Sajjad, a Pakistani-born computer science graduate, has achieved what few would have imagined possible just a few years ago. His journey, from working as a food delivery rider in Pakistan to becoming a DevOps Engineer in the United Kingdom’s Home Office, is a powerful reminder of how dedication, continuous learning, and self-belief can overcome even the most difficult beginnings.
After completing his bachelor’s degree in Pakistan, Sajjad was unable to secure a job in his home country. With limited options, he began working as a delivery rider for FoodPanda, a food delivery platform. Though modest, the job gave him a chance to support himself financially while planning his next move. He later transitioned into education, taking up a role as a mathematics teacher in a private school. These early positions, although far from his long-term goals, taught him valuable lessons in responsibility and perseverance.
Seeking better opportunities, Sajjad moved to the United Kingdom to pursue a master’s degree in computer science. He studied full-time while working part-time as a DevOps engineer and completed his degree with distinction. This combination of academic excellence and practical experience set the stage for the next chapter of his career. After graduation, through the Post-Study Work (PSW) visa program, he applied for positions in the tech sector and eventually secured a full-time role as a DevOps Engineer in the UK Home Office.
This achievement was significant. Sajjad became the first individual on a PSW visa to be hired by the Home Office after successfully completing the UK’s Security Clearance (SC) process. The SC clearance is a detailed background check required for access to sensitive systems and information. It typically takes several months and requires a high level of trustworthiness and integrity. Passing it is a challenge for any candidate, especially one newly graduated and on a temporary visa.
The Home Office, where Sajjad now works, is responsible for key government services such as passport issuance, visa and immigration processing, public safety, border control, and national security systems. It is also a hub for adopting cutting-edge technologies across departments.
While working in this critical environment, Sajjad continued developing his skills, with a particular interest in Kubernetes, a powerful open-source platform used to manage and scale modern applications. His dedication to mastering Kubernetes earned him the prestigious title of “Kubestronaut,” an honor held by only 64 professionals in the UK and around 1,700 worldwide. He is the first civil servant in the UK to achieve this recognition.
Building on this knowledge, Sajjad designed and implemented a module within the Home Office that uses Kubernetes, AI, and automation tools to streamline the initial stages of application processing. His work reduced the need for manual intervention, increased processing speed, and saved both time and public resources. His contributions demonstrated the practical value of combining emerging technologies with public sector needs.
Despite coming from an Asian and Muslim background, Sajjad says he has never faced discrimination related to race, religion, or ethnicity. Instead, he highlights the support and encouragement he received from his colleagues and managers, who recognized his potential and helped him succeed.
Sajjad’s story is a powerful example of resilience, growth, and the value of consistent learning. It offers a strong message to students and young professionals in Pakistan, the UK, and beyond: your background does not define your future. Even if you start with limited means or face setbacks, your goals are within reach if you stay committed and keep moving forward.
“The world is waiting for you,” Sajjad says. “But you have to take action.”
His journey shows that success is not reserved for the privileged. It belongs to those who keep learning, work hard, and believe in their ability to make a difference.
