In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized (subject to certain rules and regulations).

Lecture Theater Hall
U.S.-Pakistan Center for Advanced Studies in Water
Mehran University of Engineering and Technology
Jamshoro, Sindh, 76020
Pakistan

Adnan Gandhi

Adnan Gandhi is a passionate fitness advocate, entrepreneur, and accomplished marathoner shaping Pakistan’s running culture. As the co-owner of CORE gym Karachi and co-founder of Seaview Runners Club (SVRC), he has played a key role in promoting community fitness, organizing events like the Inter-Club Half Marathon. His dedication to running led him to achieve a Boston Marathon qualifying time at the 2023 Berlin Marathon. In 2020, he was appointed Fitness Ambassador for Special Olympics Pakistan, furthering his commitment to inclusivity in sports. Through his athletic achievements and social media presence, he continues to inspire and empower individuals to lead healthier lifestyles.

Athar Osama

Dr. Athar Osama is a renowned public policy expert, entrepreneur, and advocate for innovation and science education. As the Founder of Pakistan Innovation Foundation (PIF) since 2012, he has been instrumental in championing innovation in Pakistan’s private sector and broader society. He also serves as the Chief Executive of Technomics International Ltd (UK), a policy research and consulting firm specializing in technology and innovation strategies. With extensive experience in entrepreneurship, Dr. Osama is a Founding Charter Member of OPEN (London Chapter), a global platform supporting Pakistani entrepreneurs. Previously, as Director for the Middle East and Asia at ANGLE plc, he led programs on SME innovation, clean energy, and investment strategies across 10 countries. His research background includes serving as a Doctoral Fellow at The RAND Corporation (USA), where he contributed to projects on R&D performance, venture capital policy, and e-commerce strategy. Dr. Osama’s expertise spans economic and technology policy, entrepreneurship, venture capital, and strategic planning, with a strong focus on fostering innovation-driven growth in emerging markets. His work continues to shape science education, economic development, and technology management worldwide.

Erum Baloch

Erum Baloch is a pioneering Pakistani athlete and coach dedicated to empowering women through sports. In 2017, at the age of 23, she founded the Stars Women Sports Academy (SWSA) in Jacobabad, Sindh—the city's first women's sports club—providing a safe space for girls to engage in sports, particularly hockey. Despite facing societal resistance and financial challenges, Erum's unwavering commitment has led to the academy's growth, with players now competing at provincial and national levels. Her efforts have been recognized by UN Women Pakistan, highlighting her role in promoting gender equality in sports. Beyond hockey, Erum is also a national table tennis player, further exemplifying her versatile athletic prowess. Through her leadership at SWSA, she continues to inspire and create opportunities for young women in Pakistan to pursue their sporting ambitions.

Sana Shah

Sana Shah is a dynamic leader in Pakistan’s tech and entrepreneurship ecosystem, currently serving as the Director of AshreiTech Academy at NASTP, where she has rapidly expanded global tech training programs. With over 16 years of experience, she previously managed the National Incubation Center (NIC) Karachi, facilitating startup growth and industry partnerships. She played a key role in bringing INSEAD’s entrepreneurship program to Pakistan and co-facilitated the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs to empower women-led businesses. Passionate about diversity and inclusion, she continues to drive innovation, mentor startups, and shape a more inclusive startup ecosystem.

Tariq Alexander Qaiser

Tariq Alexander Qaiser is a multifaceted professional based in Karachi, Pakistan, with a career spanning architecture, environmentalism, filmmaking, writing, and photography. As the principal architect at TAQ Associates, he specializes in designing educational and healthcare facilities, and has also contributed as visiting faculty at the Harvard School of Public Health in Boston. Beyond architecture, Qaiser is an active environmentalist, producing films and artworks that highlight ecological issues, particularly focusing on the preservation of Karachi's mangroves. His creative works have been featured in various exhibitions, and he has authored bilingual books. Notably, Time Magazine's July 2022 Oceans Issue included an eight-page feature on his conservation efforts. Qaiser continues to engage in film production and is working on a series of books about the Indus Delta, all while managing his architectural practice.

Wajahat Karim

Wajahat Karim is Pakistan's first and only Google Developer Expert (GDE) in Android, with nearly a decade of professional experience in Android development. He has contributed to over 100 applications across various domains, including e-commerce, ride-sharing, and communication platforms. An active open-source contributor, Wajahat has developed several Android libraries utilized by developers worldwide. He is also an accomplished author, having co-written two comprehensive books on Android development and penned over 100 articles on the subject. As an international public speaker, Wajahat shares his expertise at conferences globally, aiming to inspire and educate the developer community.