Islamabad : Pathfinder Group’s an insightful event, “Empowering the Future with Smart Solutions”, at AmaaniBagh Angoori. Highlighted the Group’s remarkable work in the digital and financial revolution by its Digital Revolution Division (DRD). It brought together distinguished corporate leaders, technologists, policymakers, and innovators to deliberate on the future of smart technologies and digital transformation in Pakistan. The dynamic youth of Pakistan, representing several universities, also attended this futuristic event.
Shakeel Ahmed, Chief Executive Officer of Digital Revolution Division (DRD) and SMS Services (Pvt) Ltd (SMSS), highlighted the Group’s vision to drive digital growth, foster innovation, and create sustainable business ecosystems in the era of technological disruption.
Featuring corporate presentations from various Pathfinder Group divisions, the event showcased the organization’s diverse portfolio and leadership across multiple sectors. This included Jahangir Javed, COO of Wackenhut Pakistan (Pvt) Ltd, representing the Security Services Division (SSD).
Muhammad Salman Ali, CEO of Virtual Remittance Gateway (VRG), focusing on innovative fintech solutions driving financial inclusion and digital payment transformation across Pakistan. Air Commodore (Retd) Farhan Ahmed presented on behalf of the Centre for Innovation, Technological Advancement, Digital Entrepreneurs & Leadership (CITADEL), highlighting the Group’s dedication to nurturing innovation, entrepreneurship, and technological leadership. He also announced the final list of startups selected to represent Pakistan at the upcoming World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos 2026, promote Pakistan’s existence in global collaboration and innovation-driven entrepreneurship.
Maj Gen (Retd) Shakeel Hussain, Deputy Chairman of Pathfinder Group, presented the Enhanced Harmony Division (EHD) on behalf of Brig (Retd) Mujahid Alam, CEO of Providentia Books Foundation and Pathfinder Interfaith Harmony Initiative (PIHI).
The session concluded with a comprehensive corporate presentation by Shakeel Ahmed, covering the strategic direction and achievements of both DRD and SMS Services (Pvt) Ltd, reflecting their pivotal role in advancing digital connectivity and business solutions across multiple sectors.
The event’s highlight was the panel discussion on “Driving Digital Transformation in Pakistan: Challenges and Opportunities.” Moderated by Imran Jattala (Advisor CITADEL), the debate brought together an eminent panel including Shakeel Ahmed (CEO DRD & SMS), Dr Usman Zia (Asst Professor NUST), Dr Kamil Tarar (CEO J & J Consulting Company), Zeeshan Mazhar (Chief Digital Officer ZTBL), and Air Commodore (Retd) Khalid Banuri (Principal Advisor, CITADEL).
The panelists addressed key challenges such as infrastructure gaps, regulatory barriers, and skills development, while highlighting the immense potential for innovation, public-private collaboration, and technology-led economic growth.
The event was graced by two distinguished chief guests — Former Chief Justice of Pakistan Justice Saqib Nisar and Sultana Siddique, Founder and President of HUM Network.
In her special remarks, Sultana Siddiqui underscored the importance of creativity, resilience, and leadership in driving innovation within Pakistan’s rapidly evolving digital and technological landscapes.
Chief Justice Saqib Nisar appreciated national progress in responsible entrepreneurship, innovation, and social engagement.
In his concluding remarks, Ikram Sehgal appreciated the valuable contributions of all speakers, panelists, and participants and reiterated Pathfinder Group’s enduring commitment to advancing smart solutions, fostering innovation, and building a digitally empowered Pakistan capable of competing on the global stage.
Sohail Majeed is a Special Correspondent at The Diplomatic Insight. He has twelve plus years of experience in journalism & reporting. He covers International Affairs, Diplomacy, UN, Sports, Climate Change, Economy, Technology, and Health.
