Maria Fareed - now a successful freelancer working independently with a US based Clientele, shares her inspiring story. I grew up in a modest suburban area of Lahore, in a small home filled with love and quiet sacrifices. When I think about my journey now, I often feel emotional because it was never easy, never smooth- still I persisted. My father worked as a van driver, and my mother is a housewife who taught us patience and strength—not through words, but through the way she lived every day. My father struggled very hard to support our education, and those were some of the toughest years of our lives. Then came aturning point. I was introduced to Aalam Bibi Taleem O Tarbiyat School, and from that moment, life began to change. Since the school offered free education, my four siblings and I were all able to study there. I attended the school from Grade 6 to Grade 8- years that quietly shaped who I would become. The time spent at ABTTS taught us good values, helped us learn how to think critically, and, most importantly, gave us the courage to dream—even when it felt almost impossible. As a young girl, I faced immense pressure to choose marriage over education. Many days, I felt scared and confused. It felt like I was standing between two paths, unsure if I would be allowed to choose the one I loved. During those times, Dr Farah, the principal of my school became a guiding light, repeatedly speaking to my father and encouraging him to let me complete my studies. Her constant encouragement helped convince my father, and I was finally able to complete my BS degree in Political Science. Today, I work as a freelancer with US-based clients. As I am not allowed to work outside my home, freelancing became my doorway to independence. Along with my two younger brothers and my sister, I now help support my family and dream of becoming an expert in my field. Together, the Fareed siblings stand as a small but powerful example of what education, hope, and persistence can achieve

Here is another inspirational story from someone who was once a student at ABTTS and now serving at the same place as a teacher, being a proud alumna. My name is Iqra Rafiq, and today I teach at Aalam Bibi Taleem o Tarbiyat School, Lahore — the same place where my own story began. I studied here from grade 2 to grade 8, never imagining that one day I would return here as a teacher. I come from a family of five siblings. My father is a tailor, and my mother is a homemaker. Life was not easy, and finances were always a concern. Yet, because of ABTTS, my siblings and I were able to continue our education without burdening our parents. The school gave us free education, books, and uniforms, and with that support came something even more important—peace of mind. Our parents could breathe easier, and we could focus on learning. The foundation I received here helped me secure a scholarship for my BS.Ed. from the University of Education. I am now preparing for my MPhil, with the dream of one day earning a PhD in Education. My elder siblings and younger brother and sister are all pursuing their own educational paths, something our family once only hoped for. Every day I step into this school, I remember myself as a shy little girl in Class 2, curious and eager to learn. My confidence and language skills grew here, guided by caring teachers who believed in me. Serving here was always my dream. Coming back to teach at the place that gave us hope and wings to fly feels deeply personal. I now hope to give my students the same kindness, opportunity, and love that once changed my life.

Zahra Batool’s journey is a quiet reminder that even in the most difficult moments, belief and support can keep dreams alive. Here is how she narrates her story: I still remember the day I completed my matric and received a scholarship from Aalam Bibi Taleem o Tarbiyat School. That moment is deeply etched in my heart because it came at a time when my family was going through one of the hardest financial phases of our lives. My father had lost his source of income, and continuing my education felt uncertain, almost impossible. That scholarship became more than just financial support—it became hope, a reassurance that my dreams did not have to end there. Even during those difficult days, I held on and kept moving forward with determination. I was surrounded by teachers who believed in me, especially Miss Azra, whose presence still fills me with warmth when I think of my school years. She taught with so much love and patience, answering every question without ever making us feel small. She celebrated our achievements as if they were her own. She was my true inspiration. Watching her teach made me fall in love with learning and planted the dream in my heart to study further and eventually choose psychology as my field. My school life was never just about textbooks. It was full of life skills sessions, outdoor activities, sports days, and even acting opportunities that helped shape my confidence and personality. I loved being outdoors—running, playing, laughing, and taking part in sports. Those moments made my school days lively, joyful, and full of energy. Today, I am a third-semester BS Psychology student, and when I look back, I feel proud of how far I have come. I carry with me the lessons of love, care, resilience, and self-belief that ABTTS and my teachers gave me. These lessons continue to guide me as I work toward a future I once only dreamed of—but now truly believe in.

Awais Shafiq—a young man whose life quietly changed because someone chose to believe in education. Here is his story of how hope and faith can transform lives. I still feel a deep sense of gratitude when I remember the day Dr. Farah Deeba came to our home and spoke to my parents about the importance of educating all six of us siblings. In a community where education is often overlooked and daily survival takes priority, her visit felt like a blessing. Because of her encouragement and the support that followed, we were able to study without the burden of fees, books, or uniforms—something my family could never have afforded on its own. My years at Aalam Bibi Taleem o Tarbiyat School gave me more than an education; they gave me direction. The strong foundation I received in English and mathematics continues to support me today. I now work in medical billing, helping provide for my family while pursuing my BSCS degree from GCU Faisalabad, Lahore campus. Each step forward reminds me of the opportunities that were once made possible for me. My mother has always been my quiet strength, encouraging me to keep moving forward even when the path felt uncertain. My father, a fruit and vegetable vendor, stood beside me, offering support whenever he could. Their belief in me keeps me grounded. I dream of one day going to the USA, not only to grow professionally but to give back—to support children from my community the way we were once supported. In a place where many young people are forced into odd jobs to survive, I strive to work with dignity, purpose, and hope, building a future rooted in purpose, hope, and giving back.

This is the inspiring journey of Sabaa Aslam, whose life was forever changed by the gift of education. I grew up in a home where dreams were often whispered, spoken quietly as if they might disappear if said out loud. Chasing them felt risky, almost unrealistic. Yet everything began to change when I became part of the very first matric batch at Aalam Bibi Taleem o Tarbiyat School—a place that would slowly and quietly reshape not just my life, but my family’s future. After completing my matric, I received a scholarship for my intermediate studies from the institute. That support lifted a heavy weight off my shoulders. For the first time, I could study with a clear and peaceful mind, free from the constant worry of how fees would be managed. It felt like I had finally been given space to breathe and believe in myself. I was not alone on this journey. All five of my siblings studied at ABTTS, each of us taking steps toward an educational level that once felt impossible for our family. Our home, once defined by limitations and uncertainty, slowly began to change. It filled with hopeful conversations, shared goals, and plans for the future—things we had never allowed ourselves to imagine before. Education strengthened not only my confidence, but also our family bond. Today, when I look at my life, I feel that it is becoming what I once thought “normal” meant—steady, hopeful, and filled with quiet happiness. I am moving forward with confidence, toward a future that once felt far out of reach, and now rests gently within my grasp.

This is the story of Anam Fatima, a young woman whose journey shows how education can transform not just a life, but an entire family. I grew up in a home where hard work was a way of life. My father worked as a laborer, and my mother served as supporting staff at a school. I have four siblings, including my brother, who has special needs. Despite the challenges, we all studied at Aalam Bibi Taleem o Tarbiyat School, where guidance, care, and encouragement quietly shaped our lives. I still remember the pride I felt seeing my brother succeed as an independent electrician. The support and guidance he received at school gave him the skills to earn on his own—a source of relief and joy for our whole family. Seeing him thrive taught me that education can open doors no one imagined possible. After completing my matric, I was awarded a scholarship from ABTTS, and it changed everything for me. That scholarship did more than pay for my studies—it gave me hope, peace of mind, and the freedom to dream bigger. With financial worries lifted, I could focus on learning, building my skills, and imagining a brighter future. Education has transformed not only my life but also the environment at home. It brought calm, confidence, and optimism, helping our family plan for a better tomorrow. Today, I continue to pursue my dreams, carrying with me the lessons of perseverance, guidance, and the power of opportunity that ABTTS provided—lessons I hope to share with others one day.

From the classrooms of ABTTS to the halls of a medical diploma program, Humaira Abdul Ghaffar’s journey is a quiet testament to hope, perseverance, and possibility. I am currently pursuing a medical diploma from General Hospital, Lahore, but my journey truly began in the classrooms of Aalam Bibi Taleem o Tarbiyat School. Coming from a humble background, I often look back and realize how much the school shaped not just my mind, but also the way I see the world. ABTTS taught me the importance of critical thinking and a scientific approach to solving problems—skills that continue to guide me every day. Even though our community didn’t always understand or appreciate the value of education, ABTTS gave us a chance to learn without worrying about fees, uniforms, or books. The small comforts, like the meals served during lunch, may seem simple, but they made a real difference—they kept me energized, focused, and ready to make the most of my education. My achievements are not just my own—they are shared with my family. I feel immense pride knowing that my sister is now part of the medical profession too, something that once seemed nearly impossible in a community where education for children, especially girls, was not always encouraged. Our journey, mine and my sister’s, reflects determination, guidance, and the transformative power of opportunity. It reminds me that with support, belief, and access to education, even the most modest beginnings can lead to dreams realized.

Here is the inspiring journey of Najaf Gull, who turned the opportunities she received into a path of hope and service for her community. I am grateful for every step that brought me here where I am today. After completing my matriculation at ABTTS, I was awarded a scholarship from ABF, which supported me through my graduation and gave me the confidence to dream bigger. That support lifted a burden from my shoulders and allowed me to focus on learning, exploring, and growing. I still fondly remember my teachers, especially Miss Rabia, who had a way of making difficult subjects feel simple and encouraged me to always ask questions. She showed me that curiosity was not only allowed—it was essential. My school years were full of experiences that shaped me beyond the classroom: educational trips, outdoor activities, workshops, and career guidance sessions opened my eyes to the world and helped me imagine a future I once thought impossible. Participating in speech competitions and performing on stage gave me confidence I carry with me to this day. Today, I am able to support my family while caring for my mother, who is ill, and I continue to pursue my dreams in education. I have completed my MPhil in Educational and Leadership Policy Studies, and my heart is set on earning a PhD, so I can serve my community in even more meaningful ways. Every opportunity I received has shaped who I am, and I hope to pay it forward—helping others find the guidance, encouragement, and support that once lit the path for me. Education, I have learned, is not just a personal achievement; it is a gift that can transform families, communities, and futures.

From the modest streets of her neighborhood to the classrooms where she first learned to dream, Syeda Konain Shah’s story is one of growth, perseverance, and hope. I was just three years old when I started school at Alam Bibi Taleem-o-Tarbiat School. My father, a humble driver, and my mother, a devoted homemaker, gave me a loving home and a strong foundation, even in our modest circumstances. At Alam Bibi, I found more than just education—I found a second home, a place where my childhood unfolded with joy, creativity, and learning. My teachers nurtured me patiently, shaping my thoughts and ideas, guiding me gently like sculptors with clay. Every lesson, every activity, and every word of encouragement helped me grow into a confident and curious learner. I especially remember the mentorship of Dr. Farah Deeba Akram, whose guidance inspired me to aim higher and dream bigger. My school years were filled with art, craft, speech competitions, and co-curricular activities, all of which gave me confidence, honed my skills, and made learning a joyful adventure. I once dreamed of becoming a doctor, but as I progressed in my studies, I discovered a deep interest in Chartered Accountancy. Today, I pursue this path with dedication and passion, determined to achieve my goals and help others, just as I was supported and encouraged during the pivotal moments of my life