Forbes has recently unveiled its highly anticipated eighth annual 30 Under 30 Asia list, showcasing the extraordinary accomplishments of 300 young entrepreneurs, leaders, and trailblazers from the Asia-Pacific region. This prestigious recognition celebrates the exceptional talents shaping various industries in the region.
Notably, Pakistan takes pride in having five remarkable individuals included in this year’s roster. Let’s celebrate their outstanding accomplishments as they should:
Ayesha Mubarak Ali (Arts)
Recognized for her outstanding contributions in The Arts, Ayesha Mubarak Ali stands out as a beacon of creativity and innovation. She is a renowned multimedia visual tech artist of global acclaim and has garnered widespread recognition for her innovative approach that seamlessly merges traditional techniques with cutting-edge digital technology.
Majorly, her artistic creations delve into a wide range of captivating themes, including identity politics, light pollution, space exploration, and the future of humanity. Ayesha holds the distinction of being the trailblazing Pakistani artist who successfully collaborated with esteemed scientists from NASA.
Ayesha’s fusion-art practice has been showcased at distinguished international events and exhibitions, such as the Karachi Biennale and Islington Mill Gallery, where her captivating pieces have left a lasting impression on art enthusiasts and critics alike.
Azam Mahmood (Media, Marketing & Advertising)
Azam Mehmood’s inclusion in the Media, Marketing & Advertising category highlights his profound impact on the industry. He is an exceptionally talented screenwriter who has been recognized for his invaluable contributions to the entertainment industry.
Drawing from his own personal experiences growing up in Karachi, Azam has skillfully utilized his storytelling prowess to shed light on the narratives of queer individuals of color, filling a significant representation gap.
Presently, Azam holds the position of a story editor on the highly anticipated reboot of the acclaimed drama series, Queer as Folk. Furthermore, he collaborates closely with the esteemed Golden Globe-winning actor, Ramy Youssef, on the creation of the widely acclaimed show, Ramy.
Through his authentic and captivating storytelling, Azam tackles subjects like male vulnerability with a delicate balance of sensitivity and humor, allowing audiences to connect with the characters and their journeys on a profound level.
Also read: #EmbraceEquity: Celebrating Pakistani Women Who Defied All Odds & Made Their Mark Globally
Shershah Hassan and Waleed Amjad Islam (Finance & Venture Capital)
Shershah Hassan and Waleed Amjad Islam’s recognition in Finance & Venture Capital showcase their prowess in navigating the complex world of investments. Their groundbreaking startup, KalPay, operates on the principles of Sharia compliance, offering a unique buy-now-pay-later platform.
Recognizing the need for financial access, especially among underserved communities, Shershah and Waleed have forged strategic partnerships with prominent tech companies like Foodpanda and Muawin. These collaborations have enabled KalPay to expand its reach and provide a convenient and inclusive solution for seamless transactions.
With their innovative and inclusive approach to financial services, Shershah Hassan and Waleed Amjad Islam are driving the much-needed financial inclusion in Pakistan, empowering individuals and reshaping the future of the industry.
Anas Niaz (Social Impact)
Anas Niaz’s acknowledgment for Social Impact underscores his dedication to making a positive difference in society. As the visionary founder of Bioniks, he has garnered recognition for his groundbreaking endeavors in the field of social entrepreneurship.
Since its establishment in 2016, Bioniks has been at the forefront of developing cost-effective bionic arms, revolutionizing the accessibility of prosthetic technology. Utilizing advanced 3D printing techniques, Bioniks creates tailor-made prosthetics embedded with sensors and software, empowering users to manipulate objects with the aid of robotic fingers.
Furthermore, Bioniks has implemented a cloud system that allows for updates and monitoring of the prosthetics, ensuring optimal performance and adaptability. Beyond their technological advancements, Bioniks fosters a spirit of inclusivity and community support by connecting individuals in need with potential donors.
These talented individuals from Pakistan exemplify the nation’s rising influence on the global stage, serving as inspiration for aspiring young entrepreneurs and leaders.
Also read: Pakistani Climate Activist Ayisha Siddiqa Makes It To TIME’s Women Of The Year 2023 List
Forbes’ 30 Under 30 Asia list serves as a testament to the immense potential and remarkable achievements of these outstanding individuals, propelling them to even greater heights and paving the way for a brighter future.
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