East Meets West: Pakistani Professional Journeys

Hosted by Syed Azam Afzal

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Latest episode

Jan 2026

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About the show

§ 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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51 recent

January 11, 2026Episode 142 min

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 ‌Intro00:52 Personal Ties to Pakistan02:09 Describing Pakistan to the World03:59 Motivation to Study Abroad06:15 Challenges and Adjustments Abroad08:37 Career Growth and Opportunities11:23 Breaking into Big Tech14:29 What is a Senior Strategist?18:42 The Importance of Networking19:41 Career Coaching and Mentorship Services22:58 Essential Skills for Working Abroad25:03 Mindset and Preparation for Success27:58 Common Mistakes in Job Applications32:00 Advice to My Younger Self37:26 AI Benefits38:12 Defining Success in Life and Career42:05 Conclusion

August 11, 2025Episode 1622 min

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 Farooq01:13 Early Career and Education in Karachi02:12 Navigating Post-Secondary Education02:51 Entering the Professional World03:22 Experience in Saudi Arabia04:08 Transition to Canada04:59 Advice for Job Seekers06:22 Importance of Networking07:08 Adapting to Canadian Work Culture07:25 Pursuing CPA Certification08:08 Leadership Differences: Middle East vs. Canada10:28 Maintaining Interest in Finance11:53 Role of a Financial Controller13:01 Storytelling in Finance15:08 Advice for New Immigrants17:12 Key Skills and Habits for Success19:04 Advice for Recent Graduates21:27 Defining Success

July 28, 2025Episode 1542 min

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 Intro02:31 Early Life in Pakistan03:44 Academic Journey at IBA Karachi05:56 Professional Beginnings at EY08:04 Mentorship and Learning10:53 Transition to the US12:13 Post-9/11 Reflections on Islam14:16 Career Growth at PwC16:55 Mapping Career At A Young Age18:41 Founding AMCOB19:25 Career Planning and Entrepreneurship21:36 The Importance of Execution Over Strategy22:14 Becoming a Predictive Index Certified Partner22:45 Insights from Working with Fortune 500 Companies23:10 The Impact of George Floyd's Murder23:49 Discovering Systemic Inequality27:14 Encouraging Muslim Entrepreneurship28:27 Advice for Young Entrepreneurs31:25 Building a Strong Relationship with Allah33:32 Groups To Join38:10 Defining Success in Life and Business

July 12, 2025Episode 1427 min

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 Clip00:57 Guest Introduction: Adeel Saya01:27 Early Life in Pakistan02:45 Education at LUMS03:59 Moving Abroad for Higher Studies05:19 Settling in the UK06:53 Building a Support System08:27 Professional Journey: PWC, eBay, and Google11:05 Career Planning and Opportunities14:18 Networking: The Key to Success16:53 Mentoring at Stanford Seed18:49 Advice to Younger Self20:50 Staying Updated with Technology25:38 Defining Success: A Personal Perspective

June 29, 2025Episode 1335 min

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 Intro01:28 Early Life and Education in Pakistan02:04 Life at LUMS03:15 Memorable Experiences at LUMS05:19 Key Connections and Mentorship in Pakistan06:41 Support from Family and Overcoming Challenges07:56 Importance of Financial Literacy for Women10:08 Journey to Canada for Higher Education11:35 Securing the First Job in Canada12:54 Experience at RBC14:13 Transition to S&P Global Ratings15:58 Reaching Out To Network17:23 S&P Role19:06 Role and Responsibilities at S&P22:16 Joining Fitch Ratings24:47 Balancing Work and Personal Life26:54 Key Habits Developed28:32 Accelerate Your Career31:06 Advice for Newcomers to the West33:28 Defining Success35:10 Final Thoughts and Reflections

June 15, 2025Episode 1231 min

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 ‌Intro01:16 Guest Introduction: Raza Toor02:00 Raza's Early Life and Education in Pakistan02:32 Professional Journey in Pakistan03:18 Teaching Experience in Pakistan03:39 Choosing Chartered Accountancy04:49 Decision to Move to Canada05:29 Challenges of Moving to Canada08:43 Starting a Firm in Canada10:10 Overcoming Fear and Mistakes10:59 Importance of Referrals in Accounting Firm and Real Estate12:40 Overcoming Fear Of Failure14:54 Key Advice To Starting Your Own Firm18:13 Experience in the Real Estate Industry19:06 Overcoming Losing Client Leads Or Deals20:55 Balancing Multiple Roles22:25 Chairman Role at ICAP24:42 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs26:59 Advice To Accelerate Career28:59 Defining Success

June 1, 2025Episode 117 min

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 Intro00:36 Strategy #1: Start. Build. Lead. 02:01 Strategy #2: Connecting With Alumni03:31 Strategy #3: Reflect. Practice. Improve04:32 Strategy #4: Think Smaller Too05:12 Strategy #5: Professors = Allies05:54 Strategy #6: Adjust When Needed06:28 Conclusion

May 18, 2025Episode 1032 min

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 Intro01:42 Early Life and Education in Pakistan02:41 Transition to Life in Canada04:29 Challenges Faced as an Immigrant in Canada06:45 Career Path in HR09:49 Founding Revo Hub14:41 Balancing Entrepreneurship and Life16:44 Maintain Positive Attitude18:30 Director at YWCA20:43 Time Management Strategies23:01 Setting and Achieving Goals25:13 Advice for Newcomers to Canada27:36 Breaking Into HR sector30:44 Defining Success

May 4, 2025Episode 922 min

S3 EP 9 | Director of Finance | ft. Muhammad Zeeshan Sheikh

In this episode of the East Meets West Pakistani Professional Journeys Podcast, we sit down with Muhammad Zeeshan Sheikh, Director of Finance at Northland Power. Muhammad shares his extensive journey from studying in Lahore to working in Dubai and finally settling in Canada. He discusses the importance of curiosity, mentorship, and networking in his career progression, as well as how he transitioned from computer science to accounting and finance. Tune in to hear his insights on making bold career moves, the value of continuous learning, and his advice for aspiring finance professionals.00:00 Introduction to the Podcast01:14 Early Life and Education in Pakistan02:07 Memories in Pakistan03:08 Career Shift: From Computer Science to Accounting05:39 Breaking into the Industry in the Gulf + Canada08:07 Moving to Canada: Challenges and Opportunities08:50 Specializing in External Reporting12:40 Role at Northland Power15:41 Balancing Work, Education, and Family17:14 Advice for Newcomers to Canada18:34 Key Habits To Success19:29 Defining Success and Final Thoughts

April 20, 2025Episode 828 min

S3 EP 8 | CSE Full Stack Developer At Plotly | ft. Shahzeb Afroze

Welcome to the East Meets West Pakistani Professional Journeys Podcast! In this episode, we chat with Shahzeb Afroze, a BBA graduate from the Schulich School of Business who's worked at Deloitte and Plotly as a full stack developer. Shahzeb shares insights from his life in Pakistan, his academic journey, and his professional experiences in Canada. He discusses the challenges of transitioning to a new country, the importance of networking, and his unorthodox career path from business to tech. Tune in to hear his valuable advice for young professionals navigating the job market and striving for success.00:00 Intro00:19 Guest Introduction: Shahzeb Afroze00:33 Experience in Pakistan01:38 Transition to Canada02:36 University Life and Challenges04:08 Experience at Schulich06:40 Shift From BBA to CS09:51 Finding Internships12:23 Landing a Job at Deloitte14:17 Consulting at Deloitte: Diverse Projects and Learning15:39 Transition to Plotly: Job Search and Interviews16:31 Life at Plotly: Company Culture and Role17:24 Choosing Full Stack Development18:20 Explaining the Full Stack Role20:19 Advice to My Younger Self23:14 Navigating the Current Job Market26:34 Defining Success: Financial Freedom and Personal Fulfillment