Ali Zain

Ali Zain is the Co-founder and CEO of the Social Innovation Academy (SIA), where he leads a bold vision to empower the next generation of changemakers through entrepreneurship education and community-rooted innovation. With more than nine years of diverse experience across Pakistan, the United States, and Germany, Ali has shaped and delivered transformative programs that tackle some of the most pressing social and environmental challenges of our time, from climate resilience and inclusive education to gender equity and public health. Under his leadership, SIA has grown into a national force for social innovation, launching 25+ high-impact initiatives and convening landmark events such as the International Summit on Building a Thriving Social Enterprise Ecosystem in Pakistan.

Ali is a DAAD Postgraduate Scholar, and he holds a master’s degree in International Education Management (INEMA) from Germany and Egypt. As an Atlas Corps Fellow, he contributed to inclusion and diversity team and supported anti-racism initiatives in New York City’s social work schools, reflects his deep commitment to equity and inclusive leadership. At heart, Ali is a builder of people and systems. He is especially devoted to nurturing local social entrepreneurs in Pakistan and beyond, helping them develop scalable, sustainable social ventures that uplift communities from within. With a human-centered approach and unwavering belief in the power of grassroots leadership, Ali continues to inspire and equip the next wave of innovators driving meaningful, lasting change.