From being the NALAIK in a family of educationists to building my own path ✌🏻
Imagine having your ENTIRE family running Pakistan’s education system while you’re chilling with your less than 60% marks in Matric and Inter 😅
Let me paint you a picture – Papa is Deputy Secretary in Ministry of Education, Ami was a teacher, Chachi is a Principal in school, Phupos are teachers, Mamu is a teacher, Maami is at a senior position in Federal Board. Then there is like 3-4 cousins ruling IBCC department. Basically, we’re the education mafia of Pakistan. And then there is me, the certified nalayak choosing the road less taken 😉
Twist: This nalayak became the first one to get an iPhone in the family. First one to go on a foreign honeymoon trip. Sounds fancy, right? But let me tell you what people don’t see – I’m also the first one who struggles EVERY. SINGLE. DAY. I still remember working upstairs during my only sister’s wedding while the whole family was celebrating downstairs. That is entrepreneurship for you – missing life’s precious moments while chasing your dreams.
The reality of being an entrepreneur? There’s no in between. You are either broke or you are rich. Your Instagram shows fancy meetings and trips but nobody sees those sleepless nights, missed family events, and constant pressure behind those posts. Work-life balance? Never heard of it. You’re either working while everyone’s partying or you’re on vacation still stuck to your phone.
In our family, my Chachu(May he rest in peace) was the only one who did business. When he fell ill and had to leave his office, the entire business collapsed because there was no one to take over, no one who understood business. His journey taught me two things – I want to build something that’ll continue running smoothly even if I am not around and I want to inspire and support others to choose entrepreneurship over just secure jobs.
To anyone thinking about this path – if you’re married or planning to get married, make sure your partner knows what they’re signing up for. A supportive spouse isn’t just important, it’s literally make or break.
So here I am, the black sheep who barely passed school, surrounded by a family of education department legends, trying to build something of my own. They say success is the best revenge but honestly? Those 60% marks are still my favorite conversation starter 😎
To all my fellow nalayaks out there breaking family norms – keep pushing. Sometimes the best stories start with “Log kya kahenge” and end with “Log kya dekh rahe hain” ❤️
Originally posted on Facebook on 1 February 2025.
Editor’s note, Oct 2026: my father is now a Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Education.
