I have been in the beauty trade for 25 years and opened the first beauty salon in Karachi, and afterwards followed it up with "Ravissant" and "Cuts 'n' Cappucino". I've travelled far and wide to learn about the tremendous strides made in beauty care - including from Maria Gallant in Paris, Shehnaz Hussain in Mumbai and the London International School of Therapy. I learnt to make herbal products with Pandit Shankar Sharma. I produce my own line of herbal products for my clients. But it's an expensive venture and training abroad costs a lot which few can afford. In order to bring an international institute of repute here in Pakistan which is accessible to all, I approached FWBL for help.

I acquired the sole distributorship of Pivot Point International Inc., a US-based organisation with branches in 50 countries that specialises in the delivery of top-quality educational systems for the hair and beauty industry. When FWBL accepted the idea, I also asked them to extend student loans for those who couldn't afford the cost. They could repay in easy installments once they started earning. The FWBL President, Ms Aziz, liked the idea and agreed. I renovated the place to PIVOT's standards. As an international school, we automatically know of and follow international trends.

Teachers have been brought from abroad. We've started at certificate level working up to degree level. It's a new concept not confined to weddings and special occasions. It's a necessity, not a luxury, a concept I actively promote. Some day I hope to open salons that incorporate a cafe and a library that cater to the whole woman. Awakening is a must. We keep conducting seminars with leading hairstylists of Karachi who are invited to share their expertise with our students.