In this latest series of articles, we publish interviews with women working as professionals or students in the technology sector. The objective is to highlight their work and contribution to the industry and the community.
In these interviews, you will find women working in technology to solve real-world problems, break stereotypes, and create the next big impact on the tech industry. This series of interviews shows that even with the lowest rate of women’s participation in the labor market in Pakistan, there are still many smart women who are creating and using technology to work wonders.
Today, we are featuring Usra Sami. Read on to learn more about her work and get inspired.
1. Tell us a little about yourself, your background, your education, and your work.
I hold a degree in Computer Engineering from NED University, and my professional journey began after completing my Master’s in 2014. Currently, I serve as a Senior Lecturer at Bahria University Karachi. When I first embarked on this path, it felt challenging and intimidating, but over time, I discovered that teaching truly nourishes my soul. While teaching was not initially my passion, I have found that sharing my knowledge and skills to help others has profoundly impacted who I am today, fostering a sense of purpose and fulfillment.
2. What are your future plans/aspirations? How will it impact the community/society/your team/your project?
As a woman teaching in the field of technology, I aspire to be a role model who encourages girls and young women to step forward, pursue their passions, and make a meaningful difference in Pakistani society. My goal is to foster an environment of kindness, support, and empowerment, equipping students with the tools, knowledge, and experiences that have shaped my own professional journey.
I believe in the potential of every girl and young woman to contribute to building a brighter, more progressive Pakistan. Coming from a privileged background, I feel a deep responsibility to use that privilege to uplift others and help create opportunities for everyone to thrive.
3. Please brag about your career accomplishments. What are the things you are proud of?
Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of teaching a wide range of courses to students, helping to shape future engineers and technologists. I am particularly proud of supervising numerous final-year projects, guiding students through complex problem-solving and innovative thinking, many of whom have gone on to achieve great success. Additionally, I have contributed to the academic community by publishing research papers, which reflect my dedication to advancing knowledge in the field of computer engineering. These experiences not only define my professional journey but also inspire me to continue making a meaningful impact through education and research.
4. What has been your best education/career decision, and why?
My best career decision has been to stay dedicated and resilient despite facing numerous challenges along the way. As a married woman with children, I have often had to balance family responsibilities with my professional aspirations. I made the conscious choice to never give up, even when switching jobs or facing obstacles. This perseverance has allowed me to gradually grow and make meaningful progress in my career. I believe that staying committed to my goals, while managing my personal life, has been the most rewarding decision, enabling me to continue evolving both professionally and personally.
5. What are the best lessons you’ve learned?
Don’t take life so seriously; it is a journey from A to B. It is learning, growth, and it is survival. It is the ability to approach life, whatever may come your way, with a positive (I can kick your ass) attitude.
6. Which woman inspires you and why?
Honestly, I find inspiration in almost every woman I encounter. Whether it’s the woman who comes to my home as a househelp, my boss, or women I meet in my community, each of them is winning at life in her own unique way. They showcase strength, resilience, determination, and grace, often juggling multiple roles and challenges with unwavering courage. Every woman, in her own context, teaches me something valuable about perseverance, kindness, and the power of never giving up. All these women motivate me to keep striving, to stay strong, and to believe in the limitless potential within every woman.
7. Do you think Pakistan has changed as a society in terms of accepting career-oriented women? What needs to change to help more women come forward?
Yes, I do believe Pakistan is gradually changing in terms of accepting and embracing career-oriented women. As a university faculty, I have seen a remarkable increase in the number of girls pursuing higher education, especially in fields like IT and engineering. These young women are becoming more competitive, creative, and confident, often backed by strong family support. Each girl who steps into her chosen career path is setting an inspiring example for her neighborhood, family, and community, breaking stereotypes and paving the way for others to follow. I firmly believe that the time is near when we will see greater female representation across all sectors of the IT industry.
However, to accelerate this progress, we need continued awareness and societal support for women’s ambitions, along with policies that promote gender equality, safe work environments, and flexible opportunities. By fostering a culture that encourages girls to dream big and empowering them to succeed, I am confident that we will witness even more women leading and thriving in their careers.
8. What will be the biggest challenge for the generation of women behind you?
The biggest challenge for the next generation of women is to cultivate inner clarity and rational judgment rather than acting on impulses. They possess incredible potential; they are more creative, vibrant, and innovative than any generation before them. However, with the influence of social media and constant digital engagement, there is a risk of losing touch with their true selves.
I think it is crucial for them to develop inner resilience and appreciate the deeper aspects of life beyond superficial distractions. Only then can they truly harness their potential and create a meaningful, fulfilled life.
9. What would it be if you could change one thing about the tech industry/business?
If I could change one thing about the tech industry, it would be to foster a more welcoming and inclusive environment that actively supports women. This includes providing better support for women in terms of transportation, maternity leave, and work-from-home options.
10. How can WomenInTechPK help you and other women?
WomenInTechPK is playing an effective role in supporting me and other women by providing a strong platform for networking and building a community.
You can follow Usra Sami using her profile(s) below, and please do not hesitate to hire her for your next project.
