Panel Discussion

Dr. Zubair Shaikh

Dr. Zubair Sheikh is a distinguished professional with over 20 years of experience in academia, research, and IT consultancy. He holds a Ph.D. and MS in Computer Science from New York, and has worked extensively in solving complex business challenges, particularly in the areas of E-Governance, Educational Planning, and Technical & Vocational Education. His career spans senior academic roles, including over 15 years of IT consultancy experience with prestigious institutions like Wall Street, and collaboration with international organizations such as USAID, World Bank, and the EU. Dr. Sheikh is recognized for his leadership in strategic management, R&D in ICT, and his expertise in pedagogical models for developing nations.

Shahzad Shahid

Shahzad Shahid is a dynamic business leader with over 20 years of international experience in digital banking and payments. As the CEO of TPS, a leading fintech company, he has played a pivotal role in driving innovation and growth in payments technology and digital banking solutions. His expertise spans management, strategy, business development, and transformation, with a focus on balancing risk, governance, and growth. Shahzad is also actively involved in various boards and associations, including Covalent and P@SHA, and serves as a mentor and speaker in the tech industry. He holds a Master’s degree in Computer Science from FAST ICS

Asim Iqbal

Asim Iqbal is an experienced IT professional with a strong background in IT Infrastructure Implementation, Operations Management, IT Strategy, and Governance. With expertise in Enterprise Architecture and Cyber Security, he has successfully managed IT networks and systems at the Central Bank, along with overseeing Enterprise Knowledge Management programs and digitization initiatives. Asim is also well-versed in digital payment systems and holds a TOGAF certification, which further strengthens his proficiency in aligning IT with business goals for sustainable success.

Dr. Farah Essa Zaidi

Dr. Farah Essa Zaidi is a passionate physician, clinical educator, and entrepreneur with over two decades of experience across Canada, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan. She has expertise in high-risk materno-fetal ultrasound, gained during her training at St. Michael’s Hospital in Toronto, and has significantly contributed to healthcare education by training over 500 Saudi health students. Upon returning to Pakistan in 2018, Dr. Farah revamped operations at Dr. Essa Laboratory and founded Dr. Farah Essa Academy to uplift healthcare standards. An advocate for women’s empowerment and entrepreneurship, she is also the first female President of OPEN, supporting marginalized communities through education and skill development initiatives.

Ayaz Ahmed Uqaili

Ayaz Ahmed Uqaili is a seasoned technology leader currently serving as Member Industry Development for the Government of Sindh, where he advocates for digital literacy, public sector FinTech, and citizen-centric policies. With a career marked by impactful transformations, Ayaz has held key roles such as Chief Technology Officer at Apricart, where he built a comprehensive e-commerce solution, and at HBFC, where he led the end-to-end digitalization of core business functions. His work at Telenor Bank streamlined banking and Easypaisa operations, and he played a pivotal role in transforming EOBI’s IT infrastructure into an efficient, user-friendly system. Ayaz is deeply committed to leveraging technology to empower citizens and drive informed policy-making for impactful governance.