Meet Azhar Ali Siddiqui.
There are so many youngsters in Pakistan who start working quite early on. Azhar's story starts this way too.
Hailing from a small district called Shikarpur in Sindh, the little boy came to Karachi with eyes twinkling with dreams and hopes. As soon as he turned 18, Azhar joined ibex. Pakistan which was called TRG back then in 2008.
At that time, he had just moved to this metropolitan city, and had barely completed his basic schooling. His uncle had brought him along, as the company was hiring for an office boy role.
It was a big shift for him, no doubt. A new city. A new life. A new everything.
Like many starting out in such positions, Azhar's responsibilities included handling day-to-day administrative tasks, for example, cleaning, assisting teams, and supporting various operational needs.
Azhar knew one thing very clearly, though: life was tough, but he wanted more from it.
He worked throughout the day. And after work, he went back to his books.
Despite the challenges, he continued his education and successfully completed his high school degree. Looking back today, he smiles at those struggles. But at the time, they were anything but easy.
Two years later, things started to shift.
The administration department entrusted him with a more significant responsibility. Managing transportation services for employees at the head office. It was a small change, but it sparked something bigger in him.
That's when Azhar realized he didn't want to stop there.
He knew he could do more. And so he did.
He decided to pursue a Bachelor's degree in Commerce while working at ibex. Pakistan.
And then came the turning point.
In 2013, the company's then CFO, Syed M. Adnan noticed something in Azhar. The boy's dedication, his willingness to learn, and his ambition to grow. He determined that Azhar was a diamond in the rough. And with just a little training, his potential could shine brightly.
So the CFO offered him an opportunity to train as an accountant.
And that's where the hard work began. For the next eight months, Azhar worked nearly 12 hours a day. He continued his administrative role for nine hours and then spent an additional three hours training with the Finance team.
It wasn't easy.
But he stayed consistent.
During that time, his colleagues and mentors guided him through the world of numbers, spreadsheets, and financial systems. Slowly but surely, he began to understand a completely new side of the business.
At the end of those eight months, Azhar officially transitioned into the Finance team in Karachi as a Junior Accounts Officer. A role he had once never imagined he would be doing.
Today, Azhar stands as an inspiration, not just for those around him, but especially for individuals who are starting from similar positions. His journey is a reminder that no matter where you begin, growth is always possible if you are willing to put in the effort.
He continues to motivate others, especially young talent and support staff, to keep learning, staying consistent, and never giving up despite the odds.
Meeting Azhar and hearing his story brings to mind a powerful quote:
"Dream big. Start small. Act now."
Azhar did exactly that. Now it's your turn to prove yourself!
Interested In Becoming A Customer Agent Like Azhar?
Apply Now At ibex. Pakistan & Build Your Own Story
The Author:
Sana Saleem
Business Analyst
ibex. Pakistan
