Where did you grow up, and what first got you interested in studying theology and ministry?
I grew up in Lahore, the second largest city of Pakistan, where church life is a central part of the Christian community. My family attended a local congregation affiliated with the Roman Catholic Church, and from an early age I was surrounded by conversations about faith, service, and social justice.
What first drew me to studying theology and ministry wasn’t a single dramatic moment but a gradual realization. After high school, I faced many hardships to get quality education and figure out a best direction to success. I became deeply involved in a youth group and supporting mission projects that create bridges for needy young persons in search of better directions for development. In that process, I was struck by how faith could shape not only personal beliefs but entire communities. By the time I reached the US, I found myself captivated by big questions: How do we understand suffering? What does it mean to live faithfully in a complex world? For me, theology feels like a place where heart and mind meet, and ministry seemed like a tangible way to live out those questions in service to others.
What did you study as an undergraduate and where did you go?
I earned a bachelor of commerce from Punjab University, a provincial level university in Pakistan. After completion of my undergraduate degree, I was unable to find a suitable job. Realizing this was the case for many young people—and that this was inhibiting our social and economic growth—was part of what led me to being an advocate for them and to starting my ministry of work to search for better education, careers, and entrepreneurship for the young people of my community.
What led you to pursuing theological education here at Luther Seminary?
I felt led to pursue theological education at Luther Seminary because I sensed a deepening call to serve the community in a more faithful, informed, and transformative way. Over time, I realized that passion alone was not enough and I needed theological grounding, spiritual formation, and a community that would challenge and shape me for active, long-term ministry.
Luther Seminary’s commitment to integrating academic rigor with practical ministry especially resonated with me. I was drawn to its emphasis on grace-centered theology, leadership development, and preparing leaders who can serve diverse and changing communities. The seminary’s focus on cultivating thoughtful, contextually aware ministers as well as social activist like me aligns with my desire to engage scripture deeply while also responding to the real needs of people today.
Additionally, the strong sense of community and formation at Luther stood out to me. I am seeking not only education but transformation—mentors who will challenge me, peers who will grow alongside me, and experiences that will refine my calling. Luther Seminary offers a place where intellectual growth, spiritual depth, and practical preparation come together. This is the kind of environment in which I believe I can best discern and live out God’s call on my life.
What degree program are you in at Luther Seminary, and what are you hoping to do with your seminary education?
As I was serving as a social activist in my community back at home, I realized I needed to enhance my leadership skills to serve more efficiently. So I started a master’s degree in Leadership and Innovation for Ministry here at Luther Seminary, where I’m learning practical theologies and innovative frameworks to satisfy my thirst for effective leadership. I’m hoping to deepen my theological understanding, grow spiritually, and develop the skills needed to serve faithfully, especially in diverse communities.
What has your student experience been like, and what do you do—professionally and otherwise—when you’re not studying?
I’m an international residential student at Luther Seminary and my experience being a student here combines academics, spiritual formation, community life, and practical ministries training. Besides theological studies, we get chance to attend chapel services, participate in prayer groups, go on retreats, and many more opportunities that enhance our growth. When I’m not studying, I love to volunteer in community outreach, listen to music, and do other ordinary life stuff.
How would you describe the value of Luther Seminary’s strength as an academic institution?
As a social activist, I see Luther Seminary’s strength as an academic institution most in its integration of rigorous theological scholarship, deep engagement with the church, and formation for practical leadership. When I think about professional, academic, and personal goals centered on meaningful service and thoughtful leadership, that combination is especially valuable.
What’s your favorite book or movie?
The Book of Psalms is my favorite book from the Bible. It consists of 150 individual psalms, which are usually sung in our tradition. The Psalms express a wide range of human emotions from deep despair and lamentation to joy, thanksgiving and praise and are often used in both personal devotion and public worship. My favorite psalms are 4, 7, 23, 72, and 119, and I love to read and sing these psalms.