We are a group of individuals who believe in the potential of women entrepreneurs in Pakistan. After many years of working in this field, we have become acutely aware of the need for a separate Chamber of Commerce and industry, which is solely dedicated to promoting the cause of women in business. To this end, we are proud to announce the establishment of WCCI. The chamber can also be looked upon as an advocacy group for dealing with issues of economic empowerment of women.
Message from founder president Dr. Shehla Javed Akram
As the Founder President of the Women Chamber of Commerce and Industry Lahore Division (WCCIL), I extend a hearty and warm welcome to all current and prospective members.
At the inception of this chamber, I encountered multiple hurdles since there was absolutely no legislation to facilitate the establishment of a separate womens’ chamber. It was an uphill battle to generate sufficient support for the idea of a women’s chamber which I achieved through massive efforts in canvassing and campaigning; which resulted in being able to drum up the idea of a chamber.
I had to repeatedly advocate to the government of Pakistan to allow the establishment of separate chambers for business women in Pakistan.We began working on this mission in 2002 and obtained our license in 2008. The chamber began with just 10 members and today we cater to 4000+ women entrepreneurs.
In the past 15 years, WCCIL has built up a fund of knowledge and experience alongside developing a treasure trove of benefits for our members.
Being the founder President, my goal remains to facilitate continuing growth and awareness of WCCIL, both in Pakistan and globally. I continue to strive to create an enabling environment where women could have access to opportunities and resources, be properly represented, take up membership without any hesitation, and establish their businesses through training and marketing of their products in the local, national and international markets.
Our chamber acts as an institution where women entrepreneurs, no matter how small or big their scale might be; receive support, mentoring and guidance. The chamber is a melting pot of all women-led businesses and a common ground where they find mentors, kindred spirits and support.
I welcome you to join me on this journey of empowering women entrepreneurs in Pakistan
Dr. Shehla Javed Akram
Founder President WCCI (Lahore Division)
Message from President
It is an honor and a privilege to serve as the President of the Women Chamber of Commerce & Industry Lahore Division for the term 2026–2028. I am deeply grateful for the trust and confidence placed in me, and I look forward to working alongside our members, executive committee, and strategic partners to advance women’s economic empowerment and entrepreneurship in Pakistan.
As the first Women Chamber of Pakistan, WCCIL holds a distinctive place in promoting women-led businesses, nurturing entrepreneurial talent, and creating opportunities for women to participate meaningfully in the national and global economy. Our mission extends beyond representation; we aim to build an enabling ecosystem where women entrepreneurs can access markets, finance, skills, technology, mentorship, and institutional support to transform their ideas into sustainable and successful enterprises.
During my tenure, our focus will be on strengthening women-owned businesses, supporting startups and SMEs, enhancing access to financial resources, promoting digital transformation and innovation, and expanding national and international trade linkages. We will also work towards developing practical initiatives in skills development, business incubation, enterprise growth, and leadership, with particular attention to emerging entrepreneurs and women from underserved communities.
I firmly believe that when women are economically empowered, families prosper, communities become stronger, and nations move towards sustainable development. Through collaboration with government institutions, financial organizations, chambers of commerce, academia, development partners, and international networks, we can create meaningful opportunities and lasting impact.
My vision is to make WCCIL an even stronger platform for advocacy, business development, collaboration, and inclusive economic growth—one where every member feels supported, valued, and empowered to succeed.
I invite our members, partners, and all stakeholders to join us in this journey of progress and transformation. Together, let us turn challenges into opportunities, ideas into enterprises, and aspirations into achievements.
Let us work together to create a stronger, more inclusive, and prosperous future for women entrepreneurs in Pakistan.
With sincere commitment and warm regards,
Saba Mubarik
President (2026–2028)
Women Chamber of Commerce & Industry Lahore Division (WCCIL)
Message from Senior Vice President
I’m Ms Shaheen Kauser (Malik)the Senior Vice President of the Women Chamber of Commerce and Industry (WCCI), Lahore Division, for the 2026–2028 tenure, and as the founder and CEO of Shaheen Advisors, an international educational consultancy as well as President Women Wing of the Association of Foreign Education Consultants Pakistan ,I am deeply honored to serve our vibrant business community. Over two decades of experience in leadership, mentorship, and bridging academic and industrial pathways have reinforced my firm belief that women business leaders are the true backbone of Pakistan’s economic resilience. At WCCI Lahore, our goal during this term is to build an environment where every woman-led enterprise can innovate, scale, and thrive. Over the next two years, our focus will be on opening new doors for our members by expanding digital skills and capacity building workshops, fostering strong mentorship networks between seasoned pioneers and emerging founders, facilitating direct access to financial resources and equitable trade policies, and actively creating international linkages so our members can showcase their talents globally. Whether you are running an established company, launching a dynamic new startup, or taking your very first steps into the business world, this chamber is here to serve as your advocate, network, and dedicated support system as we break barriers and drive sustainable economic growth together.
Ms Shaheen Kauser (Malik)
Message from Vice President
Women are not only the architects of their own success but also powerful catalysts for economic growth, innovation, and social transformation. Empowering women entrepreneurs and creating opportunities for their growth are essential steps toward building a stronger, more inclusive, and prosperous Pakistan.
The Women Chamber of Commerce & Industry Lahore is committed to fostering entrepreneurship, promoting women-led businesses, and providing a platform where women can connect, collaborate, and thrive. Together, we can break barriers, inspire future generations, and turn challenges into opportunities.
Let us continue to empower one another, celebrate our achievements, and build a future where every woman has the confidence, resources, and opportunities to reach her full potential.
When women rise, businesses flourish, communities prosper, and nations progress.
Engr. Anum Tariq
Vice President
Women Chamber of Commerce & Industry Lahore (WCCIL)