Syed Ahmed, CSO of AWAN Distribution, on E-Commerce, Startups & Technology Trends

1. Tell us about yourself, how did you reach there

I have diversified experience of 20+ years from pre-sales to sales, as System integrator to handling different I.T distribution setups.

2. How do you see Technology is changing our Lives

Technology has become an integral part of our daily lives, profoundly changing how we communicate, work, learn, and interact with the world. Some of few aspects that can be discussed are:

1. Global connectivity
   • With platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook, and LinkedIn, communication has become faster and more accessible. Social media and messaging apps allow people to connect across borders instantly, while video conferencing has normalized remote work and virtual gatherings.

2. New ways of learning and Education
   • Online learning platforms have made high-quality education accessible to anyone with internet access, enabling lifelong learning and skill development. Additionally, AI-powered personalized learning is helping students to learn at their own pace.

3. Growth of E-commerce and Digital Finance
   • Online shopping has become convenient and popular, with platforms like Amazon and Daraz providing a wide selection of products at competitive prices. Digital payment options are also making their way into our lives, making it easier than ever to go cashless and transact globally.

In summary, technology is enriching our lives in countless ways, although it brings challenges such as privacy concerns, job displacement, and the need for responsible usage. Balancing innovation with responsibility is essential to ensure technology continues to serve humanity’s best interests.

3. What are your best accomplishments

Started 3 ventures in the last 8 years and achieved to be one of the best distributors in Pakistan and Afghanistan.

4. What is the future of E-Commerce you see in Pakistan

The future of e-commerce in Pakistan looks promising, with several factors driving rapid growth and opportunities in this sector. Here are some key trends and developments likely to shape the e-commerce landscape in Pakistan:

1. Rising Internet Penetration and Smartphone Use
   • Pakistan has a growing base of internet users, with over 100 million people connected to the internet, and smartphone usage is expanding even in rural areas. As digital literacy improves, more people will turn to online shopping, broadening the e-commerce market.

2. Growth of Digital Payments
   • With the State Bank of Pakistan supporting digital banking and platforms like EasyPaisa, JazzCash, and the new Raast payment system, more people are finding it easier to make secure digital transactions. This shift is crucial in transitioning from cash-on-delivery (COD) to digital payments, boosting the e-commerce ecosystem’s growth.

3. Government Initiatives and Regulatory Support
   • The Pakistani government is actively promoting digital economy initiatives. Policies aimed at boosting IT exports, improving digital infrastructure, and fostering entrepreneurship are expected to support e-commerce growth. For instance, the government’s “Digital Pakistan” initiative is working to create a conducive environment for online businesses by improving internet access and providing training for digital skills.

4. Emergence of New Marketplaces
   • Major platforms like Daraz and Alibaba have set strong foundations, and other specialized e-commerce sites are emerging, targeting specific niches like fashion, electronics, and groceries. Additionally, social commerce (shopping through social media platforms) is gaining traction, especially among small and medium enterprises. This growth offers opportunities for diverse products and services to cater to specific consumer demands.

E-commerce in Pakistan is set to expand as digital infrastructure, payment solutions, and logistical networks improve. While challenges such as logistics, payment security, and consumer trust remain, the sector’s growth potential is substantial.

5. What is your Vision & Goal

My vision is to become an inspiration for upcoming youth in I.T to show them the right path as per their expertise. I want to guide them, so they reach their success path much more easily as compared to the way we missed the guidance 2 decades ago.

To achieve this vision, I have set up short-term goals and objectives such as:

1. Establish a Mentorship Program
   • Goal: Develop a structured mentorship program where young IT professionals can receive personalized guidance and skill development aligned with their unique strengths and career paths.
   • Approach: Offer regular mentorship sessions, workshops, and career counseling to help them identify their expertise and chart a clearer path. This program can focus on skill-building, industry insights, and practical career advice.

2. Create an Online Knowledge-Sharing Platform
   • Goal: Build a resource-rich platform—such as a blog, YouTube channel, or social media community—where you share advice, tutorials, and success stories tailored to young IT aspirants.
   • Approach: Post content on essential topics like skill development, industry trends, career planning, and overcoming common challenges. Sharing your own experiences and insights can be powerful in helping youth avoid the pitfalls of previous generations.

3. Host Workshops and Webinars Focused on Emerging Skills
   • Goal: Regularly organize online or in-person events where you cover trending skills (like cloud computing, AI, or cybersecurity) and provide hands-on training to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application.
   • Approach: Partner with tech organizations and experienced professionals to create interactive sessions, allowing young professionals to gain relevant skills and industry connections.

4. Develop a Guide for Strategic Career Planning
   • Goal: Publish a guide, possibly an e-book or a series of articles, that outlines effective career planning tailored to various IT roles. Include insights on setting short-term and long-term goals, choosing the right certifications, and building a professional network.
   • Approach: Use real-life examples, including your own journey, to illustrate practical steps that can fast-track success and clarity for those new to the field.

5. Create a Youth-Centric IT Internship or Apprenticeship Program
   • Goal: Establish a structured program within your organization (or partner with others) that provides young talent with real-world IT project experience, bridging the gap between education and professional work.
   • Approach: Offer rotational opportunities across different areas (e.g., development, cybersecurity, cloud) so they can explore and identify their expertise early on with direct mentorship.

These goals not only allow you to guide young professionals toward their potential but also ensure they have a clear, structured path that was less available in the past. By offering them practical insights and support, you’re giving them the tools to achieve more efficiently and confidently.

6. How do you see Startups in Pakistan?

Startups in Pakistan are rapidly emerging and evolving, with a noticeable upswing in recent years driven by a mix of local talent, global interest, and increased digital connectivity. Here’s an overview of the current startup ecosystem in Pakistan and the factors influencing its growth:

1. Growing Entrepreneurial Spirit
   • Pakistan has a young, tech-savvy population with a strong desire to innovate and solve local problems. Many are venturing into entrepreneurship, especially in tech, e-commerce, fintech, edtech, and healthtech sectors. This entrepreneurial spirit is shaping a vibrant startup culture that’s driving innovation and fostering resilience.

2. Increased Access to Funding and Investment
   • The influx of venture capital from both local and international investors has been critical in fueling the startup ecosystem. Several notable funding rounds in recent years have supported startups like Airlift, Bykea, and Bazaar, which are innovating across logistics, finance, and e-commerce. However, Pakistan’s venture capital market is still developing, with room for more early-stage funding to support smaller startups.

3. Government Support and Policy Initiatives
   • Government initiatives, such as the “Digital Pakistan” vision and the creation of technology parks, are fostering a more conducive environment for startups. Tax breaks, regulatory reforms, and startup incubators have been introduced to encourage entrepreneurship. Efforts to simplify regulations and reduce the cost of doing business are positive steps toward nurturing a supportive ecosystem.

4. Growth of Fintech and Digital Financial Services
   • Fintech is a particularly promising area for startups in Pakistan, as the country has a largely unbanked population with significant financial inclusion challenges. Fintech startups are addressing gaps in digital payments, microloans, and financial literacy. Platforms like Easypaisa, Jazz Cash, and TAG are making financial services more accessible, which is crucial for a growing digital economy.

5. Expansion of E-Commerce and Digital Services
   • Pakistan’s e-commerce industry has boomed in the past few years, driven by increased internet and smartphone penetration. Startups in e-commerce, such as Daraz, have paved the way, while smaller companies are focusing on niche markets like fashion, electronics, and groceries. The growing middle class and shift toward digital payments are fueling demand for online shopping and digital services.

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