Islamabad, December 15, 2023: S&P Global Pakistan has successfully mentored 20,000 women across the country as part of its Million Women Mentors (MWM) programme. Initiated in 2020, the program is designed to ignite curiosity and boost the self-assurance of women to thrive in STEM (Science, Technology,
Engineering, and Mathematics) careers and leadership positions, leveraging the transformative influence of mentorship. The program culminated in a grand event held at a central location in Islamabad. The event was graced by Andrew Schofer, the Chargé d’Affaires of the U.S. Embassy in Pakistan, who served as the Chief Guest. His presence underscored the importance of the Million Women Mentors (MWM) programme and its impact on promoting women in STEM fields in Pakistan.
The objective of the program has been to establish connections between one million women and girls and mentors, empowering them to reach their ambitions in the STEM field. S&P Global Pakistan, in collaboration with its People Resource Group WINS (Women’s Initiative for Networking & Success), Islamabad, joined forces with the US-Pakistan Women’s Council (USPWC) to take the lead in MWM.
While applauding the Million Women Mentors (MWM) programme, Andrew Schofer, the Chargé d’Affaires of the U.S. Embassy in Pakistan said, “Mentoring is a powerful way to encourage and equip women and girls to pursue their career in al sectors. We are incredibly excited that S&P Global joined with us in this initiative and has been trailblazer in reaching their mentoring commitments. Mentorship nurtures our next generation of professionals in the workplace and can enable women to rise to positions of leadership”.
Mr. Schofer mentioned that with women accounting for only 14.4% of total business owners in Pakistan, and more than twice the number of women out of the labor force than men, the Mission knew that women were the true key to unlocking economic growth.
Mujeeb Zahur, Managing Director, S&P Global Pakistan, said, “This landmark achievement highlights our commitment to progress and equality, embodied in the Million Women Mentors (MWM) initiative. MWM not only opens doors for women in STEM but also fosters business and digital marketing skills, bridging the global skills gap and promoting an inclusive economy. S&P Global Pakistan, steadfast in its mission, continues to uplift communities and empower women. This success reiterates our dedication to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI).”
To honor their commitment, S&P Global Pakistan, teamed up with the Society for International Education (SIE), The Indus Entrepreneurs (TIE), She Means Work (SMW), National Incubation Center (NIC), Epiphany, CaterpillHers, and xCircle Women.
Under the MWM program over 250 sessions were conducted, engaging 150+ S&P Global mentors who dedicated more than 1170 volunteer hours. Covering a diverse range of STEM-related topics, the program mentors provided critical support to women entrepreneurs and professionals. The mentorship covered areas such as STEM Awareness, Upscaling Business using Technology, Growth Mindset, Confidence and Imposter Syndrome, Freelancing, Digital Marketing, Building Resumes, and LinkedIn profiles. The commitment to mentor 20,000 women, and girls over three years has reached fruition. The MWM initiative has been lauded for the impact it has had and won the Vanguard Award in 2020 while earning an Honorable Mention in 2021.