Lifetime of Achievement: Nabeel Mahmood
Inspired by a deep-rooted passion for understanding how things work, Nabeel Mahmood’s entry into the data centre and technology industries started at a young age. His natural curiosity, which he still carries with him today, has led him to a career exploring the operation background of technology, advocating for, innovating and nurturing his own data centre passions as well as those of other industry C-Level executives.
Grateful that his journey to date has allowed him to become a strong advocate for technological innovation, Mahmood holds great pride in demonstrating how passion and curiosity can lead to a fulfilling career.
“I am a passionate advocate for the transformative power of technology and its potential to create a better, more equitable world,” Mahmood says. “My main interests lie in leveraging advanced technologies to drive meaningful change in society. I hope that by leveraging the power of technology, we can help create a fairer, more equitable future for all.”
With an extensive and diverse career spanning multiple industries and roles, his breadth of experience has equipped Mahmood with a broad and balanced skill set and offered the opportunity of working with diverse teams, something he believes is crucial in today’s ever-evolving workplace.
And this expertise is something he shares with the data centre community and wider technology sector via the Nomad Futurist podcast in a bid to empower and inspire younger generations through exposure to the underlying technologies that power our digital world, while encouraging people worldwide to utilise technology for meaningful change.
Founded in 2021, Nomad Futurist is a non-profit organisation and through the contributions of its supporters, is launching global programmes in partnership with a range of education providers, NGOs and other non-profits committed to educating children in underprivileged communities.
“We have provided a unique global platform that brings together thought leaders and innovators in the data infrastructure sector to drive meaningful, future-focused conversations,” Mahmood shares. “Over the years, we have created a community that fosters innovation and aims to redefine the boundaries of what's possible in the digital world. Our achievements range from facilitating cutting-edge discussions on emerging technology trends to promoting inclusivity and diversity in tech.”
Taking pride in their contribution to the industry's evolution, it's clear to see how tangible Nomad Futurist’s impact has been - and continues to be, with conversations often leading to initiatives that reshape industry practices and standards.
He adds: “We foster an environment that encourages creative problem-solving, pushing the boundaries of traditional technology solutions. This approach has brought about meaningful, industry-wide change as we continuously strive to rethink and reimagine the future of technology.”
And the best way to do this, Mahmood believes, is through equipping the next generation with appropriate skills, knowledge, and tools.
He says: “This is paramount as we navigate through an increasingly digitised and interconnected world, the ability to adapt and thrive depends heavily on one's arsenal of skills and knowledge. The tools we provide to the younger generation can enhance their ability to learn, innovate, and problem-solve. This not only prepares them for future professional challenges but also instils a sense of confidence and autonomy, enabling them to become proactive contributors to society.”
Across his variety of roles, which include being a Board Director for some of the largest names in the technology sector such as SCB Global and United Security Bank, Mahmood highlights how his core mission looking forward remains the same, to continue to push boundaries in technology and leadership, looking towards the horizon of innovation while staying committed to philanthropic efforts and channelling resources into education.
“The mission is to bridge the digital divide and democratise access to quality education and healthcare, particularly in underserved communities around the globe. Hopefully, I can contribute to a more equitable and inclusive future by leveraging technology for social good.”
And that is not an empty promise from Mahmood, with past awards and recognition are a testament to his achievements. Among them include being named as a top influencer and leader industry-wide. He is a frequent speaker at forums and conferences across the globe and his insights on trends in business have been featured in leading publications, leading him to be sought out for advice from start-ups and or F1000 enterprises and being asked to mentor.
Despite his undeniable success, none of the above are what Mahmood acknowledges as his finest achievements.
“My proudest achievement has been the ability to recover from multiple medical, personal, and professional setbacks,” he shares. “The ability to get back on my feet no matter how hard it is continues to motivate me to change and be the change agent. The setbacks and challenges have given me the opportunity for growth, which has helped me become more resilient and adaptable, skills that have been invaluable throughout my life and career.
One of the most inspirational pieces of advice he carries through with him on his rollercoaster career is: ‘Don't be afraid to try new things and make mistakes. That's how we learn and grow’. “This simple yet profound statement has propelled me to step out of my comfort zone and venture into new domains, even when the path seems uncertain,” Mahmood reflects. “I have passed on this advice to many of my colleagues and mentees, encouraging them to embrace change, experiment with new ideas, and perceive failures not as setbacks but as stepping stones to success.”
