Akhuwat is the organizational realization of the values set by the Islamic tradition of MawaKhat (مواخات). From a historical and philosophical discourse to a pragmatic methodology of poverty alleviation Akhuwat was introduced to the modern world by Dr. Amjad Saqib. Prior to establishing Akhuwat, he was associated with the Punjab Rural Support Program (PRSP). Most of his time was spent interacting with marginalized and impoverished individuals. He was a witness to their struggle and the hurdles they encountered in the acquisition of financial assistance in order to become self-sufficient and productive members of society. In 2001, Dr. Amjad Saqib invited a group of friends who were thorough professionals and successful entrepreneurs in their own right. He discussed the resolve, courage, and determination that could be found in even the poorest of households of Pakistan and the exorbitant interest rates these individuals were required to pay when trying to obtain funds. The idea of initiating an interest-free microfinance program was floated. The friends pledged their overwhelming support. Dr. Amjad Saqib volunteered to design and implement the first-ever interest-free loan initiative. From this humble beginning, the seed of Akhuwat was sowed. It began to germinate as donations started coming from friends and family. This group of philanthropists who believed in using interest-free microfinance to bring Pakistan closer to becoming a poverty-free society became Akhuwat’s first Board of Directors, with Dr. Amjad Saqib serving as Executive Director. Dr. Amjad Saqib’s firm belief in the poor as self-motivated, trustworthy, and reliable individuals soon grew to be a belief that was held by everyone associated with Akhuwat, forming the basis for the organization’s present culture. Every year the donations far exceeded the initial expectations. By 2003 donations touched PKR 1.5 million with a 100% recovery rate. At that stage, the organization was formalized by its registration under the Societies Registration Act of 1860. The first branch was opened in Township, Lahore. With the passage of time, Akhuwat continued to open branches outside Lahore, diversified its loan products, and expanded its clientele. As a result, the message and outreach of Akhuwat began to spread and several new donors generously contributed. As a rule, the costs were kept very low. Extreme simplicity in operational activities, modest offices, use of mosques and other religious places, as well as high level and commitment of its volunteers became its assurance and this ensured the certainty of its success.