Joining us today is Jahanzeb Burana, Co-Founder and Vice Chairman of National Institute of Technology (NIT), Pakistan’s first American-affiliated university launching in 2025. With an MBA from Harvard and a decade of experience in public policy, investments, and education reform, Jahanzeb shares the vision behind building a globally competitive, student-centric university in Pakistan.
In this episode, we dive deep into how traditional universities are failing students, why NIT is offering an entirely new model, and how they’ve partnered with Arizona State University to deliver a modern, globally aligned curriculum. We explore course quality, the 3+1 international transfer program, and how Pakistan can solve its talent redundancy crisis amidst global AI disruption.
This episode answers:
Watch till the end to hear about NIT’s collaboration with Arizona State University, student career pathways, and the future of education in Pakistan.
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Jahanzeb's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jahanzebburana/
Joining us today is Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed, the current Chairman of the Higher Education Commission (HEC) Pakistan, with decades of experience leading Pakistan’s education reform. Dr. Mukhtar offers an unfiltered view on the gaps in our current system and what needs to change.
In this episode, we dive deep into why Pakistan’s degrees are becoming irrelevant, how outdated policies are killing innovation, and what steps HEC is taking to fix this broken system. We also explore future plans for AI, local internet infra, EdTech, and what a truly skilled youth could look like by 2050.
This episode answers:
Stay till the end to understand how Pakistan’s education system can evolve and what's holding it back.Don’t forget to subscribe and press the bell icon to catch more unfiltered conversations like this!
#thoughtbehindthings #muzamilhasan #hecpakistan #pakistanieducation #degrees
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Muzamil's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/muzamilhasan/
Muzamil's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/muzamilhasan/
Dr. Mukhtar's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-mukhtar-ahmed-046408247/
Joining us today is Jonathan Mark Tatti, the Co founder & CEO of Begin Watch, a new Pakistani OTT platform competing with global giants like Netflix and HBO. With over 20 years in the media industry, Jonathan played key roles at Zee TV, CNBC Pakistan, and SAMAA TV, launching some of the region’s most iconic content and channels.
In this episode, we dive into the real story behind Pakistan’s streaming challenges, how Begin Watch was started, the legal and content roadblocks, and how the team plans to build a platform that can rival global players. We also explore sports distribution, E-sports, content licensing, and what it really takes to build a media business in Pakistan today.
This episode answers:
Stay till the end to hear about Shark Tank Pakistan, Pakistan Idol, and Jonathan’s vision for Pakistan in 2050.
Socials:
TBT’s Official Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thoughtbehindthings/
TBT’s Official TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tbtbymuzamil
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Muzamil's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/muzamilhasan/
Muzamil's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/muzamilhasan/
Jonathan’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-mark-t/
Joining us today is Ivana Bajamic, Chief People & Corporate Reputation Officer at National Foods Limited (NFL). She has a global background across adidas, Chalhoub, and BRF, and brings over a decade of experience in talent strategy, organizational culture, and people transformation.
In this episode, we explore Pakistan’s talent pool, what’s working, where the gaps are, and how global standards can be adapted locally. Ivana shares her honest perspective on hiring in Pakistan, building accountability systems, the impact of AI on legacy companies, and why diversity and culture are no longer soft topics.
This episode answers:
Watch till the end for book recommendations from Ivana.
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Muzamil's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/muzamilhasan/
Muzamil's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/muzamilhasan/
Ivana’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivana-bajamic-2781579/
Joining us today is Marriyum Aurangzeb, Senior Minister in the Government of Punjab and a leader in PMLN, also an associate of Maryam Nawaz. She has a background in economics and environment from King’s College London, and has held major portfolios including Information, Planning & Development, Climate Change, and Education.
In this episode, we unpack the Punjab Budget 2025, what it really means for the average Pakistani, and how the government plans to fix key issues like female education, public transport, water distribution, digitization, and more.
This episode answers:
Watch till the end for a glimpse into what Pakistan might look like by 2050.
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Muzamil's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/muzamilhasan/
Muzamil's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/muzamilhasan/
Marriyum's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marriyum/
Marriyum's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marriyum_aurangzeb/
Joining us today is Abdul Rehman Najam, a value investor and the Founder & CEO of ARN Financial Advisors, where he helps individuals and businesses navigate financial markets. He has a background in Economics from the University of Warwick and deep expertise in wealth management.
In this episode, we dive into why most Pakistanis don’t invest smartly, the myths around getting rich, and what real financial literacy looks like. We also explore the mindset of long-term investing, how to ignore noise in the market, and why emotions are the biggest enemy of smart financial decisions.
This episode answers:
Watch till the end to understand more about Stock Market.
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Muzamil's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/muzamilhasan/
Muzamil's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/muzamilhasan/
Abdul Rehman’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AbdulRehman0292/
Abdul Rehman’s LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/abdulrehmannajam
Joining us today is Qumber Hussain, the Founder and CEO of Virtue Xolutions, a growing tech company he has built over the past 10 years. Under his leadership, Virtue Xolutions has expanded from a startup idea into a trusted business working with clients across industries.
In this episode, we explore why many Pakistanis think small, how language barriers hold people back, and what it really takes to build global businesses. We also talk about the power of networking, how to structure a business for global clients, and why AI will reshape marketing and communication in the years ahead.
This episode answers:
• Why do so many Pakistanis struggle to dream big?
• How does poor English block opportunities?
• What stops Pakistanis from building global businesses?
• What do international clients expect that most don’t deliver?
• How is AI already changing the marketing game?
Watch till the end to understand more about Pakistan’s Future.
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Qumber's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/qumber-hussain-991b457b/
Joining us today is Danish Khaliq, a key figure behind HUBCO’s entry into Pakistan’s EV ecosystem, and a former Canadian government policy expert.In this episode, we discuss the true economics of electric vehicles in Pakistan, HUBCO’s partnership with BYD, and why EVs are the future. We explore the broader impact on fuel imports, air quality, and government policy, while breaking down whether Pakistan can localize EVs or even become an exporter in the future.This episode answers:• Are EVs really 3x cheaper than fuel cars?• How much can Pakistan save in fuel import bills?• Is BYD the Tesla of Asia?• Can we build EV infrastructure fast enough?• Will EVs impact Pakistan’s AQI & urban health?Watch till the end to understand more about Pakistan’s EV future.Socials:TBT’s Official Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thoughtbehindthings Muzamil's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/muzamilhasan Muzamil's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/muzamilhasanDanish's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danish-khaliq
Join Kamyabi Network: https://kamyabinetwork.com
Joining us today is Ali Asghar Jamali, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Indus Motor Company Limited (IMC), the official assembler and distributor of Toyota vehicles in Pakistan.
Jamali breaks down Toyota’s localization, the flaws in Pakistan’s automotive policy & what’s really going on in Pakistan’s auto industry. This video answers the following questions:
Watch till the end to hear Jamali’s vision for Pakistan’s automotive future in 2050.
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Ali's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ali-a-jamali-4004ba69/
Join Kamyabi Network: https://kamyabinetwork.com/Guest Introduction: Joining us today is Shayan Shabir, the Founder and CEO of Strategic Pulse, a company helping businesses grow using AI, cybersecurity, and digital tools. Shayan has over 20 years of experience working across the UK, Australia, and South Asia.Before this, he was the CIO and CSO at Nova Systems, where he led a $35 million digital transformation and built a $7 million cybersecurity program. He has worked in defence, energy, and healthcare, and handled many real cyber attacks in his career.Shayan is certified in CISM, CRISC, and CDPSE, and is focused on helping businesses become faster, safer, and more future-ready.Do not forget to subscribe and press the bell icon to catch on to some amazing conversations coming your way!Socials:TBT’s Official Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thoughtbehindthings Muzamil's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/muzamilhasan Muzamil's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/muzamilhasan Shahyan's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shahyan-s-6994261a3/Podcast Links:Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3z1cE7F Google Podcast: https://bit.ly/2S84VEd Apple Podcast: https://apple.co/3cgIkf
Join Kamyabi Network: https://kamyabinetwork.com/
Guest Introduction:
Joining us today is Zeeshan Sikander, the Founder & CEO of Zenkoders, a cutting-edge software company he's been passionately building since 2019. With over 10 years of experience in Software Development and Project Management, Zeeshan has grown Zenkoders from a solo venture into a team of 80+ talented individuals. His background also includes experience as a Product Development Engineer at Habib Bank Limited, where he focused on designing and developing HBL's mobile apps. At Zenkoders, they specialize in turning ideas into tangible success, offering services ranging from Mobile Apps and Web Development to Cloud Services and E-commerce. Zeeshan's vision is to lead Zenkoders to the forefront of the global software landscape, and he's always open to innovative collaborations.
Do not forget to subscribe and press the bell icon to catch on to some amazing conversations coming your way!
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Zeeshan’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mzeeshansikander/
Podcast Links:
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Google Podcast: https://bit.ly/2S84VEd
Apple Podcast: https://apple.co/3cgIkf
Join Kamyabi Network: https://kamyabinetwork.com/
Guest Introduction:
Joining us today is Shajee Aijazi, a Toronto-based designer with over 10 years of experience crafting impactful digital products and design solutions. As the Founder of Design Garage and with previous experience as Sr. Lead UX Designer at Autodesk and Senior UX Designer at OPENLANE, Shajee focuses on creating user-centric designs that address both user and business needs. His expertise spans UX design, user research, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to deliver strategic UX solutions. Shajee also shares his knowledge as a UX Design Mentor at the Institute of Emerging Careers and holds a Bachelor's in Design from the Indus Valley School of Art and Architecture
Do not forget to subscribe and press the bell icon to catch on to some amazing conversations coming your way!
#thoughtbehindthings #muzamilhasan #ui #graphicdesign #shajeeaijazi
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Podcast Links:
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Google Podcast: https://bit.ly/2S84VEd
Apple Podcast: https://apple.co/3cgIkf
Join Kamyabi Network: https://kamyabinetwork.com/
Guest Introduction:
Joining us today is Yasir Rafiq, a results-oriented leader with over 20 years in BPO operations and talent strategy, currently a Director at ibex. Starting on the operations floor and rising to lead Talent Acquisition, Yasir brings a uniquely practical and people-centric approach to building scalable teams and systems. At ibex, he designs hiring systems and partners with operations to create high-performing teams. His expertise includes leading large-scale hiring, improving recruitment efficiency, and developing strategic partnerships within the business. Yasir's experience in building training frameworks and scaling service teams demonstrates his ability to connect people strategy with tangible results, always seeking smarter systems and stronger, more sustainable growth
Do not forget to subscribe and press the bell icon to catch on to some amazing conversations coming your way!
#thoughtbehindthings #muzamilhasan #ibex #yasirrafiq
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Yasir’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yaser-rafiq-42b6911b/
Podcast Links:
Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3z1cE7F
Google Podcast: https://bit.ly/2S84VEd
Apple Podcast: https://apple.co/3cgIkf
Guest Introduction:
Joining us today is Jahangir Munawar, the visionary Chief Executive Officer of RONiN, a bootstrapped Pakistani tech company. Since 2014, Jahanagir has led RONiN in its mission to deliver high-quality, internationally competitive products while maintaining its roots in Pakistan. Under his leadership, the company has achieved remarkable growth, now distributing 600,000 products monthly. Jahanagir's driving vision is to make a substantial contribution to both Pakistan’s economy and society. He is known for his unwavering principles, commitment to fulfilling promises, and a practical approach to decision-making.
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#thoughtbehindthings #muzamilhasan #ronin #jahangirmunawar
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Muzamil's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/muzamilhasan
Jahangir’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jahangir-munawar-4779b8237/
Podcast Links:
Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3z1cE7F
Google Podcast: https://bit.ly/2S84VEd
Apple Podcast: https://apple.co/3cgIkf
Guest Introduction:
Joining us today is Muhammad Zayn, a seasoned expert in data storage and security solutions. With a proven track record of helping over 300 businesses streamline their data workflows, Muhammad brings a wealth of practical experience to the table. Currently serving as Technical Sales Head at Al Madina Enterprises, he specializes in designing and implementing robust NAS/SAN solutions for businesses of all sizes, ranging from 5TB to petabyte-scale deployments. His expertise encompasses system design, data security and backups, active directory integration, remote file sharing, cloud syncing, and virtual machine applications, ensuring workflow consistency and data security.
Do not forget to subscribe and press the bell icon to catch on to some amazing conversations coming your way!
#thoughtbehindthings #muzamilhasan #muhammadzayn #datasecurity
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Muzamil's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/muzamilhasan
Zayn’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/muhammad-zayn-cissp-4032b91a1/
Al Madina Ent. Website: https://almadinapk.com/
Podcast Links:
Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3z1cE7F
Google Podcast: https://bit.ly/2S84VEd
Apple Podcast: https://apple.co/3cgIkf
Guest Introduction:
Joining us today is Yaruq Nadeem, a force of nature propelling Pakistan's innovation landscape. As the spearhead of Innovation and Partnerships at the National Science & Technology Park (NSTP), he's not just talking about change – he's delivering it. In just four years, Yaruq has facilitated a staggering PKR 20+ billion in revenue and PKR 12+ billion in startup funding, ignited the spark for over 300 startups, and created 6,000 jobs, catapulting Pakistan to 88th in the Global Innovation Index. But his impact doesn't stop there. He recently led the US Embassy's groundbreaking Rising Stars Startup Competition, championing inclusivity for minorities and women. From designing internationally renowned incubation programs under TechOne to launching the
'Innovation Inside' initiative, Yaruq is a catalyst for entrepreneurial empowerment. He's even shaped the entrepreneurship curriculum at NUST and guided over 50 student-led ventures
To get more information about studying in the UK: https://www.britishcouncil.pk/study-uk
Do not forget to subscribe and press the bell icon to catch on to some amazing conversations coming your way!
#thoughtbehindthings #muzamilhasan #yaruqnadeem #startups
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Muzamil's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/muzamilhasan
Yaruq’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yaruqnadeem/
NSTP Website: https://nstp.pk/
Podcast Links:
Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3z1cE7F
Google Podcast: https://bit.ly/2S84VEd
Apple Podcast: https://apple.co/3cgIkf
Guest Introduction:
Joining us today is Johan Vandermeulen, a distinguished leader who rose from Marketing Trainee to Chief Operating Officer at BAT. Starting in 1992, he progressed through key marketing and management roles across Belgium, Turkey, and Russia, notably leading the $1.72 billion acquisition of Tekel. His tenure as Global Brand Director revitalized the Kent brand, including the launch of Kent Nanotek. His 2014 appointment to the Management Board, and subsequent promotion to COO in 2023, underscores his strategic vision and commitment to BAT's A Better Tomorrow™ vision. Holding Masters and MBA degrees from the University of Leuven, Johan combines academic expertise with extensive practical experience.
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#thoughtbehindthings #muzamilhasan #johanvandermeulen
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Johan’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johan-vandermeulen-b69898150
Podcast Links:
Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3z1cE7F
Google Podcast: https://bit.ly/2S84VEd
Apple Podcast: https://apple.co/3cgIkf
Guest Introduction:
Joining us today is Sonia Irum, an Assistant Professor of English at the International Islamic University Islamabad and a nature-lover with a passion for all things artistic and intellectual. Dr. Irum completed her PhD at the Royal Holloway University of London, focusing on an ecocritical study of Uzma Aslam Khan's novels. Her research interests span a wide range of topics, including environmental humanities, consumerism, creative writing, and feminist literary studies. She is also the coordinator of the Critical Thinking Forum, where she has organized numerous events to foster dialogue between students and civil society. Dr. Irum's work has been published in national and international journals, and she frequently shares her insights on social and literary issues through blog articles and media appearances.
To get more information about studying in the UK: https://www.britishcouncil.pk/study-uk
Do not forget to subscribe and press the bell icon to catch on to some amazing conversations coming your way!
#thoughtbehindthings #muzamilhasan #soniairum
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Dr Sonia’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sonia-irum-1749a637
Podcast Links:
Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3z1cE7F
Google Podcast: https://bit.ly/2S84VEd
Apple Podcast: https://apple.co/3cgIkf
Guest Introduction:
Joining us today is Fahad Masood Lone, an accountant turned real estate developer, is building a unique resort in Nathia Gali, aiming to redefine tourism in Pakistan. He left his family business to create more productive and sustainable real estate options. In the podcast, we delve deep into his unconventional journey, the project's innovative solutions to infrastructure challenges, and why he believes it's a game-changer for Pakistan's tourism industry.
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#thoughtbehindthings #muzamilhasan #realestate #fahadmasud #serene
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Fahad’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fahadmlone
Fahad’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fahad-masud
Serene Resort’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sereneheightshotelsandresorts
TBT’s Official Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thoughtbehindthings
Muzamil's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/muzamilhasan
Muzamil's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/muzamilhasan
Podcast Links:
Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3z1cE7F
Google Podcast: https://bit.ly/2S84VEd
Apple Podcast: https://apple.co/3cgIkf
Guest Introduction:
Joining us today is Irfan Wahab Khan, a telecommunications leader with a career spanning North America, Europe, and Asia. He currently serves as the CEO of Telenor Pakistan and Chairman of Telenor Microfinance Bank. His extensive experience includes roles with Orange, T-Mobile, Ericsson, and Telcordia Technologies. A long-time contributor to Telenor, he was a founding member of Telenor Pakistan's startup team in 2004. Khan's leadership extends to board positions with Grameenphone Bangladesh, PTCL in Pakistan, and Telenor Myanmar.
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#thoughtbehindthings #muzamilhasan #irfanwahab #easypaisa
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Muzamil's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/muzamilhasan
Muzamil's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/muzamilhasan
Irfan Wahab’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/irfan-wahab-khan-11986915/
Podcast Links:
Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3z1cE7F
Google Podcast: https://bit.ly/2S84VEd
Apple Podcast: https://apple.co/3cgIkf
