I may be the first in my family to receive an education, but I don't want to be the last.
Growing up in a marginalized fishing community, Almas Kasmani learned from an early age that opportunities were scarce and dreams often had to compete with difficult realities. Her mother managed the household while her two brothers worked as fishermen to support the family. Her father, who was also a fisherman, was no longer part of their lives. In a community where few girls had the chance to pursue an education, Almas became the first member of her family to step into a classroom.
Her journey with TCF began in Nursery at the TCF Infaq Foundation Campus, where she spent her entire school life before graduating in 2019. Over the years, TCF became more than a place of learning. It became a space where she developed confidence, resilience, and the belief that her circumstances did not have to define her future.
TCF gave me something my community had never seen before, the belief that education could change the course of my life.
Life after matriculation was far from easy. Financial and personal challenges forced Almas to put her education on hold. While many would have accepted that at the end of their academic journey, she refused to let temporary setbacks become permanent barriers.
Determined to keep moving forward, she recently resumed her studies through Allama Iqbal Open University, where she is currently pursuing her Intermediate education. Alongside her studies, she invested in building practical skills, completing professional courses in graphic design and social media management to prepare herself for new opportunities.
Education also inspired her to think beyond her own future. Three years ago, Almas joined hands with fellow TCF alumnus Ali Ahmed Samoo to co-found Salt Water Marina. This is an initiative dedicated to creating opportunities within their coastal community. What began as a shared vision has since grown into a registered social enterprise, formally established in November 2025.
We wanted to prove that young people from communities like ours can become creators of opportunity, not just beneficiaries of it.
Today, Almas continues balancing her education, professional development, and social entrepreneurship. Through Salt Water Marina, she is helping create sustainable opportunities while demonstrating that meaningful change often begins with those who understand their communities best. Her story is about far more than personal achievement. It is about breaking cycles, creating opportunities where few existed, and proving that education can empower individuals to become changemakers for others.
Almas Kasmani is a TCF alumna, an aspiring entrepreneur, and a passionate advocate for her community. Her journey reminds us that when one child is given access to education, the impact extends far beyond the classroom. It reaches families, communities, and future generations.
