Transforming Lives Through Equine Welfare: Sehjan’s Inspiring Journey

Village Vahroon Bheel, Union Council Mohrano, Tharparkar

My name is Sehjan, wife of Umar, and I am 37 years old. I belong to the remote village of Vahroon Bheel, located in Union Council Mohrano, around 28 kilometers from Mithi, Tharparkar. Life here is tough, especially for women like me who rely heavily on animals—like donkeys—for daily tasks such as fetching water and carrying mud.

Before, I never truly understood the importance of the donkey I used every day. Like many in our community, I didn’t realize the suffering these animals endured or how to properly care for them. Donkeys are often overlooked in our society—they are seen as tools rather than living beings who also need care and attention.

Everything changed about a year ago when the Sukaar Foundation visited our village. Their team introduced us to the Equine Welfare Project, explaining the pain and challenges faced by working equines, and the urgent need for proper care and hoof trimming. They formed a women’s group in our village and asked the community to nominate a woman for specialized training.

With the support of my fellow villagers, I was selected to attend a 5-day hoof trimming training held at the Sukaar Office in Mithi from June 13–17, 2022. It was my first time learning something so unique and impactful. Through hands-on practice, I saw the pain animals go through when their hooves are neglected. That experience deeply moved me, and I made a silent promise to myself that I would dedicate my efforts to improving animal welfare.

After trimming of hooves

Cleanliness of hooves

After trimming of hooves

After completing my training, I was hired by Sukaar Foundation as a Community Resource Person (CRP). Now, I work across five villages, conducting awareness sessions on animal welfare and providing hoof trimming services for donkeys and other equines. Every day, I handle 3–4 cases, earning around 200 to 300 PKR per day—not just an income, but a sign of community trust and the growing importance of equine care.

Today, I stand not only as a woman from a backward village but as a trained hoof care provider, a voice for animal welfare, and a proud CRP of Sukaar Foundation. This opportunity has not only helped me become financially empowered but also changed how our community views the animals we depend on every day.

Together, we are creating a more compassionate and aware society—one hoof at a time.