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Explore every episode of the podcast East Meets West: Pakistani Professional Journeys

Dive into the complete episode list for East Meets West: Pakistani Professional Journeys. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.

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TitlePub. DateDuration
S2 EP 17 | Principal Architect At Slalom Build | Ft. Wasiq Shaikh08 Sep 202400:28:22

Join us in this episode of the East Meets West Pakistani Professional Journeys Podcast as we explore the life and career of Wasiq Shaikh. Born and raised in Canada with deep connections to Pakistan, Wasiq shares his experiences from learning Urdu, navigating cultural differences, and his professional journey in computer science, starting at Ryerson and leading up to his role as a Principal Architect at Slalom Build. Gain insights on balancing cultural identity, overcoming workplace challenges, and invaluable advice for aspiring tech professionals. Don't miss this compelling narrative of blending East and West in the tech industry.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
00:16 Guest Introduction: Wasiq Shaikh
00:37 Connection to Pakistan
01:03 Memories of Visiting Pakistan
03:39 Learning Urdu and Cultural Experiences
04:52 Family's Journey to Canada
06:01 Growing Up in Canada
07:42 Early Interest in Technology + Computer Science
08:50 University Experience in Computer Science
11:33 First Corporate Job - NextJ and Career Progression
15:45 Navigating the Vast Field of Computer Science
15:53 Finding Your Passion Beyond Technology
16:43 Balancing Work and Preventing Burnout
18:08 Setting Boundaries and Time Management
20:26 The Importance of Communication Skills
21:51 Adapting to Different Social Norms
23:02 Building a Strong Professional Network
25:18 Defining Success in Personal and Professional Life
26:46 Maintaining Cultural Ties While Living Abroad

Celebrating 10,000 Subscribers: Thanks For The Support!25 Aug 202400:01:31

In this episode of the East Meets West Pakistani Professional Journeys podcast, we celebrate reaching 10,000 subscribers on the YouTube channel! Join us as we reflect on the incredible journey over the past year, sharing experiences and stories of professional struggles and triumphs. Thank you to everyone who has supported us, subscribed, and followed our bi-weekly releases. This milestone wouldn't have been possible without you!

00:00 Intro
00:04 Celebrating 10,000 Subscribers
00:39 The Journey So Far
00:53 Gratitude to Supporters and Guests
01:17 Future Plans and Commitment
01:25 Final Thanks

S2 EP 16 | Senior Project Manager at Confiz | Ft. Hassam Nadeem11 Aug 202400:25:24

Navigating Professional Journeys: Hassam Nadeem's Path from Pakistan to Canada

Welcome to the East Meets West Pakistani Professional Journeys Podcast! In this episode, we sit down with Hassam Nadeem, a seasoned technology consultant with over 13 years of experience. Hassam talks about his educational journey, starting from IIU in Islamabad, to Linkoping University in Sweden, and his varied roles from IT business analyst to senior project manager. He shares his experiences working in Pakistan, the Middle East, and ultimately his move to Canada through the express entry program. Hassam provides valuable insights on overcoming challenges, the importance of self-belief, the cultural nuances in the professional world, and maintaining relationships. Tune in to learn about his strategic approach to job hunting, the significance of empathy in the workplace, and the balance between consulting work and full-time commitments. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to navigate their career path successfully from one continent to another.

0:00 Introduction
00:19 Hassam Nadeem's Educational Background
01:36 Early Career in Pakistan and Middle East
03:10 Challenges and Successes in Dubai
03:43 Decision to Move to Canada
04:43 Preparing for the Canadian Job Market
07:52 Landing the First Job in Canada
08:27 First Job Experience and Initial Struggles
09:07 Setting Up HNA Consulting
10:40 Transition to Fujitsu and Beyond
11:25 The Importance of Empathy in the Workplace
11:53 Reconnecting with an Old Boss
13:22 Balancing Multiple Roles
13:30 Navigating Job Transitions
14:21 Managing Time Effectively
15:17 Prioritizing Work and Avoiding Distractions
16:53 Advice for Newcomers to Canada
18:47 Cultural Adaptation and Networking
23:46 Defining Success and Final Thoughts

S2 EP 15 | HR director at confidential | Ft. Ahsan Qureshi28 Jul 202400:28:30

In this episode of the East Meets West Pakistani Professional Journeys Podcast, Ahsan Qureshi shares his inspiring career path from Karachi to becoming an HR director in Canada. Ahsan discusses the importance of focusing on strengths, staying positive, and leveraging opportunities in both personal and professional life. He also elaborates on his extensive educational background and diverse work experiences in global companies such as HSBC, GE, and Deloitte. Tune in to hear his valuable insights and advice for aspiring HR professionals and newcomers to Canada.

0:00 Introduction to the Podcast
01:16 Ahsan Qureshi's Early Life in Pakistan
02:05 Memories of Karachi
02:53 The Decision to Move to Canada
03:36 Unexpected Immigration Journey
05:02 First Impressions and Challenges in Canada
06:41 Adapting to a New Environment
08:23 Landing the First Job in Canada
12:33 Continuous Learning and Career Growth
13:43 Impact of GE on Ahsan's Career
15:19 Understanding HR Beyond Hiring
15:31 Jack Welch's Perspective on Team Focus
16:06 Developing Human Capital for Success
16:39 Outsourcing Recruitment and Payroll
17:09 The Wing to Wing Approach in GE
19:00 Key Traits for Climbing the Corporate Ladder
19:56 Adapting to Technological Changes
20:24 Advice for Breaking into HR
21:23 Balancing Work and Personal Life

S2 EP 14 | Product Manager (Sennheiser) At Sonova Group | Hassan Javed14 Jul 202400:33:53


In this episode of the East Meets West Pakistani Professional Journeys Podcast, Hassan Javed shares his inspiring career story. He emphasizes the importance of helping others, continuous learning, and networking. Hassan discusses his experience working with major brands like Samsung, Dawlance, and Sonova, and his transition from Pakistan to Canada. He offers valuable advice on job hunting, resume customization, and the significance of maintaining one's cultural traits. Whether you're a new immigrant or a professional looking for career growth strategies, Hassan's journey offers valuable insights and inspiration.

0:00 Introduction
00:34 Hassan Javed's Educational Background
01:21 First Job Experience in Pakistan
02:11 Career Growth and Key Roles in Pakistan
04:24 Challenges and Learnings During MBA
05:09 Understanding PASS and Its Impact
05:57 Motivation and Mentorship
07:47 Long-term Career Goals and Vision
09:32 Journey to Canada and Initial Struggles
10:52 Networking and Job Search Strategies
19:35 Interview Techniques and Preparation
23:17 Role as Corporate Brand Manager at Samsung
24:29 Transition to Product Manager at Sonova
25:47 Advice to Younger Self and Key Habits
31:15 Defining Success and Final Thoughts

S2 EP13 | Donor Engagement Officer at Food Banks Mississauga | Ft. Alizeh Jaffrey Zaidi30 Jun 202400:29:36

Join us in this episode of the East Meets West Pakistani Professional Journeys Podcast as we dive into the inspiring career of Alizeh Jaffrey Zaidi. Having completed her BBA from Schulich and her Masters in Philanthropy and Non-Profit Leadership from Carleton University, Alizeh shares her experiences working with various organizations including the Mississauga Food Bank and the University of Guelph. Reflecting on her Pakistani roots and Canadian upbringing, Alizeh discusses the seamless integration of her dual cultures, her passion for non-profit work, and her journey in the world of philanthropy. Tune in for an insightful conversation on professional and personal success, finding motivation in your work, and the importance of giving back to the community. Released bi-weekly every Sunday at 5pm, you can catch our episodes on YouTube, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and Apple iTunes.

00:00 Introduction to Professional Success
00:22 Podcast Introduction and Guest Background
01:04 Cultural Ties to Pakistan
02:15 Navigating Canadian Culture
03:50 Educational Journey and Career Choices
09:10 Entering the Nonprofit Sector
10:50 Building a Career in Nonprofit
12:58 Roles and Experiences in Nonprofit
15:34 Personal Reflections and Advice
23:09 Balancing Work and Personal Life
25:49 Maintaining Cultural Identity
28:02 Defining Success

S2 EP12 | Full Stack Developer at Emoot | ft. Alishba Ali16 Jun 202400:21:59

In this episode of the East Meets West Pakistani Professional Journeys Podcast, we interview Alishba, a full stack software developer, about her move from Pakistan to Canada. She shares her educational background, the challenges of adapting to a new country during COVID-19, and the difficulties in securing a job in her field. Alishba emphasizes the importance of doing your own research, building a professional portfolio, and leveraging mentorship. She also discusses how taking baby steps and getting out of her comfort zone has led to her success. Tune in for valuable insights and advice for new immigrants and tech professionals.

0:00 Intro
00:57 Pakistan Experience
01:52 Canadian Experience During COVID
05:15 Process of Breaking Into Software Industry Space
08:21 Steps Taken Before Landing In Canada
12:45 Overcoming Rejection in The Job Search in Software Industry
14:45 What Is A Full Stack Software Developer?
15:54 Programming Languages
17:07 Advice For Pakistanis Moving To Canada
19:18 Key Habits Developed
20:38 Defining Success

S2 EP11 | LinkedIn Digital Solopreneur | Ft. Hammad Siddiqui02 Jun 202400:28:25

In this episode of the East Meets West Pakistani Professional Journeys Podcast, Hammad Siddiqui shares his professional experiences and offers valuable insights into personal branding and leveraging LinkedIn for career success. He discusses the importance of staying active in the field, adapting to new environments, and consistently investing in self-improvement. With a focus on helping professionals, especially immigrants, navigate their careers in a new country, Hammad emphasizes the significance of building relationships, creating strategic content, and maintaining cultural traits. Tune in to hear Hammad’s journey from Pakistan to Canada, his challenges, and his advice for making the most of LinkedIn and personal branding.

0:00 Intro
01:36 Pakistan Experience
03:47 Challenges Faced Moving To Canada
04:37 Introduction To Entrepreneurship
06:16 Continuing Business In The Long-Run
08:43 Strategies to Use LinkedIn Effectively
13:02 LinkedIn Useful Networking Tool
15:40 Key Advice For Pakistani Professionals
20:26 Defining Success

S2 EP10 | Sales Enablement At BlackBerry | Ft. Suwaid Khan19 May 202400:31:54

This podcast episode, part of the East Meets West Pakistani Professional Journeys series, features Suwaid Khan, a professional with a rich background in marketing management and currently completing his MBA. Suwaid shares his journey from Pakistan to Canada, detailing the importance of networking prior to moving, his experiences working in various tech startups and large companies like BlackBerry, and strategies for landing roles in Canada. He emphasizes the significance of adapting to Canadian work culture, proactive job searching through startup portals, and maintaining personal connections. Additionally, Suwaid conveys valuable advice for immigrants and discusses the balance between professional achievements and personal fulfillment.

0:00 Intro
01:47 Pakistan Experience
03:58 What is a Product Manager?
12:13 Experience Immigrating To Canada
13:25 Schulich MBA Experience
15:52 Getting Role in Canada
19:05 Applying To Start-Ups in Canada
25:15 Advice for Immigrants
28:19 Defining Success
29:44 Pakistan Culture

S2 EP9 | Associate Partner at McKinsey | Ft. Aun Ansari05 May 202400:37:16

This episode of the East Meets West Pakistani Professional Journeys Podcast features Aun Ansari, an experienced management consultant with a rich professional background across North America, the Middle East, and Pakistan. Having worked with prestigious companies like Unilever, PepsiCo, and McKinsey, Aun shares insights into his upbringing in Karachi, educational journey at LUMS, and the challenges and triumphs of starting a career in Pakistan and transitioning to Canada. He elaborates on the significance of network building, mentorship, and cultural identity maintenance in professional growth and personal life. Aun discusses strategies for job searching in Canada, emphasizing the importance of showcasing one's skills and experiences confidently. He also touches on maintaining a work-life balance, the value of cultural traditions, and the path to success in the consulting world. This conversation offers valuable advice for professionals considering a move to the West and insights into navigating cultural identities while pursuing career goals.

0:00 Introduction
01:20 PAKISTAN EXPERIENCE
02:41 Business Experience In Pakistan
04:37 Key Connections Shaped To Become A Professional
05:55 Process Of Getting A Mentor
08:18 Breaking Into Your Industry 
11:08 Fear Of Rejection In Job Hunt
12:58 Canada Introduction
16:46 Planning Living In Canada
19:15 Advice For Pakistanis Moving To The West
22:44 Career Growth At McKinsey - Associate to Associate Partner
25:27 Consultancy Explained
28:39 Breaking Into Consulting industry
31:23 Defining Success
33:36 Pakistani Culture Traits Maintained in The West

S2 EP8 | Revenue Accounting Manager At Uber | Ft. Alamgir Khandwala21 Apr 202400:24:55

This episode of the East Meets West Pakistani Professional Journeys podcast features Alamgir Khandwala, a York University graduate who worked his way up to a revenue accounting manager at Uber, following a tenure at Deloitte as a senior accountant. Alamgir shares his experiences growing up between the U.S. and Canada, his educational journey, the importance of embracing failure, taking risks, and the continuous pursuit of growth and learning. Outside of his professional life, Alamgir actively contributes to empowering youth in underprivileged communities and rebranding disabilities through achievements. His story is one of perseverance, embracing diverse opportunities, and balancing professional ambition with community service and personal growth.

0:00 Intro
01:29 Pakistani Experience - Raised In The West
04:46 York University Experience
05:57 Jobs During University
07:26 The Importance of Perseverance
10:27 Involved In The Community 
13:10 Starting New Activities
14:27 Shifting Back To The US
15:36 Experience At Uber
16:37 Maintaining Network
19:49 Advice To University Students
21:04 Maintaining Cultural Values
23:22 Defining Success

S2 EP7 | Successful Traits of Pakistani Professionals In The West | Ft. Syed Azam Afzal, CPA07 Apr 202400:02:52

This episode of the East Meets West Pakistani Professional Journeys Podcast explores common themes and traits that contribute to the success of Pakistani professionals living in the West. Key themes discussed include the importance of determination, the pivotal role of family and community support, the significance of ongoing learning and self-improvement, and redefining success to include personal satisfaction and community impact beyond professional achievements. The host shares insights from interviews with successful professionals and personal observations, aiming to help listeners understand what it takes to thrive in a new environment.

00:00 Introduction to East Meets West Pakistani Professional Journeys Podcast
00:20 Key Traits of Successful Pakistani Professionals in the West
00:36 Theme 1: Determination and Proactivity
01:34 Theme 2: Family Values and Support
01:57 Theme 3: Continuous Learning and Self-Improvement
02:13 Theme 4: Defining Success Beyond Career
02:36 Conclusion and Invitation for Feedback

S2 EP6 | CTO At Armis | Ft. Mohammad Waqas24 Mar 202401:06:01

In this episode of the East Meets West Pakistan Professional Journeys podcast, we feature Mohammad Waqas, a seasoned information security professional with a rich background in IT and cybersecurity. Born in Karachi and raised in New York before moving to Canada, Waqas shares his unique journey from his initial aspirations in healthcare to becoming the CTO at Armis. Highlighting the importance of embracing one's roots and the value of family history, Waqas also discusses the significance of resilience, personal growth, and the power of mentorship in shaping successful careers. Additionally, he offers insightful advice for those aiming to break into the cybersecurity field, emphasizing the broad opportunities available and the importance of starting somewhere to foster continuous learning and development.

0:00 Intro
01:30 Experience in Pakistan
05:57 Transition To Canada
08:43 Struggle of Shifting University Field
13:44 When to Know The Best Time To Pivot From University Degree
18:13 Appropriate Planning For Your Career
19:54 Interest in Information Tech
22:41 Microsoft Career Mapping
24:13 Importance of Soft Skills
27:59 Importance Of Figuring Solution Yourself
33:23 experience at Trilium health partners
38:49 Security Analyst Role at Trillium
45:15 Breaking Into Cybersecurity
49:33 Experience at Armis
56:01 How do you Define success
01:00:54 Culture Roots to Maintain

S2 E5 | Marketing Manager At Embark | Ft. Ali Malik10 Mar 202400:29:43

In this episode of the East Meets West Pakistani Professional Journeys Podcast, welcomes Ali Malik, a seasoned marketing professional with a rich background spanning multinational companies and various industries. Ali shares insights into the evolution of marketing as a data-driven field, emphasizing the importance of staying updated with trends and certifications, especially in technology-centric companies. He recounts his academic journey from engineering to MBA, his professional evolution, and the transition from Pakistan to Canada, highlighting the challenges and opportunities encountered along the way. Ali discusses the diverse facets of marketing management, the impact of digitalization and data analysis on marketing strategies, and the significance of networking and certifications in career advancement. The conversation also touches on maintaining cultural roots and the value of hard work in professional development, offering listeners a comprehensive view of adapting and thriving in the dynamic field of marketing across different cultural and professional landscapes.

0:00 Introduction
01:29 Pakistan Experience
06:16 Growing And Success - Supportive Family
07:21 Experience Moving To Canada
09:05 Interview Process - Articulating Pakistani Experience
10:45 Interest In Marketing
12:16 Getting the FIrst Role in Canada
14:04 What does A Marketing Manager Do?
15:55 Different Marketing Roles
19:33 Changes In Marketing Industry
22:28 Experience at Embark
23:39 Key Habits Developed For Success
25:28 Breaking Into Marketing Industry
27:13 How Do you Define Success?
27:43 Maintaining Culture Roots

S2 EP 4 | Technology Manager at EY | Fareena Aslam25 Feb 202400:27:54

 The episode features an interview with Fareena Aslam, an accomplished technology consultant at Ernst & Young (EY), and a former software engineer at TELUS. She shares her personal and professional journey from studying software engineering in Dubai, transitioning to consultancy with Telus and EY in Canada, and her philosophies related to success and work-life balance. Aslam also provides insightful advice for those interested in breaking into the consulting industry, discussing the importance of communication, collaboration, self-awareness, and continuous learning in achieving professional success.

0:00 Introduction
02:54 Interest in software engineering
04:19 Experience in University
06:16 Jobs/Volunteering During University
07:30 Landing First Full Time Role - Telus
10:45 Stand Out In Large Organization
14:21 Experience at EY
16:23 Technology Consulting at EY Explained
19:03 Effectively Balance Work And Rest In consulting
23:05 Groups In Consulting
26:02 Defining Success

S2 E3 | Machine Learning at GM | Ft. Shahzeb Naveed11 Feb 202400:29:06

In this episode of the East Meets West Pakistani Professional Journeys Podcast, we have a candid conversation with Shahzeb Naveed. A graduate of NUST and the University of Waterloo, Shahzeb shares his experiences from working in various industries, such as Unilever, RBC, Telus, and GM, focusing particularly on his work in data science and machine learning. He provides valuable insights and advice for those aspiring to enter or grow within this field, discussing his personal growth, key habits and mindset needed for success, networking and job hunting strategies, and even on-the-job experiences. This episode is beneficial for anyone interested in pursuing a career in data science or machine learning, and for individuals looking for inspiration from successful professionals.

0:00 Intro
01:01 Pakistan Experience
02:19 Exploring Pakistan
03:24 Traveling From Pakistan To Canada
06:53 Studies: Canada vs Pakistan
09:14 Experience at RBC
10:59 Overcoming Rejection In The Job Search
15:43 Telus Experience
17:34 What is Machine Learning
18:34 Experience in GM - Machine Learning
20:30 Building Networks
22:31 Breaking Into Machine Learning
24:42 Key Habits that Allowed for Success
25:50 Certification For Data Science
27:13 Defining Success

S2 E2 | Director At Align Associates | Ft. Mahham Saeed28 Jan 202400:30:22

In this episode of the East Meets West Pakistani Professional Journeys Podcast, we welcome Mahham Saeed, a CPA and Director at Align Associates with a diverse experience in data governance, process improvement, product management and more. Previously based in Pakistan, Mahham Saeed shares her challenges and experiences in moving to Canada for her university education, working in different roles, and climbing up the professional ladder. She offers insightful tips for career progression, network building, and maintaining work ethic, emphasizing the importance of determination and kindness in achieving success.


0:00 Introduction
01:03 Experience in Canada
03:29 Interest In Business
04:49 Transition in Canada From Pakistan - University
05:57 Not Drifting Away - University Experience
07:42 Getting First Role in Canada
10:48 Experience - RioCan + TD
12:28 Importance of Networking - Breaking Into Big 4
15:49 Introduction to Risk Assurance
16:35 Never Giving Up in The Job Hunt
19:23 What is Risk Assurance?
21:03 Venture into Entrepreneurship
23:25 Succeeding Starting Own Consulting Practice
26:23 Best Method to Progress In Their Careers
29:02 Defining Success

S2 EP1 | Program Director Pediatric Residency Program | Ft. Dr. Ayesha Mirza14 Jan 202400:34:07

Dr. Ayesha shares her dynamic journey from earning her medical degree in Pakistan during a time of widespread political unrest, to becoming an esteemed professional in the U.S. She provides insights about her time in med school, the nature of pediatric care and how she has reached her career goals despite challenging environments. Exploring her commitment to the rigours of medical education, the vital role of steadfast determination, and navigating professional challenges, Dr. Ayesha offers actionable advice to aspiring medical professionals. The podcast emphasizes believing in oneself and the limitless potential individuals can unlock when they strive for their ambitions.

Timestamp
0:00 Intro
00:48 Challenges Faced In Pakistan Medical Profession
03:08 Completing Medical Journey - Sticking Till The End
05:36 Role Models
06:33 Process of Going To The US from Pakistan
09:26 What is Pediatrics?
11:47 Medical Background Moving To The West
16:00 Failing to Get Into Residency In the First Attempt - What A person Can Do?
18:58 Process Of Becoming A Doctor
22:49 Overcoming Struggles In The Medical Profession
26:56 Experience Most Proud Of
29:07 Future of medical Profession
30:35 Advice For Aspiring Doctors
32:10 Defining Success

Season 1 Wrap Up & Season 2 Announcement24 Dec 202300:02:26

Azam, the host of East Meets West Pakistani professional journeys podcast, thanks the viewers and guests for their participation and support during the first season. He acknowledges the valuable feedback received and appreciates the effort made by guests who shared their experiences. Azam announces the upcoming Season 2, set to release biweekly starting on January 14th at 5pm. He informs viewers of the alternate listening platforms available besides YouTube, which include Spotify, Google Podcasts, and Apple iTunes. He wishes viewers happy holidays, success in their future endeavors, and looks forward to reuniting in the next season.

00:00 Introduction and Thanks to Viewers
00:48 Appreciation for Guest Speakers
01:08 Importance of Sharing Success Stories
01:24 Announcement of Season 2
01:36 Availability on Other Platforms
02:04 Closing Remarks and Holiday Wishes

S1 EP 10 | Supply Chain Leader | Ft. Umair Ayyub10 Dec 202300:53:39

In this episode we delve deeper into the advice from Umair Ayyub, a seasoned supply chain leader with over a decade of experience in procurement and distribution. Umair shares his insights about differences in work culture between Canada and Pakistan, the importance of work-life balance and the value of personal interests in the Canadian job market. He also dispels myths about job hunting in Canada, such as the need for referrals and local experience, advising listeners to focus on target jobs and build strong resumes instead. Umair elaborates on networking strategies, recommending LinkedIn as a powerful networking tool for professionals planning to migrate to Canada. The discussion wraps up highlighting the power of continuous learning and helping others for personal and professional fulfillment.

Timestamps
0:00 EP 10 | Supply Chain Leader  | Ft. Umair Ayyub
01:00 Introduction
01:52 Work Environment: Canada vs Pakistan
03:36 5 Myths In The Job Market - Immigrants Moving To Canada
04:38 1st Myth - Get Advice From The Right People
06:10 2nd Myth - Single Page Resume
06:56 3rd Myth - Change Resume for Each Job
09:40 4th Myth - Referrals Required
10:56 5th Myth - Require Canadian Experience
13:08 Important Reference Point - Pakistani Companies
14:01 Being Successful In The West In The First 2/3 Months
16:51 Importance of Landing at The Right Time
19:26 Recruitment Firms In Canada
21:03 Finding It Impossible To Land a Role
25:21 Nailing Fit In Interviews As An Immigrant In The West
29:35 Useful Groups Joined As A Professional
32:51 Reaching Out In A professional Manner
35:08 Specific Recruitment Firms
36:19 Effective Networking
40:34 Best Platform For Networking
42:53 Maintain Networks Long-Term
45:58 Getting Over Exhaustion And Rejection In The Recruitment Process
49:06 Defining Success

S1 E9 | Senior Manager at PwC | ft. Wali Rizvi26 Nov 202300:19:45

We delve into the professional journey of Waleed Rizvi, a CPA who currently serves as a Deal Senior Manager at PwC. The conversation covers his diverse experiences spanning from Pakistan to the UAE then to the US, and his view on the significance of having a proper education system. He provides insightful advice on choosing the right school and discusses the lucrative opportunities in the field of accounting. Waleed underscores how internships played crucial roles in his career growth and shares his personal experiences with KPMG in AI-based audit tools. Notably, he outlines the nuances of the Deals business at PwC, the skills needed to achieve success, and striking the work-life balance.

0:00 Introduction
01:46 Transition to the US
05:07 Tips on Finding Internships
06:44 Getting CPA in Canada vs US
08:07 Avoid these Mistakes when Acquiring CPA
09:13 Advice Getting An Accounting Full Time Role
12:36 Deals at KPMG
13:53 Deals Role at KPMG
16:14 Breaking Into Deals Industry
17:21 Habits developed to be successful
18:20 Work Life Balance

S1 E8 | Sr. Analyst, Estimating and Pricing | ft. Sarim Tirmizi12 Nov 202300:48:18

In this inspiring episode of the East Meets West Pakistani Professional Journeys podcast, Sarim, who has completed a BBA in Finance at University of Houston, MBA in International Economic Development from the University of Houston and currently enrolled in a Masters of science in Cybersecurity, Technology and Policy at University of Texas at Dallas is a seasoned professional with significant experience in the investment services sector, dives into his journey beginning from Pakistan. He describes his upbringing in Karachi and the importance of education in his life, instilled by his parents and grandparents. Sarim discusses his transition to the U.S. and details his experience with Ameriprise Financial Services and TD Bank before moving into the aerospace and defense industry. Through his personal and professional endeavors, Sarim highlights the importance of pushing one's comfort zone, learning from different industries, and maintaining a balanced perspective between work and family life. He closes by giving his own definition of success both personally and professionally.

VIDEO CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction
01:08 Pakistan Experience and immigrating to the US
07:05 Transition From Pakistan to US
09:16 Integration into US from Pakistan
12:21 Breaking out of Your Comfort Zone in University
15:49 Effective Networking - Standing Out
17:44 Career Journey
25:03 Getting out of Comfort Zone - New opportunities
28:31 Defense Industry
37:58 Pricing - Defense Industry Role
41:00 Define Success

S1 E7 | Vice President At First Bank | ft. Ajaz Siddiqi29 Oct 202300:25:51

Welcome to the East meets West Pakistani professional journeys podcast. Today, we have Ajaz Siddiqui, who graduated from George Mason University and has spent over 30 years in the banking sector. He started as a bank teller at SunTrust Bank and later became a VP/regional manager in multiple banks. Join us as we learn more about his experience.

Timestamps
00:00:34 Journey From Pakistan to the US
00:04:08 Banking Cycle
00:08:35 Importance of Mentors and Advice
00:10:40 Changes In The Banking Sector
00:14:25 Work Life Balance in The Banking Sector
00:16:09 Advice Breaking Into Banking Sector
00:19:38 Accomplishment In Banking Sector
00:23:29 Groups To Join - Breaking Into Banking Sector
00:24:29 Define Success

S1 E6 | Director at RBC & Triathlete | ft. Ghalib Salam15 Oct 202300:24:36

Ghalib Salam is a seasoned corporate banker with over 25 years of experience in financial services. He currently holds the position of Director of Commercial Markets at RBC. Salam began his professional journey with the ANZ Banking Group. Over the years, he has honed his skills in business development and advising. This expertise has positioned him as a valuable asset to his clients. He aids clients across various stages of their business lifecycle. He is also a triathlete having completed the Norseman, Swissman and many ironman events. 

Timestamp
00:01:14 Pakistan Experience - National Junior Swimming Champion
00:03:38 Challenges Faced Immigrating To Canada
00:05:04 Growing In A Company Long-Term
00:09:13 How To Maintain and Building Professional Relationships?
00:10:11 Organizing Yourself As A Triathlete
00:12:17 Norseman and Swissman Triathlon Experience
00:16:42 Diet As A triathlete
00:18:38 Mental Attitude Of a Triathlete
00:21:06 Advice to Break Into Banking Sector and Triathlon Sport
00:23:34 Define Success

S1 E5 | Professional Service Consultant at ADA | ft. Hasan Rizvi01 Oct 202300:38:27

Pleased to welcome Hasan Rizvi on today's episode! He holds a Bachelor's in Electrical and Biomedical Engineering from McMaster and a Master's of Engineering in Innovations and Entrepreneurship from Ryerson. During university, Hasan received numerous awards, worked on significant projects, and participated in various internships. His diverse experiences include roles in Pakistan, co-founding Liminal Powers, consulting at Deloitte, and presently working as a consultant at Ada. Ada specializes in using AI to handle some client customer service inquiries.


S1 EP4 | Senior Client Program Manager at TELUS | ft. Muhammad Amjad17 Sep 202300:34:51

Welcome to the East Meets West Pakistan Professional Journeys podcast. Today's guest is Muhammad Amjad, a seasoned professional with degrees in computer science from the University of Central Punjab and MBA essentials from Rotman. Additionally, he's acquired a certificate in advanced project management from UoFT. Throughout his career, Muhammed has donned multiple hats including roles as a software engineer and IT manager at Levies, and as a client manager at Rogers and Telus. Presently, he's serving as a senior client program manager at TELUS. We're delighted to have Muhammad join us today.

Time Stamps
00:00:52 Experience in Pakistan And Importance of Teachers
00:04:23 Proactive Approach - Having A Job Before Landing In Canada
00:09:39 Project Management Role
00:14:08 Effective Time Management
00:16:21 Challenges and Day-To-Day Faced in Project Management Role
00:22:12 Integrating Computer Science Into Project Management Role
00:26:20 Breaking Into Project Managment Role
00:28:53 Volunteering
00:30:34 Key Habits To Success

S1 EP3 | Android Engineer at Microsoft | ft. Adil Mian03 Sep 202300:33:55
Welcome to the "East Meets West Pakistani Professional Journeys" podcast. Today, we're hosting Adil Mian. Adil holds a bachelor's degree in computer science from the University of Waterloo, with a specialization in software engineering. Over his career, he has gained experience through various co-op roles and jobs. He has served as a software developer at well-known firms like  360 Insights, Splunk, and D2L (short for Desire2Learn). Adil's expertise has been recognized and utilized across these major tech companies. Currently, Adil is making his mark as a software engineer at Microsoft. Join us as we delve into his professional journey.

S1 EP2 I AI & Analytics Leader at Deloitte I ft Zohaib Akhtar21 Aug 202300:43:20

Zohaib is distinguished for his combination of business education and tech expertise, boasting certifications such as CMA, CIA, and CSCA. His background is further enriched by his roles at companies like Blackberry, Mattel, PepsiCo, and presently, Deloitte. A fervent believer in constant learning, Zohaib also mentors others. Beyond work, he enjoys sports, animated movies, and was honored with the IMA's Young Leadership Awards in 2018.

Episode 1 | Ex Big 4 CPA Life Journey | ft Syed Azam Afzal06 Aug 202300:08:11

The East Meets West Pakistani Professional Journeys podcast, hosted by Azam, aims to explore the careers of individuals with Pakistani roots working in the West. Azam shares his personal journey, beginning from his relocation from Karachi/UAE to Canada during middle school, to his struggles with academics, and his eventual interest in accounting. He narrated his educational and professional journey, studying accounting at Wilfrid Laurier University and working in various roles including a CSR/product analyst in BMO, an auditor in KPMG and eventually achieving his CPA designation. Azam transitioned from auditing multiple companies to focusing on a single company, gaining in-depth knowledge of its accounting cycle, and is currently seeking roles within financial planning and analysis/Reporting function. The podcast aims to inspire listeners through these stories and deepen their understanding of various industries.

Episode 1: Purpose and Introduction - Syed Azam Afzal - Teaser26 Jul 202300:00:40

This is a quick teaser summary of what will be discussed in the first episode which will be released on Aug 6th. Interviews will start in the 2nd episode set to release on August 20th. Stay tune!

Youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCC_z5YlZrFMdFCCOk-Onjcw

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