From a Dream Deferred to a Purpose Discovered

Growing up in Pakistan, I always believed that education could change not only my future but also the future of others. My dream was to study Cyber Security at the National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST). I worked hard, prepared for the National Entry Test (NET), and was thrilled when I qualified for admission.

But life had different plans.

Although I had earned my place, I couldn't move far from home to attend my dream university. At first, it felt like I had lost the future I had envisioned for myself. Looking back now, I realize that sometimes a closed door leads us to a path we never imagined.

During my final year of high school (Grade 12), I was introduced to Artificial Intelligence. What started as curiosity quickly became a passion. I began learning machine learning, neural networks, and intelligent systems through online courses, personal projects, and internships. Today, I am building my career in AI and Machine Learning, gaining hands-on experience through AI internships while continuing my degree in Software Engineering.

As I learned more about AI, one question stayed with me:

How can we ensure that powerful AI systems remain ethical, transparent, and beneficial for everyone?

That question led me beyond programming and into the world of AI safety, ethics, and governance.

To broaden my perspective, I actively sought opportunities outside the classroom. I participated in webinars, workshops, and international learning communities. I completed leadership and innovation programs through eCornell, joined the KECTIL (Knowledge, Excellence, Collaboration, and Transformation through International Learning) global youth leadership network, became a PKTron Quantum Summer Program Ambassador, and was selected for the DoraDAO Fellowship, where I explored emerging technologies, decentralized innovation, and global collaboration.

These experiences taught me that leadership is not about having all the answers—it's about listening, learning, and creating opportunities for others.

Today, my vision extends beyond becoming an AI engineer. I aspire to become an AI leader who helps shape the future of AI governance, ensuring that intelligent systems are developed responsibly, transparently, and with humanity at their center. I want to contribute to a future where AI empowers people, protects their rights, and reflects diverse voices from every part of the world.

Joining World Pulse feels like another step on that journey. I hope to connect with women who are driving change in their own communities, learn from their experiences, and share my own story of resilience, technology, and leadership.

I'd love to hear from you:

How can young women from developing countries play a meaningful role in shaping the future of ethical AI and global technology governance?

I'm excited to learn from this community and grow together