Hashaam Asif
2025-2026 University of Chicago Scholar
Pakistan
Founder, Hunar Se Rozgar and Former Public Servant, Government of Pakistan
Tackling inequality of opportunity and multidimensional poverty in Pakistan by providing digital skills, access to capital, coaching, and community
Muhammad Hashaam Asif is the founder of Hunar Se Rozgar (HSR), a social enterprise on a mission to create an equal and equitable Pakistan that works for all Pakistanis, empowering them to realize their full potential and shape their lives on their own terms. HSR offers free online training and coaching in high-demand digital skills, opening doors to earn income from anywhere, anytime. What began as an upskilling program for women has grown into a thriving community where people from all walks of life gain marketable skills, confidence, and financial independence, enhancing economic mobility and agency. Through the Scholars program, Hashaam plans to scale HSR by piloting different funding models to make the enterprise financially self-sustaining, integrating access to capital and digital technologies, and developing structured pathways for employment and entrepreneurship—building a holistic economic empowerment ecosystem.
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More About the Scholars Program
More About the Scholars Program
The Obama Foundation Scholars program gives rising leaders from around the world who are already making a difference in their communities the opportunity to take their work to the next level.
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