It takes sheer passion and commitment in achieving your goals and ambitions. The feeling of achievement and self-accomplishment is so addictive that it makes you hungry for more and you don’t want to stop. The same is the case with the ambitious CEO of Programmers Force, Mr. Khurram A.
Programmer Force is one of the most reputable software firms in Pakistan, specializing in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning technologies. It is a FinTech-based company, developing cutting-edge innovations to create advancements in the financial sector. They started their journey in 2016 with 2 members in a small office in Johar Town, and now comprise a team of 400+ dedicated and highly skilled employees. They now have 5 offices in Pakistan and 3 offices internationally. The heights they have reached today are remarkable.
To date, the firm has created numerous job opportunities for people from various backgrounds. The company has been successful in building a great reputation in the tech industry and has now become a dream company for every IT graduate in the country.
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What inspired you to name your company as Programmers Force?
“I believe that employees are the most important assets of an organization, so as a tech company, my team consists of most programmers, developers, and software engineers. They are the back-bone of my company, so our “Programmers” are our main “Driving Force”. Hence, the name, “Programmers Force.”
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What were your vision and purpose while starting this company?
He passionately answered this one. “I always had the vision to do something for the people of my country. This motivates me to create multiple opportunities for them. I want to improve the current technological ecosystem of Pakistan. I want people to know that there are now more advanced and reliable ways to help businesses grow. I not only want to provide job-based opportunities, but also pave a way for other startups to do as well.” The answer seemed like it was definitely for the better future of the people of Pakistan.
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How did you manage to grow this company from scratch to how big it is today?
“Everything we have done here is by the blessings of ALLAH. We did our part by working hard, but ALLAH is the One who guided us throughout our journey and it is because of Him that we are where we are today. I’ve always believed in my abilities but I never forget that we are here only because of Him. I would like to quote one of my favorite verses from the Holy Quran here. ALLAH says in Surah Najm, “And that man does not get anything but what he strives for.” I’m glad that we gave our best and He blessed us with success. ALHAMDULILLAH!” His humble reply really left a deep impression on me.
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What is the best memory you have while working at Programmers Force?
“My best memory was working late nights with my team members, at the beginning of our company. We used to learn, experiment, teach, and support each other. We all had a similar ideology of giving our best, and after spending some time together, we developed a similar taste for food as well. We used to work, eat, and even sleep in the office, at times. I think when you are spending quality time with the right people, every day is a memorable one.” He laughed a little while answering this. His cheerful personality can brighten up anyone’s day.
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What is one strategy that has helped you grow your company?
“Valuing the opinions of my colleagues. I always gave preference to their opinions and suggestions. This really helped in building the trust factor we needed to grow this company to the heights we estimated. ”
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As an entrepreneur, what is the one thing you repeat over and over again and would recommend others to do as well?
“Brainstorming”, he replied. “There is no limit to your thoughts and imagination. You should always take out time to brainstorm for ideas as this will not only give you new ideas but enhance your existing ones as well.”
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How do you motivate yourself on the job?
“I believe one should only pursue a career in which they’re really interested. You have to daily remind yourself, why are you here in the first place? I personally think this factor can fuel your ambitions and motivate you to be the person you want to be. If I talk about myself, I never have to convince myself to come to work, this is something I want to do. If you’re pursuing a career in which your passion lies, you don’t have to look for external motivation. It just comes from within.”
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What does your typical day look like and how do you make it productive?
“My typical day is nothing extraordinary, We’re all playing our part in this organization to make it nothing but the best and by the grace of ALLAH, we are excelling. In order to be productive, firstly, I always clear my head and focus my energy on accomplishing one task at a time. What I also do which always helps me with productivity is making a to-do list, and start focusing on one task at a time and then move forward from there. You can accomplish anything and everything, once you set your mind to it.”
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What are your thoughts on health and fitness?
“I believe that a person can only have a healthy mind if he works on making his body healthy. A person should always have control over his diet, but cheat days are a must.”
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I noticed your love for reading books through your social profile. What is your favorite book?
He had a different glow while answering this question. “Every person who likes to read has multiple favorites, so I can’t give you a specific answer. But one of my favorites is “The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho,” definitely worth reading. Its context is about chasing your dreams while risking everything and that is sort of what every entrepreneur is actually doing. It definitely should be a part of everyone’s reading bucket list.”
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What advice would you give to the new generation?
“Firstly, never lose hope and always believe in ALLAH. Secondly, always listen to people but remember to follow your heart. It will take you right where you actually belong. Yes, the road might be bumpy and full of difficulties, at times, but those difficulties will only make you stronger. Lastly, never forget the people, who helped you to become the person who you are today.” This answer left a mark on me, and I knew straight away that I would remember this advice for the rest of my life.