entrepreneurial landscape.
