Najamus Sahar Durrani

I began my journey at Tech Valley Pakistan, which has been diverse and has involved various roles that have contributed to my growth and expertise. Starting from content writing to my current position as Program Manager, each step has been a valuable learning experience shaped by diverse events and scenarios.
A pivotal chapter of my journey involved spearheading the incubation program at Tech Valley Abbottabad, working closely with startups. This hands-on involvement allowed me to troubleshoot challenges, share in their successes, and gain insight into the intricate business development process. Collaborating with these startups enabled me to cultivate partnerships, foster innovation, and implement best practices for incubation centers, contributing significantly to the regional startup ecosystem.
My engagement with the Startup Grind Abbottabad Chapter, spanning 18 months, extended my reach on a global scale. I organized events to inspire, educate, and connect resident entrepreneurs, strengthening the local entrepreneurial ecosystem and connecting it to international opportunities.
A significant contribution involved my role in scrutinizing candidates for training programs, ensuring suitability for the project's goals. Amid the digital shift prompted by Covid-19, I acquired Google Workspace Level 1 certification, enhancing my proficiency in digital tools for entrepreneurship and remote collaboration.
The exposure to Oklahoma University's entrepreneurial ecosystem, as part of a professional fellowship program in 2019, further refined my leadership abilities and global perspective. This experience led to securing an in-country partnership for Tech Valley, coordinating with Pakistani candidates to gain exposure to U.S. entrepreneurial practices and implement these insights in their local communities.
An impactful initiative I led involved a capacity-building program, "Women, Peace, and Security," funded by the U.S. Embassy, which empowered and trained 300 women. This initiative exemplifies my commitment to fostering gender-inclusive entrepreneurship and community empowerment. In response to the evolving work landscape, I facilitated remote training for startups in Durshal, emphasizing adaptability and connectivity in the digital era.
Through these experiences, I have honed problem-solving acumen, communication prowess, and strategic thinking. Winning an Alumni Small Grant from the Pakistan U.S. Alumni Network underscored the va