East Meets West: Pakistani Professional Journeys

Syed Azam Afzal
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§  The goal of this podcast is to provide stories and experiences of Pakistani professionals in their respective industries and to allow listeners to be more informed of their field of interest.  §  A common connection being Pakistani roots allows for relatable stories for individuals who are looking to grow in their profession or simply want to learn more about a particular field.  §  There will be no industry left untouched from start-ups, traditional careers paths or newer outlets such as podcasts, YouTube or side hustles. Join me as we explore the various careers that Pakistani professionals are working at in the West. 

  1. S4 EP 1 | Senior Strategist @ Google | Ft. Mohammad Usman Mirza

    JAN 11

    S4 EP 1 | Senior Strategist @ Google | Ft. Mohammad Usman Mirza

    Welcome to the East Meets West Pakistan Profession Journeys podcast! In this episode, we are joined by Mohammad Usman Mirza, a remarkable professional who has made significant strides in the global tech industry. From his roots in Pakistan, being educated at LUMS, to seizing international opportunities in Singapore and Ireland, Usman has worked on high-impact projects at Meta and Google. He shares his deeply-rooted connections to Pakistan, emphasizes the country's allure and resiliency, and discusses his transitions, challenges, and the keys to breaking into big tech. Usman also sheds light on his passion for mentoring and uplifting professionals, providing actionable advice for those aiming to carve their own paths in the global landscape. Tune in to explore both the personal and professional aspects of Usman's journey! 00:00 ‌Intro 00:52 Personal Ties to Pakistan 02:09 Describing Pakistan to the World 03:59 Motivation to Study Abroad 06:15 Challenges and Adjustments Abroad 08:37 Career Growth and Opportunities 11:23 Breaking into Big Tech 14:29 What is a Senior Strategist? 18:42 The Importance of Networking 19:41 Career Coaching and Mentorship Services 22:58 Essential Skills for Working Abroad 25:03 Mindset and Preparation for Success 27:58 Common Mistakes in Job Applications 32:00 Advice to My Younger Self 37:26 AI Benefits 38:12 Defining Success in Life and Career 42:05 Conclusion

    43 min
  2. S3 EP 16 | Senior Controller At Stage Vision | Ft. Shaikh Muhammad Farooq

    08/11/2025

    S3 EP 16 | Senior Controller At Stage Vision | Ft. Shaikh Muhammad Farooq

    In this episode of the East Meets West Pakistani Professional Journeys Podcast, we sit down with Shaikh Muhammad Farooq, a seasoned strategic finance leader with over 17 years of experience across Pakistan, the Middle East, and Canada. Farooq shares his professional journey, from his humble beginnings in Karachi to his significant roles in Saudi Arabia and eventual transition to a senior financial position in Canada. He discusses the importance of staying adaptable, continuous learning, and the critical role of credentials like CPA in advancing one’s career. Farooq also offers valuable insights into the intricacies of leadership differences across regions, the value of networking, and the importance of storytelling in finance. Join us as we explore his transition through various industries, his advice for aspiring finance professionals, and key lessons learned. 00:00 Guest Introduction: Shaikh Muhammad Farooq 01:13 Early Career and Education in Karachi 02:12 Navigating Post-Secondary Education 02:51 Entering the Professional World 03:22 Experience in Saudi Arabia 04:08 Transition to Canada 04:59 Advice for Job Seekers 06:22 Importance of Networking 07:08 Adapting to Canadian Work Culture 07:25 Pursuing CPA Certification 08:08 Leadership Differences: Middle East vs. Canada 10:28 Maintaining Interest in Finance 11:53 Role of a Financial Controller 13:01 Storytelling in Finance 15:08 Advice for New Immigrants 17:12 Key Skills and Habits for Success 19:04 Advice for Recent Graduates 21:27 Defining Success

    23 min
  3. S3 EP 15 | CEO At AMCOB | Ft. Kashif Zubair

    07/28/2025

    S3 EP 15 | CEO At AMCOB | Ft. Kashif Zubair

    In this episode of the East Meets West Pakistani Professional Journeys Podcast, Kashif Zubair, the CEO of AMCOB and a PI certified partner at the Predictive Index, shares his remarkable journey. From his early years in Pakistan to his transition to the US, Kashif discusses the challenges, successes, and life lessons that shaped his career. He emphasizes the importance of learning from both the best and worst examples, the significance of having a strong faith, and how to leverage professional networking for success. We delve into Kashif's professional timeline, highlighting his roles at EY, PWC, and his leadership in empowering the Muslim community. This episode is a compelling exploration of resilience, faith, and strategic career planning. Tune in to gain valuable insights and inspiration from Kashif's story. 00:00 Intro 02:31 Early Life in Pakistan 03:44 Academic Journey at IBA Karachi 05:56 Professional Beginnings at EY 08:04 Mentorship and Learning 10:53 Transition to the US 12:13 Post-9/11 Reflections on Islam 14:16 Career Growth at PwC 16:55 Mapping Career At A Young Age 18:41 Founding AMCOB 19:25 Career Planning and Entrepreneurship 21:36 The Importance of Execution Over Strategy 22:14 Becoming a Predictive Index Certified Partner 22:45 Insights from Working with Fortune 500 Companies 23:10 The Impact of George Floyd's Murder 23:49 Discovering Systemic Inequality 27:14 Encouraging Muslim Entrepreneurship 28:27 Advice for Young Entrepreneurs 31:25 Building a Strong Relationship with Allah 33:32 Groups To Join 38:10 Defining Success in Life and Business

    43 min
  4. S3 EP 14 | Program Manager Google Shopping | Ft. Adeel Saya

    07/12/2025

    S3 EP 14 | Program Manager Google Shopping | Ft. Adeel Saya

    In this episode of the East Meets West Pakistani Professional Journeys Podcast, we sit down with Adeel Saya, a seasoned global leader with 15 years of experience spanning across Google, eBay, and PWC. Adeel shares insights from his upbringing in Karachi, his educational journey at LUMS and Warwick, and his impressive career transitions. He also discusses the importance of networking, skills needed to succeed in large companies, and how he balances work with mentoring roles. Tune in to discover Adeel's personal definition of success and valuable advice for young professionals aiming to break into the tech and consulting industries. 00:00 Clip 00:57 Guest Introduction: Adeel Saya 01:27 Early Life in Pakistan 02:45 Education at LUMS 03:59 Moving Abroad for Higher Studies 05:19 Settling in the UK 06:53 Building a Support System 08:27 Professional Journey: PWC, eBay, and Google 11:05 Career Planning and Opportunities 14:18 Networking: The Key to Success 16:53 Mentoring at Stanford Seed 18:49 Advice to Younger Self 20:50 Staying Updated with Technology 25:38 Defining Success: A Personal Perspective

    28 min
  5. S3 EP 13 | Associate Director at Finch Ratings | Ft. Mehak Zaidi, MFin

    06/29/2025

    S3 EP 13 | Associate Director at Finch Ratings | Ft. Mehak Zaidi, MFin

    Join us on this episode of the East Meets West Pakistani Professional Journeys Podcast as we sit down with Mehak Zaidi. Mehak shares her inspiring journey from studying accounting and finance at LUMS in Pakistan to achieving her Master's in Finance from McMaster University in Canada. With prior work experience at RBC and S&P Global Ratings, Mehak now serves as the Associate Director at Fitch Ratings. Discover her experiences, challenges, and the lessons she learned in transitioning from Pakistan to the West. She offers valuable insights into networking, job hunting, and staying motivated through challenging times. This episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in professional growth, especially those considering a move from Asian countries to the West. Tune in biweekly every Sunday at 5:00 PM on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple iTunes. 00:00 Intro 01:28 Early Life and Education in Pakistan 02:04 Life at LUMS 03:15 Memorable Experiences at LUMS 05:19 Key Connections and Mentorship in Pakistan 06:41 Support from Family and Overcoming Challenges 07:56 Importance of Financial Literacy for Women 10:08 Journey to Canada for Higher Education 11:35 Securing the First Job in Canada 12:54 Experience at RBC 14:13 Transition to S&P Global Ratings 15:58 Reaching Out To Network 17:23 S&P Role 19:06 Role and Responsibilities at S&P 22:16 Joining Fitch Ratings 24:47 Balancing Work and Personal Life 26:54 Key Habits Developed 28:32 Accelerate Your Career 31:06 Advice for Newcomers to the West 33:28 Defining Success 35:10 Final Thoughts and Reflections

    36 min
  6. S3 EP 12 | Partner Streetsville Consulting CPA LLP & Chairman US-Canada Chapter of ICAP Member | Ft. Raza Toor

    06/15/2025

    S3 EP 12 | Partner Streetsville Consulting CPA LLP & Chairman US-Canada Chapter of ICAP Member | Ft. Raza Toor

    In this episode of the East Meets West Pakistani Professional Journeys podcast, we feature Raza Toor, an accredited professional accountant from Canada, Pakistan, and the UK, and a successful realtor in the Greater Toronto Area. Raza shares his experiences of moving from Pakistan to Canada, the challenges he faced, his journey towards becoming an entrepreneur, and valuable advice for aspiring professionals. Tune in to gain insights on adaptability, unlearning and relearning, overcoming fears, and achieving a balanced professional and personal life. 00:00 ‌Intro 01:16 Guest Introduction: Raza Toor 02:00 Raza's Early Life and Education in Pakistan 02:32 Professional Journey in Pakistan 03:18 Teaching Experience in Pakistan 03:39 Choosing Chartered Accountancy 04:49 Decision to Move to Canada 05:29 Challenges of Moving to Canada 08:43 Starting a Firm in Canada 10:10 Overcoming Fear and Mistakes 10:59 Importance of Referrals in Accounting Firm and Real Estate 12:40 Overcoming Fear Of Failure 14:54 Key Advice To Starting Your Own Firm 18:13 Experience in the Real Estate Industry 19:06 Overcoming Losing Client Leads Or Deals 20:55 Balancing Multiple Roles 22:25 Chairman Role at ICAP 24:42 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs 26:59 Advice To Accelerate Career 28:59 Defining Success

    31 min
  7. How to Land a Summer Internship | 6 Tips Every Student Needs to Know | Ft. Azam

    06/01/2025

    How to Land a Summer Internship | 6 Tips Every Student Needs to Know | Ft. Azam

    Welcome to the East Meets West Professionals Journeys podcast! This episode is essential for students aiming to secure a summer job. Learn why these roles are pivotal beyond just earning a paycheck, shaping your resume, mindset, and network. We delve into six key strategies: starting early, leveraging alumni connections, reflecting and improving, considering smaller firms, utilizing professors as resources, and staying adaptable. Whether you're aiming for consulting, finance, tech, healthcare, or the non-profit sector, this roadmap offers valuable insights to help you thrive. Tune in for practical advice and tools to boost your academic and professional journey. 00:00 Intro 00:36 Strategy #1: Start. Build. Lead.  02:01 Strategy #2: Connecting With Alumni 03:31 Strategy #3: Reflect. Practice. Improve 04:32 Strategy #4: Think Smaller Too 05:12 Strategy #5: Professors = Allies 05:54 Strategy #6: Adjust When Needed 06:28 Conclusion

    7 min
  8. S3 EP 10 | Founder Revohub and Director of Training + Employment | Ft. Maham Khalid

    05/18/2025

    S3 EP 10 | Founder Revohub and Director of Training + Employment | Ft. Maham Khalid

    In this episode of East Meets West Pakistani Professional Journeys Podcast, we dive into the inspiring journey of Maham Khalid. With a double major in psychology and sociology and a Master's in Public Administration from the University of Punjab, Maham shares her experiences from Pakistan to her transition to a successful HR manager and project manager career in Canada. Founder of Revo Hub, Maham discusses the challenges and triumphs of starting her own venture, addressing cultural barriers, integration, and the significance of resilience and perseverance. Tune in to learn about career mapping, personal branding, and the intersection of human resources and technology. 00:00 Intro 01:42 Early Life and Education in Pakistan 02:41 Transition to Life in Canada 04:29 Challenges Faced as an Immigrant in Canada 06:45 Career Path in HR 09:49 Founding Revo Hub 14:41 Balancing Entrepreneurship and Life 16:44 Maintain Positive Attitude 18:30 Director at YWCA 20:43 Time Management Strategies 23:01 Setting and Achieving Goals 25:13 Advice for Newcomers to Canada 27:36 Breaking Into HR sector 30:44 Defining Success

    32 min
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About

§  The goal of this podcast is to provide stories and experiences of Pakistani professionals in their respective industries and to allow listeners to be more informed of their field of interest.  §  A common connection being Pakistani roots allows for relatable stories for individuals who are looking to grow in their profession or simply want to learn more about a particular field.  §  There will be no industry left untouched from start-ups, traditional careers paths or newer outlets such as podcasts, YouTube or side hustles. Join me as we explore the various careers that Pakistani professionals are working at in the West. 

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