LAHORE — Christian Businessmen Fellowship Pakistan and HARDS Pakistan joined forces at the Church of Christ in Nawaz Colony, Lahore, to host a youth seminar aimed at uplifting marginalized young people through targeted socio‑economic initiatives.

In collaboration with the Pakistan Poverty Alleviation Fund (PPAF), The Hunnar Foundation (THF), and Saiban‑e‑Pakistan, organizers welcomed roughly 40 local community members, clergy and civic leaders. The half‑day gathering featured interactive workshops on vocational skills, small‑enterprise development, financial literacy and leadership—all tailored to the specific challenges faced by youth in under‑served neighborhoods.

“Today isn’t just about training,” said Saleem Shakir President of Christian Businessmen Fellowship Pakistan. “It’s about affirming these young lives with opportunities—and with prayers—that will sustain them long after this seminar ends.” He led the opening invocation, calling on attendees to commit to ongoing mentorship and resource‑sharing.

The HARDS Pakistan team presented case studies of successful micro‑business projects, while PPAF representatives outlined available grant schemes and low‑interest loans. Meanwhile, THF specialists conducted a hands‑on session demonstrating basic digital tools for marketing and bookkeeping. Saiban‑e‑Pakistan volunteers distributed educational materials and pledged follow‑up support.

Participants expressed optimism. “I’ve learned how to turn my sewing skills into a revenue stream,” noted a 22‑year‑old attendee. “With the contacts I’ve made today, I feel confident this can really become my family’s main source of income.”

Closing the seminar, community leaders offered special prayers for the initiative’s success, emphasizing the power of partnerships in addressing poverty and social exclusion. Organizers plan to reconvene next quarter for progress updates and advanced training modules.

The event underscores a growing, faith‑based commitment to youth empowerment in Lahore, where collaboration between religious bodies, NGOs and funding agencies seeks to transform hope into tangible action—one seminar at a time.