TEDxQAU

Speakers

Speakers may not be confirmed. Check the event website for the latest lineup.

• Dr. Sarah Qureshi

  Pakistani aerospace engineer, jet engine inventor, and hobby pilot.

  An aerospace engineer, jet engine inventor, and hobby pilot with a PhD from Cranfield University, she is redefining the future of aviation. As the co-founder & CEO of Aero Engine Craft, Pakistan’s first commercial jet engine R&D company, she is leading the development of contrail-free, eco-friendly engines—while also pioneering Pakistan’s first indigenous drone jet engine. With 33 prestigious awards, including the Tamgha-e-Imtiaz, and global recognition among the Top 100 Asian Scientists (2025), her work has reached platforms like NASA and Boeing.

• Faheem Azam

  Pakistani stand-up comedian, director, and screenwriter

  Faheem Azam is a multifaceted expert in the Performing Arts, with extensive experience in acting, direction, screenwriting, and stand-up comedy. As a renowned stand-up comedian and accomplished director, writer, and coach, he has made significant contributions to the industry. Notable works include his acclaimed projects with 'Teeli' as a writer and director, the international award-winning film 'Taalish,' and the popular web series 'Main aur Wo, Aur Hamaara Baanway.' He also served as an acting coach for the blockbuster feature film 'Parey Hut Love.' In addition to coaching actors, writers, directors, and stand-up comedians, Faheem is a sought-after speaker on social influence and youth motivation, having presented at various forums, including TEDX.

• Fareed Ahmad Mustafai

  Founder and Chairman of the Young Psychologists Association (YPA) and a youth development trainer

  Fareed is a certified Master Practitioner in Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) and Hypnosis. He is the Founder and Charman of the Young Psychologists Association (YPA), a leading platform for youth empowerment in Pakistan, with over 10 years of experience in leadership and mindset transformation. He has collaborated with 50+ organizations, including UNDP, UNODC, and government bodies in Pakistan. A winning debater, he is known for his strong communication, strategic thinking, and contributions to youth, education, and social impact initiatives.

• Hamid Mir

  Pakistani journalist, columnist, political writer, and a national security expert

  Hamid Mir is one of Pakistan’s most prominent investigative journalists, political commentators, and national security analysts. With a career spanning over three decades, he is the host of Capital Talk on Geo News, the country’s longest-running political talk show. Mir is globally recognized as the only South Asian journalist to have covered conflicts across Afghanistan, Iraq, Lebanon, Palestine, and Chechnya, and for conducting three historic interviews with Osama bin Laden. A fierce defender of press freedom and human rights, he is a contributing columnist for The Washington Post and has received numerous honors, including Pakistan’s civil award, the Hilal-i-Imtiaz.

• Ibtisam Babar

  Social Entrepreneur

  Ibtisam is a rising digital entrepreneur and youth leader in Pakistan. He is currently associated with JS Bank through its innovative platform Zindigi Prize. He has played a key role in promoting entrepreneurship among students and startups across the country. His work focuses on empowering young minds, connecting them with opportunities and building a strong startup ecosystem.

• Naela Chohan

  Pakistani artist and diplomat

  From negotiating across continents to representing Pakistan at the highest diplomatic levels, Naela Chohan has spent decades shaping conversations that matter. As one of the senior-most women in Pakistan's foreign service, she has led diplomatic missions across five continents, strengthened Pakistan's international partnerships, and broken barriers in spaces historically dominated by men. Her journey reflects diplomacy not just as statecraft, but as cultural dialogue, strategic vision, and public service.

• Osama Hamid

  Assistant Commissioner IRS

  Osama Hamid is a force of governance and inspiration for our youth. Through his honest and relatable video content he shares raw insights into the life of a civil servant while offering powerful advice on personal growth and effective study techniques. His Influence extends globally where he represents Pakistan at various national and international forums.

• Umair Jaliawala

  trainer, storyteller, traveler, community builder

  Umair Jaliawala is the CEO and Director at theturningforce . He is a seasoned inspirational speaker, learning consultant, trainer, facilitator and digital creator. Umair weaves content from faith, business, history and psychology to create inspirational and leadership development experiences for a wide-range of audiences. He has been involved with over 500+ commercial, non-profit, government and educational clients.