Breaking Boundaries for Pakistani Women - Femmerang
Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in mental wellness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Mahvish Akhtar, CEO of Femmerang, located in Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We provide mental health and wellness care and information. Our main target is women because that’s a neglected section of society.
Tell us about yourself
I am a Journalist. I still work as a freelance. I had been a director of a mental health institute. I saw the struggles these people were having getting the right care, especially women. I wanted to do something more for them. The first thing I realized was that there was a lot of misinformation surrounding mental illness, which of course, kept especially women from getting help. I also realized the fear of labels and their families and friends held them back. So I decided to create a safe space where we would provide information and then give them help in a secure and private manner. Just knowing that I’m getting to help those that we had to watch walk away even though we knew they needed help is rewarding and very satisfying.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
That I am doing something I’m truly passionate about.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
To make people believe in our services and purpose. It’s one thing for individuals to like what you’re doing, but it’s another for them to understand that this can also be a lucrative business.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Do your research. Passion is great, but it’s not enough to have a successful business.
- Make sure you have at least 6 months of revenue saved up. Don’t assume that the business will take off right away. At first, you will be investing.
- Keep it small and simple. Don’t start too big; try and minimize the cost in the beginning. Focus on marketing more than anything else.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: http://www.femmerang.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/femmerang/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/femmerang/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/femme_rang
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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