“Whether you think you can, or you think you can’t – you’re right,” goes the saying. In the midst of complexities life has to offer, it takes constant determination and focus to keep moving forward and achieve your goals.
And if you ever feel down, there are plenty of inspiring stories around to keep you motivated. One such tale is of Hussain Nadim, who has made our community proud. A doctoral candidate at the University of Sydney, the Pakistani-born intellectual was recently named on Forbes ’30 Under 30’ list as he was recognised as a global leader in law and policy.
You may have heard him expressing expert views in our programs, but to honour his recent achievement we requested him to give us an insight into his life. He was happy to take time out and respond to our email to answer some questions.
Where were you born and where did you go to school?
I was born in Lahore but moved around a lot because my father was in the military. Early education was a mix of both army schools and later at a private school in Lahore.
Where did you pursue your higher education and why did you choose the institution/country?
I chose the George Washington University in United States to pursue my bachelor’s degree. I believe that the US universities and the society itself provides an opportunity unlike any other place in the world. The diversity, academic culture and opportunities available in the US made it a priority for me. The fact that I wanted to pursue a degree in International Relations and Politics, being at George Washington University was an ideal place because of the location in Washington, DC, the top notch professors in the faculty, and the amount of work experience available for students in the capital.
I further went to University of Cambridge in UK to pursue my MPhil which was a rewarding experience given the difference in culture, academia and society from the US.
How does it feel to be on Forbes ’30 Under 30’ list?
Being recognised by Forbes is a humbling experience. Not only that it is a reassurance of the path I have chosen for myself, but more so a commitment to serve the people and society globally.
To me, getting recognized by Forbes as '30 Under 30' is a gateway to deliver more, and in innovative ways, solutions for the problems that collective human society faces in the form of intolerance, racism, hate and extremism. It feels good to represent your people and the country at such a level, and makes you more aware of the responsibilities as a global citizen.
Write down the dreams. Plan out the strategy. Find a Mentor. Get Inspired. Work harder than your competition.
In what capacity did you work for the Government of Pakistan?
After the 2013 elections I was appointed as the Special Assistant to Federal Minister at the Ministry of Planning, Development and Reforms where I initiated the Young Development Fellows Program and numerous other projects including the Peace and Development Unit, Young Development Corps (YDC), Internship program and several other educational and development projects.
Previously, I worked very closely in the security and defence sector of Pakistan advising the government on its foreign and security policy.
What was the motivation behind working for the government?
I truly believe that real and sustainable change can only come through the public sector in Pakistan. It is in a desperate need for reforms, and having right people in the public sector will allow the change in the bureaucratic mindset which will steer Pakistan in the right direction.
What brought you to Australia?
Source: Hussain Nadim
It was the only region and country left that I hadn’t explored. Being an international relationist, I believe that traveling and immersing in different societies is the true form of education. I had done my bachelors from the US, graduate school from UK, and thought doing a PhD from Australia would give me an unparalleled exposure and understanding of the world.
Brain drain is among many problems that Pakistan is facing. You have lived in different countries and worked in Pakistan at the same time. How do you think people not residing in Pakistan can play their role to serve the country?
Due to the advancement of internet I feel anyone sitting anywhere in the world can contribute for Pakistan in their own way. Working in the politics, government or sending money back to Pakistan isn’t the only way to serve the country. Each one of us, no matter which part of the world that we live in, represent Pakistan. Being a successful, good and productive citizen in your adopted country is the best service to your own people, country and religion. It is really what we do in the western world and other countries that define Pakistan.
Where do you see yourself going from here?
Ideally I’d like to return to the US and work in the International development sector for couple of years before I go back to Pakistan and involve myself fully into the public sector.
Any piece of advice for people with big dreams out there?
Write down the dreams. Plan out the strategy. Find a Mentor. Get Inspired. Work harder than your competition.
