Tell us about your educational and/or career journey since you graduated from Brunel?
After graduating from Brunel, I have worked on strategic transitions and operations of industrial units and held positions in the edible oil, sugar, steel and ethanol industries. Since 2016 I have been a member of the Madinah Foundation, a leading philanthropic organisation in Pakistan. One of the main projects of the Madinah Foundation is The University of Faisalabad - where I currently serve as a Chair on the Board of Governors - which is a Category ‘W-4’ University (the highest grade awarded on the Education Commission criteria for faculty, programs, infrastructure, resources, laboratories, training facilities and endowment funds).
What does a typical day at work involve for you?
As the Chairman, I am the Administrative Head of the University of Faisalabad - formally Head of all Staff - and the Principal Officer designated to oversee the overall effectiveness of the University's governance and compliance structures and to ensure the integrity of the conduct of the University. On a typical day, I provide the provision of a professional committee secretariat service to the University’s key governance and executive bodies. Further, I overlook the administration of the University’s governance structures and ensure processes operate in conformity with the University’s constitution and other compliance requirements.
What’s been the highlight of your career journey so far?
As part of my role with the Madinah Foundation, I led the creation of a shelter home for the homeless in Faisalabad, Pakistan, which was founded in 2019. The shelter home can accommodate over 350 people and the Foundation also provides three meals a day and medical treatment to the people living there. It was inaugurated by Prime Minister Imran Khan and his team. It was the highlight of my career because I led the project, and it came to fruition benefitting the communities facing austerity and hardships in the city of Faisalabad.
How would you say your Brunel experience has helped you to get where you are today?
Studying at Brunel widened my worldview. I was lucky enough to be part of a diverse group and learn from fellow peers all around the world - many people I am still in contact with today. It also offered me opportunities to improve my way of learning. Since studying at Brunel, I have aimed for career opportunities that reflect the excellent academic reputation that Brunel offers.
Why did you choose to study at Brunel and why would you recommend Brunel to others?
While in high school a few friends decided to look for a university to go to together. Through online resources and recorded media of the University, we decided we wanted to study here. We appreciated that it was a campus university in London. Brunel gave me a unique and welcoming vibe. I also liked the town of Uxbridge.
What is your best memory of studying here?
My best memory has to be the friends I made and strong bonds that will last a lifetime. The university experience puts you in diverse situations where you have to deal with things while putting what you have learned into practice. I met some people as they were my flatmates, some were course mates and some I just met on campus and acquainted with over our shared experience at Brunel. I also found the lectures and seminars insightful and interactive and the learning experience was excellent.
If you could give one piece of advice to current Brunel students, what would that be?
This is one of the most important and defining experiences of your life. Make the best of it. Meet new people. Find new opportunities. Make use of the diversity of people and skills at Brunel to carve your path.
What would be your top tip or key advice for new graduates as they begin their career journey after leaving Brunel?
After you get your degree know that you are fully equipped to start your professional career. You have learnt the required skills and you should highlight them. But also know that your education does not end here. You will learn all your life. So, the next job you choose will be important. Make sure to choose something that will enhance your learning experience and social responsibility.
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