On November 23, 2024, PACE College of Advanced Studies, Pakistan’s first entrepreneurship-focused institution, proudly hosted the grand finale of the 4th Junior CEO Challenge at PC Hotel Karachi.
This flagship competition brought together over 2,000 aspiring young entrepreneurs from across the country, showcasing their innovative ideas and leadership skills. Aga Khan University Examination Board (AKUEB) CEO Dr. Naveed Yusuf attended the event as Chief Guest. In his keynote address, Dr. Yusuf emphasized the importance of entrepreneurship education to equip the youth with skills to shape the future of Pakistan.
The program also featured two engaging panel discussions: “Gen Z Leaders: Shaping the Future of Entrepreneurship” and “AI and Automation: Opportunities and Threats for Startups”. These sessions explored leadership in the digital age and how technological advancements can impact business plans.
Among the highlights of the pageant was the impressive journey of finalist Ayesha Qaiser from Kashmir who traveled to Karachi to compete in the top 20. His determination and creativity exemplified the spirit of challenge.
Madeeha Saleem of Habib Girls School (Category A) and Zara Urij of Bahria College Karsaz (Category B) won cash and non-cash prizes to help turn their ideas into reality. The Junior CEO Challenge, conceived by PACE founders Adeel Darwish and Wazir Ahmed, continues to promote youth innovation across the country. Ms. Huma Jabeen gracefully hosted the event as Master of Ceremonies, adding energy and professionalism to the proceedings.
The Junior CEO Challenge Final, a prestigious event showcasing the entrepreneurial talent of young minds, was made even more impactful thanks to the generous support of its Gold Sponsors, namely SHIELD Pakistan, Digi Khata and Premier Cables. These sponsors played an important role in fostering innovation, leadership and creativity among the young CEO aspirants.