Maham Hassan
Director & Technical Architect, Cloud-1
📍Dubai, UAE
If you could describe yourself in one word, what would that be and why?
Committed.
It has been a journey marked by ongoing commitment to achieving excellence. Back in 2013, when Salesforce was relatively unknown in Pakistan, I made a conscious decision to pursue a career in this emerging field. Despite the limited awareness and support around me, I remained steadfast in my determination, eventually emerging as one of the pioneering women working in Salesforce within the region.
My commitment extended beyond personal success; it encompassed a dedication to continuous learning and the empowerment of others. Recognizing the importance of knowledge-sharing, I took it upon myself to not only deepen my own expertise but also to impart that knowledge and mentor new talent entering the Salesforce ecosystem.
Through countless hours of study, hands-on experience, and mentorship, I honed my skills and navigated the challenges that came my way. And as I progressed in my journey, I made it a priority to uplift others, helping them unlock their potential and thrive in their own Salesforce careers.
In this pursuit of excellence, my commitment has remained unwavering. It is this dedication to learning, sharing, and nurturing talent that has not only shaped my own success but also contributed to the growth of the Salesforce community in Pakistan. And as I continue on this journey, I am driven by the belief that true fulfillment lies not just in personal achievements, but in the collective success and advancement of all those around me.
Pledge 1% provides a framework for businesses to do good. Do you think it’s important for today’s corporate leaders to prioritize social impact? If so, why?
In today's corporate landscape, prioritizing social impact is not just admirable but essential. The reasons behind this imperative are manifold. Firstly, companies bear a responsibility to contribute positively to society, as doing so not only enhances their reputation but also fosters trust among customers, employees, and communities alike.
Furthermore, corporate leaders who embrace social responsibility are better positioned to attract and retain top talent. In an era where the younger workforce seeks meaning and purpose in their professional lives, companies that champion social impact resonate more deeply with employees, leading to higher retention rates and a more engaged workforce.
Moreover, prioritizing social impact and giving back to the community isn't just a moral obligation; it's a strategic advantage. By actively engaging in initiatives that benefit the communities they serve, companies can cultivate robust, enduring relationships that underpin long-term success and sustainability.
In essence, integrating social impact into corporate strategy isn't just a nicety—it's a business imperative that drives positive change and fosters meaningful connections within and beyond the organization.
Do you give back to the community with your team and work? If so, what does this look like?
Giving back to Community has always been close to my heart. The inspiration struck in 2019 when my inbox flooded with requests for Salesforce mentorship and guidance. I realized the potential to reach a broader audience and thus conceived a plan to give back on a larger scale.
This led to the creation of Cloud-1, a Salesforce Consulting Partner company dedicated to refining professionals embarking on Salesforce careers or transitioning from other tech stacks. Since its inception, Cloud-1 has proudly nurtured 42 certified Trailblazers who are actively contributing to our community.
Additionally, I founded the Trailblazer Community Group in Lahore with the vision of fostering unity and providing support for learning and problem-solving. Within this group, I initiated the Code HERoes program aimed at empowering returning mothers and young women to fulfill their aspirations in Salesforce ecosystem. With the dedicated support of my team at Cloud-1, this mentorship initiative has strengthened our circle of giving back, making it more impactful and fulfilling for all involved.
What’s the best piece of advice you've ever received?
Never Give Up!
This year’s International Women’s Day themes are focused on investing in women and inspiring inclusion. What can we do to make today’s workplaces more equitable and inclusive for women?
Equal Pay - Ensure pay equity by conducting regular audits to identify and address any gender pay gaps.
Establishing onsite childcare facilities can greatly alleviate the burden on working mothers. By providing a safe and nurturing environment for children within the workplace premises, mothers can focus on their tasks with peace of mind. Companies can also provide Lactation Rooms & Flexible work arrangement for Women.
What advice do you have for women who are just starting their career?
Discover Your Worth. The first step is to understand yourself—your strengths, aspirations, and life goals. Take the time to pinpoint exactly what you want to achieve. There are countless career paths available, but it's crucial to align them with your dreams.
Discover Your Worth.
Be proactive in seeking out opportunities that resonate with your ambitions. Stay informed and attentive to your field of interest. Embrace learning opportunities and stay focused on honing your skills. Don't let impostor syndrome derail your progress.
Challenges are inevitable, especially for women in the industry. Whether it's societal norms, balancing motherhood, or personal struggles, remember to stay resilient. Never underestimate your capabilities—persevere and believe in yourself. You have what it takes to succeed.
What are you looking forward to this year? Are there any goals (personal or professional), activities, or experiences you are excited about?
This year, I'm excited to extend my business operations into the Middle East—a region I'm deeply passionate about. Alongside this endeavor, I'm also dedicated to preparing for the CTA Board Review. I'm putting in the hard work and determination needed to achieve success in both endeavors.
