“Even if it’s little, earn on your own” – Sarah Shariq

woman @ work

You! Tell us a little about yourself?

Sarah Shariq: I am a businesswoman with an experience in the IT industry of over 11 years. I have a Master’s degree in Business Administration and since then working with EZY infotech. Ever since I was young, I knew I was going to work. I got married in 2014 and now I am a mother of a 7-year-old girl. I became a member of Rotary International in the year 2021 and I have been offering my services as a member of RCK Intellects Karachi and holding a chair for women empowerment. Being the director, my vision for EZY as an organisation is to engage with the economies, we are present in, by delivering world class products and solutions that makes for a secured and digitised nation and diversifying EZY group of Companies.

You! Being a woman, what kind of challenges did you face while starting off in the corporate world?

SS: When my father had asked me to join EZY 11 years ago, I was terrified, but I said yes because I had promised myself that I would always run towards what frightens me the most, which is why I love roller coasters (Haha).

Well, this past decade has certainly given me the thrill of a rollercoaster ride. Working in an IT industry as a woman - which is heavily male-dominated - is not easy, especially when you have two worlds to balance, and I must say, being a woman entrepreneur is all about taking risks.

When I started working, people were not accepting me I was in a higher position and in HR. People would not treat me the way a man would have been treated in my position. I used to get upset and overwhelmed constantly, but thanks to my father who gave me the much-needed support.

I got married after I had begun working, soon after I was pregnant, which was the hardest part, I came to office all three trimesters without any leave, just because I wanted to prove my worth. Even today, not many people accept the fact that females can be bosses too, even if they have worked hard for it, even if they deserve to be here, even if they are capable of handling things.

You! What is one motto that you live by?

SS: Don’t take negative comments on your heart. The key is to ignore and move on.

You! What is the most exciting part of your work?

SS: I am most excited about collaborating and working towards something big - a common goal. Every day at work is an opportunity where I must contribute to the growth of the company.

You! What is the most difficult part of your job?

SS: Firing people.

You! What is one thing you are most proud of?

SS: When my father says I am a son to him, it makes me feel very proud. I can do whatever it takes to put a smile on his face.

You! What are the positive points of being economically independent?

SS: When you are economically independent, you can take your own decisions - from the freedom of choice, to controlling matters that mean most in one’s life. You can also give your children a comfortable life. Besides that, you can live life on your own terms.

You! What is the most important advice you can give to women?

SS: Try not to rely on others, and become independent. Even if it’s little, earn on your own.

You! What is your biggest indulgence at home?

SS: Netflix. It’s my ‘me’ time.

You! What is your most treasured possession?

SS: I collect pens from all around the world.

You! What is the biggest relationship lesson you have learnt so far?

SS: Only trust your family. No matter what, your family is always there.

You! How do you keep a balance between family life and work?

SS: As everything in life, it used to be quite difficult, but now I have been managing it really well. I spend quality time with my in-laws and friends. We plan dinners together; and my daughter likes to be with her cousins, so I host them on weekends.

You! What are your future plans for your company?

SS: We plan to diversify our brand, and expand business outside the country in the near future.

You! What is the secret to your professional growth?

SS: I have been able to keep a balance between work and family.

You! What advice would you give to young girls who are trying to get into the corporate world?

SS: Even the storyline of movies has changed from Prince Charming saving Cinderella to Anna saving her sister Elsa without the help of any prince, it’s a woman’s world, go out there and prove yourself!

You! What is the hardest part of being a working mother?

SS: I feel my child lacks trust because of me being a working mother. My work requires for me to travel. Ever since she was born, she has seen me go to work leaving her behind with her grandmother. And whenever I leave her for a short time, she gets scared that maybe mom will be gone for hours or maybe days. Now, I try to plan my trips around her schedule or drop them altogether.

You! What is the favourite part of your day?

SS: When I come back from work and my daughter comes running to me to give me the tightest hug, then sits on my lap and tells me stories about her day.

You! What qualities do you think every working individual should possess?
SS: Time management. A good worker knows how to manage time.

You! How should women support other women in their organisations?

SS: I feel it is our social responsibility to use our influence to guide other women. It is essential that we respect each other’s thoughts, views and opinions. Allowing them the space to be whoever they want to without judgment. Women can achieve anything in the world; which is why I applaud every woman in the corporate world, for raising their voice towards positive change.

You! Is there anything that you feel guilty about?

SS: Women entrepreneurs always feel the need to conform, they have difficulty building a support system in a male-led society and women have the pre-requisite duty of taking care of the house, family and children, and thus we often feel guilty about not paying enough attention to our families.

You! What is your ultimate desire?

SS: To see my daughter grow and become a confident woman.