Maria Riasat always dreamed of becoming an entrepreneur. Growing up in Rasul Nagar, a small town in Tehsil Alipur Chatta, she believed that earning a university degree would open the door to meaningful career opportunities. After completing her BS in Zoology, however, she found herself facing the same challenge experienced by many educated women in rural Punjab—limited employment opportunities despite having the qualifications and determination to succeed.
The loss of her father became a defining moment in her life. Along with the grief came a promise she had made to him and the confidence he had always placed in her abilities. Determined to honor that promise, Maria refused to let her ambitions fade.
“With the help of the Mein Digital program and the skills I learnt, I feel confident and hopeful while running an online business, as I want to be a role model in my area.”
— Maria Riasat
With the encouragement of her brother, Maria enrolled in PSDF’s Mein Digital program. The training equipped her with practical digital skills, including digital marketing, English communication, and the knowledge required to source and sell products through Amazon. More importantly, the program gave her the confidence and direction to transform her entrepreneurial aspirations into a realistic business plan.
Today, Maria is preparing to launch an online business alongside her sister, offering organic pickles and handmade face masks. What once seemed impossible has become an achievable reality, allowing her to reach customers beyond her hometown through digital platforms.
For Maria, success is about more than building a business. She hopes her journey encourages other women in her community to believe in their own potential and embrace the opportunities that digital skills can create. By demonstrating that entrepreneurship is within reach, she is helping break barriers for women who have long faced limited economic opportunities.
Maria’s story highlights the transformative power of digital education. Through the Mein Digital program, she has not only created a pathway toward financial independence but has also become an inspiration for aspiring women entrepreneurs. Her journey shows that when ambition is matched with the right skills and support, digital opportunities can turn personal dreams into lasting community impact.



















