East Meets West: Pakistani Professional Journeys
§ 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.
East Meets West: Pakistani Professional Journeys
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 Intro
00:52 Personal Ties to Pakistan
02:09 Describing Pakistan to the World
03:59 Motivation to Study Abroad
06:15 Challenges and Adjustments Abroad
08:37 Career Growth and Opportunities
11:23 Breaking into Big Tech
14:29 What is a Senior Strategist?
18:42 The Importance of Networking
19:41 Career Coaching and Mentorship Services
22:58 Essential Skills for Working Abroad
25:03 Mindset and Preparation for Success
27:58 Common Mistakes in Job Applications
32:00 Advice to My Younger Self
37:26 AI Benefits
38:12 Defining Success in Life and Career
42:05 Conclusion