The Lifelong Learner
In the heart of Srinagar, India, amidst the whispers of history, Yunis Lone Ahmad’s story began at the esteemed Burn Hall, a Christian missionary school. Here, under the shade of diverse perspectives, bloomed a young mind with an insatiable curiosity for knowledge. It was a curiosity that would propel him on a remarkable journey of resilience and innovation.
His academic prowess was evident early on. By 1996, Yunis had conquered both Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Engineering from the prestigious BITS Pilani. This solid foundation became the springboard for his future accomplishments. Yet, for Yunis, education was a lifelong adventure. Even as he embarked on a successful corporate career, a nascent fascination with Artificial Intelligence, a field in its early stages during his student days, beckoned him further. Years later, in 2017, he enrolled in a postgraduate program at IIIT Hyderabad, a testament to his unwavering commitment to continuous learning.
Yunis’s professional trajectory mirrored his academic zeal. Starting at TCS in 1996, he scaled the corporate ladder with impressive agility, holding pivotal positions at HCL Tech, Fidelity Investments, IBM, Deloitte, and Tech Mahindra. Each role was a crucible, forging his leadership skills and strategic vision. His rise to Vice President of Technology at Deloitte, where he commanded a team of 400, stands as a monument to his ability to inspire and lead. Yet, a deeper purpose beckoned.
A spark ignited during his engineering days, fueled by a project on traffic networks and an optimization algorithm thesis, became a burning passion. This fascination with AI found its home at Managexe, a Canadian startup. Here, Yunis wasn’t just an employee; he was a mentor, a lighthouse for aspiring AI experts. The workshops and mentorship programs he conducted weren’t simply about imparting technical skills; they were about passing on the torch of perseverance and lifelong learning, values he himself embodied.
Managexe is different from your typical firm. They are rebels, blending cutting-edge research with a practical approach. Their toolbox boasts complex techniques like Reinforcement Learning and Transformers, which they use to create groundbreaking solutions. Here, Yunis thrives, championing critical thinking, continuous learning, and a collaborative spirit.
Life hasn’t been without its challenges. Yunis has faced detours, both personal and professional. But through it all, resilience has become his compass. He champions a balanced approach, advocating authenticity and empathy in every interaction.
Business, for Yunis, is more than just a paycheck; it’s a driving force. He emphasizes the importance of proactive networking and building strong relationships. Yet, his true passion resides in the magic of technology, particularly AI.
The pandemic couldn’t dim his spirit. While juggling his PhD, he battled COVID-19 not once, but twice. Yet, he persevered, his focus unwavering. This dedication extends beyond his work. Yunis conducts robotics and AI/ML workshops in India, equipping students with the skills they need to thrive in the age of automation.
His success isn’t a stroke of luck. It’s a tapestry woven from perseverance, talent, and an insatiable thirst for knowledge. He champions the importance of trust, effective communication, and teamwork. His impressive accolades – IBM Certified Senior Manager, PMI PMP Certification, Phoenix Best Market Maker at Tech Mahindra, and the prestigious CTO of the Year 2023-24 from Indian Achievers Forum – are testaments to his expertise.
But Yunis’s achievements go beyond certifications. He boasts a proven track record of successful IT deliveries spanning 25 years. He wasn’t just good; he’s exceptional, consistently a top performer at Fidelity Investments and Tech Mahindra, receiving outstanding performer awards two years in a row at both places. Notable achievements include the successful implementation of the Global Pricing Workstation at Fidelity Investments and numerous banking system implementations at IBM and TCS. Yunis also leads significant projects in Deloitte Audit and delivers large programs in professional services with Tech Mahindra.
As Yunis looks toward the future, his focus on the ethical considerations surrounding the development of autonomous systems is particularly noteworthy. His belief in the necessity of global cooperation to address the potential pitfalls of AI advancements positions him as a thought leader in this ever-evolving field
Yunis Lone Ahmad’s story isn’t a resume; it’s an odyssey. It’s a roadmap for navigating the ever-changing world of technology, a testament to the power of resilience, and a call for responsible advancement. It’s the story of a man who turns his passion into purpose, inspiring others along the way.
CAPTION
Yunis Lone Ahmad has seamlessly turned his passion into a powerful purpose, creating an environment where innovation thrives, and the mindset of a true visionary uplifts everyone. With a career spanning leading global companies like TCS, HCL Tech, Fidelity Investments, IBM, Deloitte, and Tech Mahindra, Yunis has consistently driven transformative change in the field of AI and emerging technologies. Dive deep into the inspirational story of this lifelong learner and discover how his dedication to mentoring and technological advancement is shaping the future in Passion Vista’s latest edition of Most Admired Global Indians Of 2024!
