Growing up in Quetta, the capital city of Balochistan in Pakistan, I was always curious about how economies work and why some societies are able to create opportunities and prosperity while others continue to struggle with development challenges. More importantly, I was inspired by people who were able to create meaningful change and improve the lives of others through their work.
My professional journey began in accounting and assurance with A.F. Ferguson & Co. (PwC), where I worked on assurance and advisory assignments across a range of organisations. The experience gave me a robust foundation in financial reporting, governance, risk management, and internal controls. While I enjoyed the technical aspects of the work, I found myself increasingly drawn to bigger questions about economic development, institutions, and public policy.
This curiosity led me to join the State Bank of Pakistan, the country's central bank, where I spent almost nine years working across finance and policy functions. During this time, I deepened my understanding of how strong institutions support financial stability and public trust. Later, I also became involved in macroeconomic and external sector analysis, working on issues related to trade, remittances, foreign exchange markets and external sustainability.
As a central banker, I witnessed firsthand how economic policy can directly affect the lives of citizens. Working at the intersection of financial monitoring, policy analysis, and decision-making strengthened my belief in evidence-based policymaking and reinforced my interest in development economics.
As a member of Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) and alongside my professional responsibilities, I pursued other qualifications, including Financial Risk Manager (FRM) and Associate Chartered Accountant (ACA) Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW). Achieving a global distinction in the ACA examinations was a great milestone, but more importantly, these experiences taught me the value of continuous learning and intellectual curiosity throughout one's career.
Seeking a broader understanding of development challenges and policy solutions, I applied to the Master in Public Policy (MPP) programme at the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy (LKYSPP) at the National University of Singapore. Receiving the Lee Foundation Scholarship was a tremendous opportunity; and one that proved to be transformative both professionally and personally.
What inspired you?
Over time, I realised that economics and international finance provide a powerful framework for understanding some of society's most important challenges, from poverty and inequality to trade, development and financial stability.
My experience at the SBP further strengthened this interest. I saw how policy decisions could influence businesses, households, and entire sectors of the economy. That experience motivated me to deepen my understanding of economics and public policy so that I could contribute more effectively to development outcomes.
What did you gain from studying at LKYSPP?
LKYSPP played a significant role in my personal and professional development. Beyond the classroom, I had the opportunity to participate in a wide range of talks, conferences, and discussions featuring policymakers, academics, and practitioners from around the world.
Some of the most memorable experiences were listening to the school's leadership, including founding dean Kishore Mahbubani and former dean Danny Quah, whose perspectives helped me better understand the changing dynamics of geoeconomics.
Academically, I particularly enjoyed courses such as Money and Banking, Macroeconomics of the Global Economy, and International Trade. These courses deepened my understanding of global economic systems and complemented my practical experience in central banking.
I was also fortunate to be selected for an exchange semester at Johns Hopkins University SAIS in Washington, D.C. The experience broadened my exposure to international finance, development policy, and global affairs. During my time there, I attended the IMF-World Bank Annual Meetings, policy discussions at the Brookings Institution, and numerous professional and social events where I built meaningful friendships and professional connections.
Another memorable experience was representing my programme at the Global Negotiation Conference in Zurich, Switzerland, where I participated in a simulation on deep-sea mining. Engaging with participants from diverse professional and cultural backgrounds provided valuable insights into international negotiations and global governance.
Tell us about your current job.
Working at a multilateral development bank had long been one of my professional aspirations. Today, I am fortunate to serve as a Finance Officer at the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB).
The role combines many aspects of my previous experience, including financial management, risk management, governance, and development impact. The work is both enriching and highly specialised, and it provides continuous opportunities to learn and grow professionally.
One of the aspects I value most about AIIB is its truly international environment. The Bank brings together professionals from across the world who are united by a shared mission of supporting sustainable development and prosperity. It is a collaborative and supportive workplace where people work towards common goals while bringing diverse perspectives and experiences to the table.
How has the LKY School experience been relevant to your work?
The skills and exposure I gained at LKYSPP continue to be relevant in my current role at AIIB. The programme strengthened my analytical thinking, broadened my understanding of development issues, and helped me develop important soft skills that are essential in an international environment.
The exposure to different viewpoints, cultures, and policy challenges has been particularly valuable. I have also been fortunate to reconnect with other LKYSPP alumni who work at AIIB, which speaks to the strength of the school’s global network.
What's ahead for you?
Looking ahead, I hope to continue contributing to development, both within Asia and beyond, through my work at AIIB.
My journey has taken me from accounting and assurance to central banking and now to multilateral development finance. While the roles have evolved, the underlying motivation has remained the same: contributing to stronger institutions, sound economic management, and sustainable development outcomes.