- LADIESFUND is a purpose-driven, globally recognised ecosystem connecting women to capital, markets, mentorship and opportunities
Interview with Ms. Tara Uzra Dawood, the founder and president of LADIESFUND
PAGE: Tell me something about yourself, please.
Tara Uzra Dawood: I am an entrepreneur, investor, and advocate for women’s economic participation, and the founder and president of LADIESFUND, Pakistan’s leading women’s leadership and investment platform with budding presence in the Gulf. My work focuses on building credible, values-driven ecosystems that connect women to capital, markets, mentorship, and global opportunities. I strongly believe that sustainable economic growth comes from investing in people, long-term brand equity, and inclusive leadership.
PAGE: What is your perspective about leading brands in Pakistan?
Tara Uzra Dawood: Pakistan has several strong blue chip brands with deep consumer trust and market reach, yet too many still treat branding as short-term advertising rather than a long-term strategic asset. The next generation of Pakistani brands must focus on quality, innovation, governance, storytelling, and global standards. Brands that build emotional connection and credibility — rather than competing only on price — will be the ones that scale internationally.
PAGE: How would you comment on LADIESFUND as a brand?
Tara Uzra Dawood: LADIESFUND is a purpose-driven, globally recognized platform built on credibility, access, and impact. The brand encompasses the LADIESFUND Member Awards, an influential network of leading women, The Buraq Center incubator for women entrepreneurs, Savings and Growth Investment Plans for women, the Educate a Girl vocational and Zakat programme, and a globally award-winning solar roof installation reflecting its commitment to sustainability.
More than a brand, LADIESFUND is an ecosystem and a movement —attracting women who want to lead, invest, and contribute to long-term national and global impact. With chapters in Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, Multan, Skadu, Peshawar, Barcelona, Kuala Lumpar, London, DC, Toronto and New York City, we are looking to expand to the Gulf.
PAGE: What is your standpoint on brand value and creating international brands by Pakistanis?
Tara Uzra Dawood: Brand value is one of Pakistan’s most underutilized economic assets. To create international brands, Pakistanis must invest in quality, design, intellectual property, governance, and consistency — while confidently owning their identity. Global brands are built through patience and long-term vision, not shortcuts. Pakistan has the talent and creativity to compete internationally if brand-building is treated as a serious strategic investment.
PAGE: What should be the policies of the government in supporting new brands?
Tara Uzra Dawood: The government should act as an enabler by simplifying regulations, protecting intellectual property, improving access to finance, and supporting exports and innovation. Targeted support for women- and youth-led enterprises is essential, as are public-private partnerships to incubate and scale new brands. Policy consistency and regulatory clarity from the Government of Pakistan are critical for entrepreneurs to build enduring, globally competitive brands.