Multan: Uzma Nawaz, the first female car mechanic in Pakistan's conservative society, spent years overcoming uncompromising gender stereotypes and financial hurdles en route to earning a mechanical engineering degree. She now got a job with an auto repairs garage in Multan.
After taking up the job as one of the first female car mechanics in Pakistan's conservative society, Uzma Nawaz has faced two common reactions 'shock and surprise' but also a bit of respect. When people see her doing this type of work they are really surprised.
Uzma took up this job as a challenge against all odds and the poor financial resources of her family. Coming from the small, impoverished town of Dunyapur near Multan, Uzma relied on scholarships and often skipped meals when she was broke while pursuing her degree. Her achievements are rare.
Women have long struggled for their rights in Pakistan's conservative society, and especially in rural areas, where often they are encouraged to marry young and devote themselves entirely to family over career.
Nothing could break my will and motivation, the sacrifices cleared the way for steady work at a Toyota dealership in Multan following graduation, Uzma says proudly.
Just a year into the job, and promoted to general repairs, Uzma Nawaz moves with the ease of a seasoned pro around the dealership's garage, removing tyres from raised vehicles, inspecting engines and handling a variety of tools, a sight that initially jolted some customers.
One of the customers was shocked to see a young girl lifting heavy spare tyres and then putting them back on vehicles after repairs, but Uzma’s drive and expertise has impressed colleagues, who say she can more than hold her own. Whatever task we give her she does it like a man with hard work and dedication.
Uzma has also convinced some of those who doubted her ability to make it in a male-dominated work environment, including members of her own family. Muhammad Nawaz, Uzma's father said, there is no need in our society for girls to work at workshops, it doesn't seems nice, but it is her passion. She can now set up the machinery and can work properly. I am very happy for her, added Muhammad Nawaz.
Posted by : Admin on Oct 16, 2018 12:13 PM
