My name is Iqra Ayub, and my story is one of resilience, vision, and transformation. I got married at the age of 20—a time when most people around me expected that my focus would shift entirely to family life. But deep inside, I carried the spark of ambition. I didn’t just want to live a life of routine—I wanted to build something of my own, to prove that being a mother and a successful woman could go hand in hand.
Back in 2012, freelancing was still a foreign concept to many. Platforms like Upwork were still known as oDesk, and the idea of working from home on a laptop for clients across the globe was unheard of in my circle. But I was curious. I started researching, reading, and learning. I discovered oDesk and took my first step by creating a basic profile.
My first project was simple, yet intimidating—“Write 50 Dog Names.” It sounds easy now, but back then, I had no idea where to start. I had no formal training in writing, no mentor, and no professional background. But what I did have was hunger—to learn, to grow, and to not give up. I turned to YouTube, free resources, and short online courses. Slowly but surely, I taught myself the skills I needed.
With time, I began receiving multiple orders for website content. I immersed myself in SEO, content strategy, and digital marketing. As the workload grew, so did my confidence—and eventually, my team. I started hiring and training others, creating opportunities for people like me who just needed a chance.
In 2019, I took a bold step forward and officially launched my brand: iQwrites. What started as a one-woman operation turned into a recognized digital content and branding agency. I didn’t just want to serve clients—I wanted to build a brand that stood for quality, creativity, and empowerment.
As my expertise grew, so did my mission to give back. Today, I’m not only providing digital marketing services through iQwrites but also sharing my knowledge as a trainer at Innovista Chenab, Multan. Helping others unlock their potential and build their digital careers has become one of the most rewarding aspects of my journey. Watching students grow and thrive reminds me of where I started—and how far determination can take you.
The recognition followed. I was honored with the Freelancer of the Year 2022 award by the Youth Parliament. Later that year, I was named Icon of the Year 2022 by the State of Youth. In 2023, I received the Heroes Award by Connected Pakistan and had the incredible opportunity to speak at the Connected Women Conference—sharing my story and inspiring other women who, like me, were balancing ambition with motherhood.
But this journey hasn’t been easy. Behind every milestone was a day of juggling deadlines and diapers, meetings and mealtimes. I raised a family while building a career. I wrote proposals with a baby in my lap. I led client calls while managing household chores. There were moments of doubt, exhaustion, and isolation. But I kept going—because I believed that women don’t have to choose between personal and professional success. We can be mothers, CEOs, and trainers—all in one.
Today, I stand not just as the founder of a successful brand but as a woman who wore every role with strength. My journey is proof that success doesn’t require perfect conditions—only a determined heart and a vision that refuses to fade.
If I can do it, so can you.
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