In a story that inspires resilience and cross-cultural leadership, Pakistani-Canadian Altamash “Alt” Haider has been knighted by the Government of the Philippines with the Knight First Class, Order of Rizal — one of the nation’s highest honors, rarely granted to foreign nationals. The award recognizes lives dedicated to service, education, and nation-building in the spirit of Dr. José Rizal.
Born in Karachi on October 5, 2001, Haider studied at The CAS School and volunteered at SIUT before moving to Canada in 2013 for his education. At an instance during his high school days at Haider recalls walking into a McDonald’s restaurant, résumé in hand, determined to take his first step into Canada’s workforce. “I just showed up, ready to work,” he shares. “They interviewed me right there — and hired me on the spot.” His first position was as a cleaner — a role he embraced with pride and discipline, and one that introduced him to Filipino colleagues who shaped his lifelong passion for intercultural understanding and youth empowerment.
From those humble beginnings, Haider went on to serve as a Sargent (2014–2017), join HELI Canada, and pursue his graduation at York University. Today, he is celebrated as a community leader who bridges Pakistani and Filipino youth, praising their shared resilience, creativity, and drive.
“This honor is not mine alone,” Haider reflected. “It belongs to every young Pakistani who works hard, builds bridges, and represents our nation with integrity.”
His recognition has made headlines in The Manila Times, Express Tribune, Express News, and beyond — charting his extraordinary journey from Karachi’s classrooms to Toronto’s workforce, and now, to the global stage.
Link to The Manila Times news report:
