Pakistan Tahir Mehmood Yousafzai

A career rooted in experience

“I grew up in a Pakistan-administered Kashmir village near the Line of Control (LoC), where people still live in stone houses, surrounded by a close-knit family and community,” explains Tahir. “Those early years shaped my values of hard work, patience, and gratitude, which still guide me in my personal and professional life today.”

After earning a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering (B-Tech, Hons) from the University of Peshawar, Tahir began working with various national and international organisations – including Save the Children International and Islamic Relief Pakistan – focusing on water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) and construction projects.

His decision to join the humanitarian sector aligns with his lifelong mission to serve communities like his own because of his deeply personal connection to the realities of conflict and loss.

“I belong to a disputed territory. I have seen my people suffering from a lack of basic needs and enduring daily cross-border fire between Pakistan and India. So, I decided to serve people like us during disasters.”

Engineering impact

Today, Tahir works as an Associate Construction Management Engineer with CTG, supporting projects that make a tangible difference in the lives of vulnerable communities. “My day-to-day responsibilities include planning and supervising construction and WASH activities, conducting HSE and daily inspections for quality and quantity checks,” he explains. “A typical day in the field starts with visiting project sites and meeting the community, where I spend time listening to their concerns and suggestions to help me understand their real needs.’ 

Over the years, Tahir’s work has placed him at the heart of some of the most devastating disasters in Pakistan’s recent history, including the 2005 earthquake, the 2008 Battle of Swat, and the floods of 2010 and 2023. Each experience left a deep mark on him both personally and professionally.  

“I met families who had lost everything – their homes, livelihoods, and even loved ones,” he shares. “While working with them, I realised how much hope and strength people can find in even the smallest support. Seeing their resilience, and knowing that my work – whether it was building shelters, providing clean water, or supporting communities – helped them stand back on their feet has left a lasting impact on me. These moments continue to inspire me to serve with dedication.” 

Staying motivated through faith and purpose

Despite the difficult conditions, Tahir’s motivation remains unwavering: “I stay motivated because I see the difference my work makes in people’s lives,” he says. “Even with difficulties, the prayers and gratitude from families give me strength. For me, this work is not just a job, but a way to serve humanity and please Allah.” 

Outside of work, he finds balance by spending time with family. He also enjoys playing physical games like cricket and badminton.  

“If you keep humanity first, work with honesty, and stay strong in difficult times, this field will give you both learning and satisfaction,” he says.  

Read more stories from the field here.