Welcome! I'm Akbar A. Herao, and if you’re reading this, you're probably trying to figure out who I am and what I'm all about. Let me take you on a journey back to my childhood. I was raised in a humble middle-class family in one of the most populous cities in the world, Karachi. Despite being born in a developing country, I always harbored grand aspirations of achieving greatness in life.
My path led me to college with dreams of becoming an architect, prompting me to study Pre-Engineering. Despite earning commendable grades, I faced the harsh reality of admissions favoring those with financial means. However, this setback turned into a blessing in disguise as I pivoted to commerce, ultimately completing my MBA with flying colors and securing merit scholarships along the way.
As a young graduate, I've experienced firsthand how the lack of education in the larger population of a developing world adversely impacts every functional aspect of society. Witnessing these challenges has deeply influenced my perspective and fueled my passion for change.
In my view, education is a powerful tool that can enhance human potential, create enabling environments, and bring meaningful progress to the very grassroots of our communities. Recognizing its transformative power, I made it my mission to learn from the best universities around the world and gain experience with the world’s top organizations.
My ultimate goal is to share this expertise with underprivileged communities, empowering them with the knowledge and skills needed to break the cycle of poverty and create sustainable, positive change. Through education, we can unlock the full potential of individuals and foster a brighter future for all.
Following graduation, I made the courageous leap to Canada, where I embarked on a career journey with one of the nation’s leading telecom and technology companies. Over the years, I've navigated through diverse management roles spanning Business, Finance, Strategy, and Sustainability.
Through unwavering perseverance, robust grit, and a laser focus on my goals, I've earned a stellar reputation as a senior management professional. My dedication to continuous learning and growth has been pivotal to my success. I have augmented my expertise through esteemed business management programs at renowned universities such as McGill, Oxford, and Cambridge.
But beyond the accolades and achievements lies a deeper commitment to making a meaningful impact. I believe in using my skills and experiences to drive positive change in the communities we live in, implementing best practices whether it's through fostering innovation, championing sustainability initiatives, or empowering others to reach their full potential.
To foster progress for individuals, including students, small and medium-sized businesses, and communities, I have initiated a mentorship program. In my spare time, I collaborate with these individuals, businesses, and groups to help them achieve sustainability and unlock their potential. My goal is to guide them towards excellence and enhance their quality of life.
When asked about my hobbies, I enjoy writing my monthly blog ‘AKBAR’s Archive,’ conducting a seasonal podcast ‘Salaam Namaste Canada with Akbar,’ and passionately involving myself in writing novels, books and poetry. I also love to travel, enjoy good food, and listen to music.
In essence, I am a testament to the power of resilience, adaptability, and relentless determination. My journey illustrates that with vision and perseverance, one can transcend barriers and realize their fullest potential. As I continue to forge ahead, I remain steadfast in my pursuit of excellence and making a difference in the world.
