Theme: The Future Is What We Make It

We are thrilled to announce TEDxQAU, an event that promises to be a cornerstone of intellectual and creative exchange at Quaid-i-Azam University. TEDxQAU will bring together visionary thinkers, innovators, and leaders from within our university and beyond to share ideas that have the power to change the world. Expect a dynamic program filled with inspiring talks, engaging performances, and thought-provoking discussions, all crafted to spark your imagination and broaden your horizons.
TEDx university events are independently organized under the aegis of TED, offering a platform for scholars, students, and external thought leaders to present groundbreaking ideas and innovations. Our TEDxQAU event will encompass a series of intellectually stimulating talks, performances, and interactive sessions, all designed to inspire and provoke thoughtful discourse within our academic environment.

Quaid I Azam University
Quaid I Azam University Islamabad
Islamabad, Islamabad, 42350
Pakistan

Aziz Nishtar

Corporate Lawyer

Aziz is the co-founder and the current managing partner of the firm. In addition to his current profession of lawyering he earlier has worked in various positions such as Deputy Commissioner of Inland Revenue for 12 years, international tax news editor with a highly prestigious US tax journal, in-house tax counsel with a top Pakistani blue chip corporation, an international trade development officer and business strategy planner with Pakistan International Airline which then was a globally revered corporation. In recent past he has served on the Boards of Privatization Commission and the federal Board of Investment of Pakistan overseeing a number of privatization transactions. Aziz has advised governments and institutions on legislative process and drafting on various issues especially business, investment and international law.

Dr. Sassi Malik Sher

Assistant Director General TE&I (MLCG)

Dr. Sassi Malik Sher one of the five sisters who has made her parents, particularly women in Pakistan, very proud. She is currently serving as Assistant Director General at Military Lands & Cantonments HQ. She leads initiatives like Pakistan's first mobile library and daycare centers for working mothers. An MBBS graduate, CSS officer, and former gymnastics champion, she is an inspiration for everyone around her

Maria Memon

Journalist

Maria Memon our third speaker for TEDxQAU. She is a renowned Pakistani journalist, TV host, and social activist celebrated for her impactful career in media. Initially trained as a software engineer, she discovered her passion for journalism and began her journey as a field reporter with Geo News. Known for her fearless reporting and compelling storytelling, she quickly gained prominence in the industry. Over time, Maria transitioned into a respected news anchor and presenter, hosting several flagship programs. Beyond her work in journalism, she is a vocal advocate for social justice, using her platform to address critical societal issues. Her journey reflects resilience, dedication, and a commitment to meaningful change.

Talha Bhatti

Enviromentalist

Talha Batti an Environmental Scholar heading the "Strengthening Regional Climate Resilience" program at the Institute of Regional Studies, specializing in climate change and environmental governance. With experience in analyzing global climate dashboards and co-authoring reports for multilateral agencies, they have also taught at leading universities like Quaid-i-Azam and Bahria University, mentoring over 300 climate advocates. A regular contributor to print and broadcast media, they write on climate breakdown, security, justice, and resilience finance, while appearing on platforms like PTV World, VOA, and Times. Actively involved in capacity-building and conferences, they engage with institutions such as NUST, QAU, and KIIR. Their research, published in top journals like Fuel and Science of the Total Environment, explores nanotechnology and smart agriculture for sustainable solutions.

Wahaj Siraj

Co Founder & CEO Nayatel

Wahaj is CEO and cofounder of Nayatel, the first company to start fiber broadband in Pakistan in 2005 from Islamabad and then expanding to Rawalpindi, Faisalabad, Peshawar, Gujranwala, Lahore and six more cities. Earlier, Wahaj cofounded Micronet Broadband that launched Pakistan’s first DSL broadband in 2002. Wahaj has also been part of team that launched Pakistan’s second country wide ISP in 1996. Mr. Siraj worked with the Government of Pakistan for 14 years before switching his career as entrepreneur. Wahaj was ranked as second top Pakistani influencer on LinkedIn in August 2024 and is a member of Board of Governors/Directors of some leading Pakistani universities and government organisations. Wahaj is regularly invited as guest speaker in universities and national and international forums to speak on entrepreneurship, self development, character and competence led success and related topics.