KARACHI: Seven Pakistanis have been named in Forbes Asia’s 30 Under 30 list for 2026, highlighting the country’s growing footprint in innovation, entertainment, science and entrepreneurship across Asia.
The annual ranking by Forbes recognises young leaders under 30 who are driving change through creativity, business leadership and breakthrough ideas in their respective fields. This year’s inclusion of Pakistani talent reflects a widening global recognition of the country’s emerging professionals.
Actor Hania Aamir was among the most prominent names featured in the list by Forbes, noted for her expanding influence beyond television. Widely followed on social media, she has led several hit drama productions and also serves as a United Nations Women’s National Goodwill Ambassador. She is also expected to appear in Jo Bachay Hain Sang Samait Lo, Pakistan’s first original Netflix series.
Filmmaker and visual artist Saman Kamran was also recognised by Forbes Asia 30 Under 30 for her socially driven work, including her internationally acclaimed short film The Bed She Made, which was screened at the Busan International Film Festival.
In science and technology, researcher Maheera Ghani earned a spot for her contributions to healthcare innovation and semiconductor research, along with her advocacy work in STEM through WinSci Pakistan.
Entrepreneurs Muhammad Furqan Karim Kidwai and Sarfraz Shahid Hussain, founders of Pluton AI, were acknowledged for developing automation tools for financial management, while Karachi-based founder Syed Ismail was listed for his startup Saraaf, which modernises commodity trading systems across Asia.
The recognition by Forbes Asia underscores Pakistan’s rising presence in global talent ecosystems across multiple sectors.
