Seyed Faiz currently works with Oxfam based in Oxford, UK. He has extensive experience in working in development organisations like Aga Khan Foundation and Oxfam. Currently he directs all aspects of business operations and drives sustainable organisational growth for the sector.
Linkedin : https://www.linkedin.com/in/seyed-faiz-bb11511a/
Q. How has been your journey from IIFM so far?
A. My journey after IIFM has been an exhilarating voyage of self-discovery. Reflecting upon the 25 years that have elapsed since my graduation in 1999, I firmly believe that the Institute bestowed upon me an unwavering intellectual bedrock, charted the course of my career, and granted me invaluable entry into an extraordinary network of accomplished alumni. It was within the hallowed halls of IIFM that I forged lifelong friendships, and I am filled with an immense sense of pride to have been associated with this esteemed institution.
Q. What were some of the key milestones/learning in this journey that you would like to share with us?
A. I strongly urge aspiring IIFMites to approach their career choices with utmost seriousness and contemplation. Delve deep into your passions, identify where your strengths shine brightest, and seek out sectors that promise long-term growth. Embrace a mindset of perpetual learning, a lifelong pursuit of knowledge and development. And above all, harness the tremendous power of our remarkable alumni network, leveraging its invaluable resources to forge your path to success.
Q. What is the most satisfying part in your career?
A. The pinnacle of my career was marked by my tenure with esteemed organizations such as the Aga Khan Foundation and Oxfam, where I had the privilege of serving in incredibly demanding environments across India, South Asia, Central Asia, and Africa. The profound delight derived from collaborating and growing alongside diverse communities, immersing myself in their awe-inspiring cultures, and actively contributing to the betterment of their lives has been a source of immense personal fulfillment.
Q. Has your learning at IIFM helped in shaping how you approach your professional roles?
A. Undoubtedly, IIFM played a pivotal role in molding my foundational perspectives on development. The Institute not only provided me with a comprehensive arsenal of knowledge, expertise, and practical tools to embark upon my professional journey but, more importantly, instilled within me a profound sense of purpose and unwavering confidence to tackle the most arduous challenges within the expansive realm of the development sector.
Q. Who (or what) are the biggest influences or drivers in your careers? What would be your advice to freshers and IIFM graduates who are looking to choose similar sectors/roles.
A. I have been immeasurably enriched by the invaluable guidance and unwavering support bestowed upon me by numerous esteemed faculty members, accomplished alumni, and fellow batch-mates from IIFM. The status of being an IIFM alumnus unlocks a multitude of opportunities effortlessly, opening doors that lead to success. However, the single most influential factor contributing to my modest achievements has been my unyielding pursuit of knowledge and an unwavering determination to thrive, even in the face of the most formidable challenges. I have been an insatiable reader throughout my life, which has not only shaped my character but also honed my communication skills to a razor’s edge.
Apart from what I have said in my response to question 2 above- Never ever give up, always keep learning, and invest in building your network- it always pays back.
Q. How did you decide to go for higher studies post IIFM? And how was the experience?
A. I pursued my MSc at the renowned London School of Economics (LSE), UK, driven by my relentless thirst for knowledge and the desire to leverage a world-class education to propel my career and expand my network. An exceptional honor came my way as I became a recipient of the prestigious Inlaks scholarship, a distinguished group of talented scholars that has profoundly enriched my network. My time at LSE proved to be an enlightening experience, immersing myself in the vibrant cosmopolitan environment of one of the world’s premier institutions, fundamentally altering the trajectory of my professional journey. It provided me with unparalleled opportunities to build connections on a global scale and gain entry into esteemed international organizations. Above all, the distinction of being an LSE alumnus bestows upon me a perpetual badge of honor, an esteemed mark that resonates throughout my life.
Q. What are your favorite memories during your IIFM days?
A. The rains, the verdant greenery, the cherished walks to the mess, the occasional skirmishes with batchmates, our collective worries, and the enduring bonds of friendship—these moments of nostalgia and soulful connection are etched deep within our hearts, destined to remain timeless treasures throughout our lives. The shared field trips we embarked upon together serve as enduring reminders of the enriching experiences we had, further fueling the fires of our cherished memories.
Q. In hindsight, what was the biggest contribution (courses, faculty, library, friends, alumni.. Anything else!!) or take away from IIFM that you think played a critical role in shaping you as an individual or professional?
A. Each one of them contributes in their own unique way. As I reflect upon the faculty members from our time, I now recognize them as dedicated and genuine mentors who deeply cared about our future and wholeheartedly strived to bring out the best in us. Countless alumni have proven to be invaluable pillars of support throughout various stages of my career, transforming into lifelong friends. IIFM serves as a powerful launchpad, but the onus ultimately rests on individual students to seize the abundant resources provided by the institute and sculpt their own path to success. It is a responsibility that must be embraced wholeheartedly.
Q. The best buddies / seniors /faculty at IIFM? Some memorable tidbits that you like to share?
A. i) I resided in the renowned Bamboosa block, and my roommates, Swetan, Ashish, and Subash, have become lifelong family friends. The fondest memories we shared include movie outings on a limited budget, relishing meals at New Market, joyous revelries within our block, and, of course, the unforgettable birthday parties filled with fruit punch, cakes, and dance-filled music.
ii) A field trip to Panna-Chattarpur in M.P alongside five of my batchmates is etched indelibly in my mind. The experience of staying in those remote, dark, and seemingly haunted forest department guest houses, savoring meals cooked on woodstoves, embarking on exhilarating night safaris, and even encountering a bear chase—these are truly extraordinary memories that I will forever cherish.
iii) My profound gratitude goes to my wonderful friend Bharti Joshi and Bhaskar Mitra, both from my senior batch, whose contributions have played a pivotal role in my career growth. I hold dear the cherished association I have with them. A special note of thanks to Pradeep Tharakan, who reached out to me all the way from the United States to provide guidance on admissions abroad. The list of individuals to express gratitude to is seemingly endless, each playing a unique part in shaping my journey.
iv) I got great support from Sandeep Chakravorty, President of AA, early on in my career where he advised me on post-IIFM career path. I am very thankful to him.
Q. As an alumnus, what’s your advice to freshers or those are joining IIFM to get best out of the 2 years there?
A. Embrace these two years with fervor, knowing that the Institute and its expansive network will intricately guide you towards your destined path. Release the burden of excessive worry about your career, for in the embrace of IIFM, you will find solace, reassurance, and the unwavering assurance that your journey will be purposefully guided towards your ultimate destination.
Q. What was your typical day at the work? And how does it look like while you are on a break?
A. I am currently situated at the Oxfam GB Headquarters in Oxford. My workdays is full with an array of meetings, engaging with colleagues hailing from diverse corners of the globe, ranging from country-level teams to regional and global counterparts. These sessions involve delving into reports, offering guidance on programmatic and operational matters, and much more. The bustling cafeteria within Oxfam House serves as a delightful hub for relaxation and socializing. Furthermore, my affection for the grandeur of Oxford University remains steadfast, as I find immense joy in strolling through the picturesque grounds of Magdalen College and along the serene river bank.
Q. And how about weekends, hobbies, family and anything else you want to add?
A. Reading and gardening serve as the two pillars of my cherished hobbies. However, my adventurous spirit extends beyond the confines of my home. I find great pleasure in embarking on a canal trip in Birmingham, witnessing the kaleidoscope of green hues adorning Blenheim Palace in Oxford, indulging in delectable Middle Eastern cuisine along Edgware Road in London, or relishing authentic desi food along Coventry Road. As for my international voyages, the allure of destinations such as Tajikistan, Samarkand, and Bukhara in Uzbekistan, and the captivating landscapes of Kerala in India, rank among my absolute favorites.
Q. Favorite Books, movies, authors?
A. i) “The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying” by Sogyal Rinpoche
ii) “Empires of the Word” by Nicholas Ostler
iii) “The Story of Philosophy” by Will Durant
iv) “All Quiet on the Western Front” by Erich Maria Remarque
v) “Entangled Life” by Melissa van Maasdyk
vi) “The Blind Watchmaker” by Richard Dawkins
vii) “The Dawn of Everything” by David Graeber and David Wengrow
viii) “The World of Islam” by Bernard Lewis
ix) “Autobiography of a Yogi” by Paramahansa Yogananda
x) “Possible Minds” edited by John Brockman
Favorite movies:
i) Lamhe
ii) Casablanca
iii) Lawrence of Arabia
iv) The Godfather
v) The Shawshank Redemption
vi) Gone with the Wind
vii) The Sound of Music
viii) Schindler’s List
ix) The Lord of the War
x) The Bridge on the River Kwai (1957)
Q. IIFM is driven by alumni’s passion and commitments towards its goal. How would you like to contribute to IIFM or IIFM alumni, students? Your engagement with IIFM Placement or OT/SI?
A. i) I am happy to advise students seeking career in development/humanitarian sector or those looking to study abroad.
ii) Visit campus sometime soon and share my thoughts on the curriculum considering fast-changing career environment.
iii) make a pitch for IIFM students seeking entry in international organizations.
Q. What do you think is different at IIFM now vs when you studied there?
A. The IIFM alumni network has grown exponentially, evolving into a formidable force that fills me with immense pride. Witnessing our esteemed alumni harnessing this collective strength for the betterment of our beloved alma mater is truly gratifying. Furthermore, the post-IIFM career landscape has expanded exponentially, offering a vast array of opportunities. Consequently, it is crucial to strategically position and establish connections with diverse sectors to ensure the Institute’s continued success. While the infrastructure has undergone remarkable expansion, my heart remains nostalgic for the untamed, open campus of yesteryears, which holds a special place in my fondest memories.
Q. Any suggestions on who you want to get profiled/interviewed here?
A. If you have not already covered yet- Bharti Joshi PFM 96-98
Bhaskar Mitra PFM 96-98
My batchmates- Sandeep Sengupta, Sunil Mallik, Swetan Sagar and Prakash Kashwan
Dipak Jha 98-2000
Tanmay Chetan 96-98