No, they don’t stand out as ‘super-chic ultra-mod contemporary CEOs, dwarfing everything and everyone in their surroundings, as per the image of the term ingrained in our brains by contemporary media;
They look even better.
Human; and humane.
And very very talented!
Meet the NZ of “Aahang”; Nazeeha and Zubash
They became friends during their university days where both studied computer arts with majors in graphic designing; graduated; got married; but still stayed in touch.
And one fine day, decided to give a new dimension to their comradeship: Aahang.
“Aahang means together/joint/connected. It is our bond of celebrating and cementing 20 years of friendship, showcasing seamless blends of tradition, art and ingenuity” Zubash explains.
And how did it come about?
“It’s an interesting story. Both of us were about to enter in a new phase of life. Our husbands getting retired and our families moving back to our home stations. The circumstances at that time for both of us seemed somewhat uncertain, stressed and anxious.
So to distract ourselves from the circumstances at that time, both of us enrolled separately (not knowing that the other has enrolled too) for a furniture upcycling workshop; and hence surprisingly ended up together.
The workshop really proved to be a spirit booster for us and we realized we can, and should, take the knowledge learned further and in a better way, utilizing our skills and graphic design background.
And so we did!
We made an Instagram handle; And Aahang came about; just like that!”
Three years down the road but talking about Aahang and how it started, seems to give a natural perk up to both Nazeeha and Zubash still, reflecting the zeal and passion that it embodies essentially.
So what exactly does Aahang showcase?
“It basically features handmade home décor items and jewelry infused with decoupage and metal embossing techniques. It’s a combination of creativity, exclusiveness and elegance. But most of all, it embodies the beauty of friendship and love nurtured over the years”.
Talking about Aahang’s evolvement over the years, NZ enthusiastically share that the three years journey has been landmark every step of the way.
“We have definitely evolved a lot in these three very happening years. We started off with basic home items like trays and coasters and now it seems we are adding products every week, every day almost!”
And their journey to fame and success hasn’t been undiscovered.
“We have appeared on morning shows of different TV channels and interviewed by some YouTubers as well.
Alhamdolillah, now Aahang has a brand standing and it’s a great feeling when people come and ask for our stall at exhibitions.
We’ve launched our website recently. At this point of our journey we do feel that although we have a long way to go still, but Alhamdulillah we have achieved a lot; more than our fellow vendors who’ve been doing it way before us.”
Both Nazeeha and Zubash really emphasize the need for skill based learning right from the early years onward.
“Academics and Skills go side by side in the practical world. The current situation of employment in our country makes it mandatory for us to teach our children that instead of being an employee we can be our own boss by using our skills.
Aahang is involved in giving lectures at universities spreading awareness on the importance of skill based learning. Unfortunately schools have a very limited vision and have restrictions to allow such lectures. But we strongly believe that skill based subjects should be a part of the curriculum.
It is very important and paves the way for an apt and naturally aligned future line for every child if we assess and guide them as per their natural talent and capabilities to be high achievers in life.
Additionally, we would also pass on a word to all the wonderful ladies/housewives/homemakers out there:
Life is much more and beyond the usual daily home chores; discover yourself; your skills, your talents, anything that gives you joy and convert it into business, no matter how small to start with. It really is worth it!”
Commenting on whether there’s scope of indigenous products/vendors/business ventures in the Pakistani market, NZ reflect an optimistic outlook.
“A few years ago perhaps the local entrepreneurs had a restrained space in the market but things have certainly moved along positively; ironically more so since the Covid lockdown times.
We feel our market has a lot of potential for indigenous quality products. The surge in social and digital media has given new meanings and dimensions to marketing. We have actually experienced that people really go for customized handmade products rather than big expensive branded items.
Also they reflect our essential culture and traditions and hence stand as part of a signature heritage specific to Pakistan, globally.
This is really heartening for local start-ups but then we also need to concentrate on the quality of products and services if we want to take things forward favorably.”
Concluding a very positive and promising talk with an even more promising venture called Aahang, when asked where they see themselves going from here, the ever so dynamic ladies, Zubash and Nazeeha, look forward to brighter, better and exciting days ahead.
“Aahang was started just as a hobby and a side kick; something to keep us connected and busy. We did not know neither did we foresee that over a short span of just three years, we would actually achieve a noticeable space in the online home based business community.
So yes, we have come a long way; but the journey continues.
And you know, sky is the limit!”
The twinkle in their eyes and the spark in their smiles assure me that Nazeeha and Zubash do mean it.
Aahang has taken off and it is all set to find its way right up to the stars, surely!
