In response to the growing mental health challenges affecting over 24 million individuals in Pakistan, the Centre for Entrepreneurial Development (CED) at the Institute of Business Administration (IBA) Karachi, in collaboration with Synapse – Pakistan Neuroscience Institute, hosted an insightful event titled “Crucial Conversations: Stories of Impact.” The initiative aimed to explore the intersection of leadership, entrepreneurship, and emotional well-being.
Opening Dialogue: Setting the Stage for Change
Dr. Lalarukh Ejaz, Director of IBA-CED, inaugurated the session by highlighting three primary objectives: initiating genuine conversations, identifying actionable opportunities, and inspiring innovative approaches to mental health challenges.
Panel Discussion: “Roots of Impact: Purpose, Pressure & Perspective”
Moderated by Dr. Ayesha Mian, psychiatrist and founder of Synapse, this panel featured esteemed figures such as Dr. Akbar Zaidi (Executive Director, IBA), Mushtaq Chhapra (Founder, The Citizens Foundation), and Dr. Salimah Walani (Dean, Aga Khan University School of Nursing). The discussion delved into the emotional toll of leadership, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness, vulnerability, and value-driven decision-making in building resilient institutions.
Keynote Address: Strengthening Support Systems
Dr. Rüdiger Lotz, Consul General of Germany in Karachi, delivered a keynote titled “Strengthening Entrepreneurial Support Systems for an Emotionally Healthy Society.” He underscored the necessity of cross-sectoral partnerships and systemic support structures to empower individuals, particularly the youth, in navigating emotional challenges in today’s volatile environment.
Entrepreneurial Insights: “Thriving While Building”
The final panel, moderated by Dr. Usman Nazir of IBA, focused on the mental health struggles faced by entrepreneurs in high-growth, high-pressure environments. Panelists included Dr. Ahson Rabbani (ChildLife Foundation), Ammar Jangbarwala (MyWater Middle East), and Sukaina Abbas (Enchanté Jewellery), who shared personal narratives of burnout, resilience, and the coping strategies they’ve adopted on their entrepreneurial journeys.
Through candid discussions and shared experiences, the ‘Crucial Conversations’ event illuminated the human side of leadership and entrepreneurship, advocating for a more empathetic and supportive approach to mental health in professional settings.
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