A Journey from Local Roots to Solving Global Business Challenges with AI
Laraib Khan
Islamabad: Kanwal Aalijah, a young and vibrant woman from Pakistan with bold dreams, has earned global recognition for using artificial intelligence (AI) to solve everyday business problems. Born and raised in Pakistan, she turned a deep curiosity for technology into a powerful career. From modest beginnings to advising international companies, her story is grounded in hard work and heart.
Kanwal’s strength lies in using AI not just to automate, but to solve real issues—helping businesses run better, understand their customers, and grow smartly. She works closely with startups, guiding them in building useful products, leading projects, and creating solutions that matter. Her background in data science and machine learning lets her support both new ventures and large organizations navigating digital change.
But her work is not just about code. Kanwal believes leadership goes beyond managing teams or building smart tools. For her, real leadership means taking responsibility for impact mentoring others, creating opportunities, and building inclusive spaces where young minds thrive. She often builds her teams in Pakistan, giving young professionals the kind of global exposure and hands-on experience that’s hard to find at home.
Her approach is personal. She’s known to stay closely involved in projects, not just as a tech expert, but as someone who cares deeply about people. That care reflects in the teams she builds, the products she helps shape, and the young talent she mentors.
Breaking through as a woman in tech wasn’t easy. Kanwal faced her share of challenges, but she didn’t let them stop her. Instead, she focused on delivering results, and slowly, the world began to take notice. Today, she is a trusted voice in AI strategy, working with global companies to solve business problems that matter.
Her work has earned her awards like the Best Researcher for Interdisciplinary Study in Sustainability Analytics. She has contributed to AI research in areas like urban planning, customer insights, and sentiment analysis highlighting how data, when used wisely, can help design better cities and drive smarter decision-making in business.
One of her standout projects, a consumer insights product, was recognized by both the Dubai Government and the Dubai Future Foundation for its innovation and impact, further solidifying her role as a leader in tech-driven solutions.
Beyond awards and titles, Kanwal stands out for keeping her work grounded. She believes that technology should serve people, not the other way around. Her focus on ethical AI and real-world impact shows in everything she does.
Kanwal continues to push forward, always looking for ways to connect innovation with real life. From her hometown in Pakistan to boardrooms across the globe, she is building a legacy that proves leadership isn’t about where you start, but how far you’re willing to go — and who you bring along with you.
