Reflecting on her recent TEDx talk at Forman Christian College University (FCCU), Maryyam Qasim Khan shared insights on her journey and the transformative power of her MNL model—Mentorship, Network, and Leadership. The talk, titled "The MNL Model: How Mentorship, Network, and Leadership Can Help You Succeed," delved into the principles that have shaped her remarkable career from humble beginnings to notable accomplishments in academia and corporate leadership.
Maryyam's journey began with teaching Montessori to second graders, an experience that laid the foundation for her dedication to education and mentorship. Her path was not linear; it involved navigating various roles and challenges, from painting silk dupattas to giving tuitions. Each of these experiences contributed to her growth and resilience, culminating in her development of the MNL formula: (Mentorship + Network) x Leadership.
This formula, honed through years of personal and professional experiences and enriched by the guidance of mentors, has been instrumental in shaping Maryyam's career. She emphasized that mentorship provides invaluable support and knowledge, networking opens doors to opportunities, and leadership drives the ability to seize those opportunities and make impactful decisions.
One of the pinnacle moments of Maryyam's career was speaking at the United Nations, a testament to her dedication and influence. However, she underscored that it is the countless small victories along the way that truly define success. These victories, each a step towards greater achievements, highlight the importance of perseverance and the cumulative power of consistent effort.
Maryyam expressed her gratitude for the support and engagement of the TEDx FCCU audience, whose enthusiasm reaffirmed the significance of sharing stories and empowering others. She emphasized that sharing experiences and insights can inspire others to pursue their dreams and overcome their challenges.
As the Vice President of the South Asian Women Development Forum (SAWDF) in Pakistan, Maryyam has applied the MNL model to benefit women's businesses and their overall development and empowerment. Through her leadership and commitment, she has provided women with the essential assets they need to succeed. Mentorship programs have equipped women with the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in their ventures. Networking opportunities have opened doors to new markets and collaborations, while strong leadership has guided and supported their journeys.
Maryyam's efforts in fostering women's entrepreneurship and development have had a significant impact, empowering women to achieve economic independence and contribute meaningfully to their communities. Her work with SAWDF has been pivotal in creating an environment where women can access the resources, support, and opportunities they need to succeed.
In her TEDx talk, Maryyam highlighted the importance of resilience and determination, drawing from her own experiences to illustrate the power of the MNL model. She concluded with a heartfelt thanks to everyone who has supported her journey, emphasizing that success is a collective effort built on the foundation of mentorship, networking, and leadership.
Maryyam's story is a powerful testament to the transformative power of the MNL model and its potential to drive success and empowerment for individuals and communities alike. Through her dedication and vision, she continues to inspire and lead, embodying the principles she advocates.
