Rising Stars: Meet Affan Shahab of Orange County

Today we’d like to introduce you to Affan Shahab

Hi Affan, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
From as early as I can remember, I’ve always had a knack for solving problems. Whether it was dismantling household gadgets to see how they worked or tackling complex puzzles, this curiosity was a defining trait of my childhood in Karachi, Pakistan. The vibrant and bustling streets of Karachi were my playground—a place where I learned resilience, adaptability, and the importance of community.

Pursuing a career in software engineering was a natural progression for me. It was a field that not only quenched my thirst for problem-solving but also promised substantial growth opportunities. I was fascinated by the idea of creating something out of nothing—turning lines of code into functional applications that could impact people’s lives.

In 2017, I joined a promising startup Scayle that was pushing the boundaries of technology. Our hard work paid off when we were acquired by Speridian Technologies in 2019. This milestone opened new doors for me, and in 2020, Speridian offered me the opportunity to move to the United States to work onsite with their clients. However, life had other plans. The COVID-19 pandemic hit, bringing the world to a standstill. Travel restrictions meant postponing my move, and during this time, my daughter was born. Her arrival was a beacon of joy amidst global uncertainty, and part of me felt that the delay was a blessing in disguise—it allowed me to be present for those precious early moments of her life.

As the world gradually adapted to a new normal, my plans to move to the U.S. resumed. In 2021, with a mix of excitement and apprehension, I packed our lives into suitcases and relocated my family to Southern California’s Orange County. The transition was significant—not just geographically but culturally and professionally. The palm-lined streets, the diverse communities, and the tech hub of Los Angeles became our new environment.

My upbringing played a crucial role in navigating this new chapter. Growing up, my parents instilled in me values of respect, kindness, and a positive outlook on life. Despite our humble means, they made sure we felt rich in love and opportunities. They never doubted my abilities or aspirations, always encouraging me to reach for the stars. This unwavering support built a foundation of confidence and optimism that has carried me through life’s challenges.

One of the most transformative experiences was becoming a father. The birth of my first born reshaped my priorities and deepened my understanding of responsibility and unconditional love. It motivated me to strive harder, not just for personal success but to set an example and provide the best for my family.

My passion for storytelling led me to start vlogging for fellow Pakistani audiences. I realized that many people back home might never have the chance to explore different parts of the world. Through my videos, I aim to be their eyes, sharing the sights, sounds, and experiences of life abroad. Storytelling via videos became a creative outlet—a way to connect with others, bridge cultural gaps, and perhaps inspire someone along the way. So I started a channel named “Shahab Namay”. Shahab is my last name which is basically my great grandfather name, and word “Namay” means like a story, a show, a presentation.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Migrating to the U.S. was both an exciting adventure and a daunting challenge. The cultural differences were profound. In Karachi, life was communal; neighbors knew each other, and there was a strong sense of collective identity. In contrast, American life seemed more individualistic. Simple things like social norms, communication styles, and even humor were different. Starting over without a home, car, or immediate support network meant rebuilding our lives from the ground up.

Adapting to these changes required a conscious effort. I reminded myself that humans are inherently adaptable—we just need to embrace change rather than resist it. Professionally, I had to navigate a new work environment with different expectations and practices. I focused on maintaining my personal and religious integrity while integrating into the new culture.

My wife was instrumental during this transition. She transformed our house into a home, infusing it with familiar comforts and traditions. This safe haven allowed me to focus on work and adapting to our new surroundings, knowing that our family life remained rooted and stable.

Balancing a demanding career with fatherhood has been an ongoing challenge. Every day feels like a tightrope walk—striving to excel professionally while being present for my children. We’re committed to homeschooling our kids, which requires significant time and energy. My wife, a full-time mother, has made immense sacrifices, putting her career aspirations on hold to provide our children with a nurturing and educational environment. Her contributions are the backbone of our family’s well-being.

In my storytelling and vloggin journey, time constraints have been the biggest hurdle. Between work commitments and family responsibilities, finding moments to create and edit content is tough. Yet, I persevere because storytelling is a passion that fuels me. It’s rewarding to know that even a small video can brighten someone’s day or offer a new perspective.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
In my role as a software engineer, each day presents a new puzzle to solve. I delve into complex systems, identify issues, and develop solutions that enhance functionality and user experience. Staying abreast of technological advancements is crucial in this rapidly evolving field. I take pride in delivering quality work for Speridian and their clients, knowing that my contributions have a tangible impact.

I’m proud of being part of the tech industry as a whole. There’s a certain magic in turning abstract ideas into practical tools that can simplify tasks and improve lives. For instance, developing software that automates tedious processes, thereby freeing people to focus on more meaningful work, brings me immense satisfaction.

While my profession is deeply rooted in technology, my passion for storytelling and videography offers a refreshing balance. It allows me to explore and share the world beyond computers and the internet.

Through my vlogs, I aim to share authentic experiences rather than curated perfection. Whether it’s a stroll through a bustling Los Angeles market or a quiet hike in the Orange County trails, I want to showcase the diversity of life here. While I haven’t extensively pondered the broader impact on the Pakistani community, I hope that my stories offer insight, entertainment, and perhaps a sense of connection to those watching.

How do you think about happiness?
Happiness, for me, is encapsulated in the simple joys of life—spending quality time with my family. My parents, spouse, and children are the pillars of my world. There’s a profound contentment that comes from shared laughter at the dinner table, weekend outings, or even quiet evenings at home.

Being outdoors with my family amplifies this joy. Nature has a way of bringing people closer, and watching my children explore the world with wonder reminds me of my own childhood adventures. My father often took me on trips when I was young, experiences that left an indelible mark on me. Continuing this tradition with my own kids feels both nostalgic and fulfilling.

A particularly memorable period was when my parents visited after the birth of my second daughter. We embarked on numerous trips together, from scenic drives along the coast to exploring local attractions. Seeing the world through their eyes—witnessing their excitement and curiosity—was incredibly rewarding. It reinforced the importance of family bonds and the joy of shared experiences.

My aspiration is to continue exploring the vast landscapes of the United States specially all 63 national parks with my family. Each journey is an opportunity to create lasting memories and strengthen our connections.

When it comes to finding happiness, I believe it’s a state of mind. It’s about self-belief, having a purpose, and staying true to oneself. Life often presents pressures to conform or pursue paths that may not align with our true desires. My advice is to pause and reflect—give yourself the permission to choose a path that genuinely brings you joy. Embrace the journey, cherish the small moments, and don’t be afraid to take a step back when needed. Happiness isn’t a destination but a way of traveling through life.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://affanshahab.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/affanshahab/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/affan.shahab/
• Twitter: https://x.com/ShahabAffan
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ShahabNamay