A brief introduction

Life has thrown its fair share of challenges my way, but instead of letting them break me, they’ve fueled my fire. I’m Raza Dotani, — a resilient soul risen from the ashes of life’s trials, people’s betrayals, and societal adversities,

Raza Dotani IVLP
During IVLP (2015) Program at the U.S. Mission to the U.N. Headquarter, New York.

My path has taken me from traditional journalism to the exciting world of entrepreneurship. Today, I’m a multi-skilled digital nomad, running a digital agency and several websites. As a freelance digital solutionist, I help businesses of all sizes thrive online and help professionals build strong personal brands.

My entrepreneurial spirit has set me free from the shackles of the soul-crushing conventional employment. You know the one—the grinding 9-to-5, reporting to bosses who stifle creativity, the same old routine every day, and constantly checking the calendar for the next weekend. This newfound independence allows me to explore the world on my own terms, as a modern-day nomad with a laptop and a plan. With the freedom of a bird in the wind, location is up to me, and the schedule is mine—that’s the beauty of being your own boss! No constraints hold me back, making this a truly liberating experience that opens doors to endless possibilities.

Being an introverted extrovert by nature, I find solace in my own world yet exude energy, charm, and empathy when surrounded by close friends, family, and special ones. When I’m not strategising online success, you might find me curled up with a non-fiction book, laughing at a comedy show, or indulging in a late-night walk with the soothing sounds of Islamabad’s rain.

My musical taste spans Urdu, Pashto, Persian classical, and English pop genres. I savour winter rains, engage in late-night walks on Islamabad’s peaceful alleys, and participate in intellectual conversations over traditional Pakistani tea.

I am deeply influenced by the poetry of Ghani Khan and Faiz Ahmed Faiz, the Sufism of Baba Bhulle Shah and Maulana Rumi, the philosophy of non-violence by Bacha Khan, and the teachings of Maulana Wajihuddin. I staunchly support feminism and advocate for women’s leadership. Admirable figures like the late Asma Jahangir, Malala Yousafzai, Muniba Mazari, Iman Mazari, Kishore Naheed, and Farida Shaheed inspire me.

My personal story is a testament to resilience, learned the hard way—not only to survive but also to live boldly in inhospitable conditions.

As an activist, my mission is to eradicate religious, political, and social intolerance and extremism, promote gender equality, and champion women’s empowerment, particularly in terms of financial independence. Off screens, I bear the educational expenses of a few deserving children, which brings me true happiness and peace of mind.

As a maverick blogger, my writings cover social issues, activist causes, and topics such as youth awareness, religious and social tolerance, feminism, freedom of expression, non-Muslim rights, and digital safety. Additionally, I share insights and guidance on digital transformation, artificial intelligence, and contemporary developments through professional blogging.

Follow my escapades on social media (search “rdotani” — it’s my username on all platforms!). I share insights about activism, commentary on political matters (but always with a cup of tea and a healthy dose of humor!), my favorite book recommendations, and engage in conversations with like-minded people. — No pressure to be formal, just come hang out and see the world through my eyes! (P.S. Bonus points for thoughtful discussions and witty banter!)

—— Raza,
Islamabad | March 4, 2023