For over two decades, the name Zia Chishti has echoed across Pakistan’s technology landscape not just as an entrepreneur but as a trailblazer who proved that global-scale innovation can be built from Pakistan. The man behind Align Technology, TRG, and Afiniti has done what once felt impossible: create multi-billion-dollar companies, employ tens of thousands, and redefine Pakistan’s place in the global technology economy.

Few entrepreneurs anywhere let alone in Pakistan have achieved this level of impact. Chishti has done it not once, but repeatedly, each time raising the bar for what Pakistani tech leaders can aspire to.

Reimagining What’s Possible

Chishti’s story is one of foresight, determination, and execution at scale:

• Align Technology transformed dentistry worldwide with Invisalign, replacing traditional braces with clear, patient-friendly solutions.
• Afiniti pioneered AI-driven customer experience, pairing humans and technology to deliver unprecedented efficiency.
• TRG became Pakistan’s largest technology-sector employer and exporter, growing into a $2+ billion powerhouse under his leadership.

These companies didn’t just succeed commercially; they built skills, created opportunity, and put Pakistani talent on the world stage.

Resilience Through Challenges

No visionary path is without obstacles. Chishti faced politically motivated allegations abroad — attempts to undermine his achievements and harm Pakistan’s tech credibility. Yet, across Pakistan and the UK, every accusation was proven baseless. Courts reaffirmed his integrity and the legitimacy of his business empire.

His response was classic Chishti: calm, factual, forward-looking. Instead of distraction, he doubled down on innovation and growth.

The Comeback of TRG

Now, Chishti returns to TRG, the company he once guided from Rs 10 per share to over Rs 180 — before a subsequent board saw its value collapse to Rs 55. The Sindh High Court has exposed massive fraud by the previous leadership, ordering new board elections and paving the way for Chishti’s return.

His vision for TRG is bold yet grounded:

• $1 billion+ in technology exports within two years.
• 100,000+ new tech jobs for Pakistanis.

For a country long struggling to scale its tech workforce, this ambition could redefine the industry’s trajectory.

Innovation Beyond Borders

Even as TRG struggled, Chishti continued to innovate. He became a key advisor to Isbei, Pakistan’s leading artificial intelligence company — now a dominant exporter of AI solutions and a major player in China’s technology markets. His approach remains the same: world-class technology, operational excellence, and global opportunities for local talent.

A Blueprint for the Next Generation

Chishti’s story carries an important lesson: setbacks – even engineered ones – cannot define true achievement. Resilience, integrity, and long-term vision always outlast temporary challenges.

For young Pakistani entrepreneurs, his journey proves that global tech empires can be built from this part of the world — and that integrity can triumph over adversity.

Looking Forward

As Chishti takes the helm of TRG again, investor confidence is returning, markets are responding, and global partners are re-engaging. More than a corporate comeback, this is about proving – once again – that Pakistan can produce world-class technology companies capable of shaping industries worldwide.

Zia Chishti is not just returning – he’s leading a new chapter for Pakistan’s technology sector, one defined by resilience, scale, and global impact.