The English Language Proficiency for Academic and Professional Achievement Committee of the Pakistan US Alumni Network (PUAN) Karachi Chapter held a remarkable Session Series Symposium on June 21, 2024, at Lincoln Corner at Pakistan American Cultural Centre, Fatima Jinnah Road, Karachi.
The event, masterfully organized by Ms. Sobia Nosheen Saleh, Executive Board member of PUAN Karachi Chapter and Convener of The English Language Proficiency for Academic and Professional Achievement Committee, highlighted the transformative power of English proficiency.
The symposium kicked off with an enlightening masterclass titled “Crafting Stories, Connecting Worlds through Film and Social Media.” This session featured two distinguished experts: Tasawar Ul Karim Baig, a documentary filmmaker and broadcast journalist, and Imran Khan, a senior graphic designer, animator, and video editor. Baig shared profound insights into the role of visual storytelling in bridging cultural divides, while Khan demonstrated innovative techniques in animation and video editing, enhancing narrative creation on social media platforms. Both speakers emphasized the significance of leveraging film and social media to craft compelling stories that resonate across diverse audiences.
The event continued with a dynamic panel discussion, “The English Advantage – Paving the Way to Achievement.” Moderated adeptly by Rahmeen Urooj Zaidi, the panel included following six esteemed professionals.
Ambar N Sajid: An educationist currently teaching English at Beaconhouse School System, with extensive international engagement in TESOL and ELT; Fizza Abbas, a freelance journalist, award-winning poet, and author with a rich background in literary and social initiatives; Imran Khan, a senior graphic designer, animator, and video editor, also serving as a lead designer at a software house; Ubaid Ur Rehman Khan, Unit Head – SBP Coordination and Regulatory Compliance at UBL, with expertise in financial regulations; Tasawar Ul Karim Baig, a filmmaker with over a decade of international experience in documentary and broadcast journalism; and Noman Shah, Founder of “I Can Voice,” co-founder of Charity Grocer, and a professional social worker.
The panellists collectively underscored the critical role of English language proficiency in achieving academic and professional success. They highlighted how mastering English has opened doors to global opportunities, enhanced their careers, and enabled them to make significant contributions in their respective fields.
The symposium concluded with a heartfelt gratitude towards the participants, panellists, and especially the moderator, Rahmeen Urooj Zaidi, for her exceptional handling of the discussion. The event was hailed as a resounding success, showcasing the importance of English language proficiency in attaining academic and professional goals. Attendees left with practical knowledge and a renewed sense of inspiration to harness their English skills for future endeavours.
The collective efforts of the committee members, under the guidance of Ms. Sobia Nosheen Saleh, were instrumental in promoting this key area of development, highlighting the impact of such initiatives in the community. This symposium not only illuminated the power of English proficiency but also demonstrated the potential for such platforms to foster growth and achievement among individuals in various professional spheres.