On April 28, 2025, Habib University proudly hosted a compelling book talk featuring Zafar Masud, President and CEO of the Bank of Punjab, who discussed his latest book, Seat 1C. The event took place in the H.M Habib Auditorium and attracted a diverse audience eager to hear Masud’s heartfelt journey of surviving the tragic plane crash on May 22, 2020, which claimed 98 lives.
“Seat 1C” is a part memoir, part essay that not only recounts the harrowing experience of the crash but also delves into Masud’s profound reflections and takeaways. Drawing from history, literature, art, philosophy, mythology, and more, Masud advocates for a life lived with empathy for oneself and others.
Aqsa Junejo, Director of Resource Development at Habib University, warmly welcoming the distinguished guests and audience to the launch of Seat 1C.
The event commenced with opening remarks by Ms. Aqsa Junejo, Director of Resource Development at Habib University, who introduced the esteemed author and the moderator of the talk, Naveen Naqvi, a renowned journalist and actress. Following this, Dr. Aamir Hasan, Vice President of Academic Affairs, delivered a warm welcome note, setting the tone for an insightful discussion.
“I am grateful to Zafar sahab, who has been a true champion of Habib University. Around the world, institutions of higher learning carry a vital responsibility, not only to nurture and intellectually enrich their students, but also extend the spirit of learning and dialogue beyond its walls,” he said.
Mr. Zafar Masud, President & CEO of the Bank of Punjab, and Ms. Naveen Naqvi, renowned journalist and actor, open the evening’s conversation by introducing the book and its profound narrative.
During the conversation, Masud emphasized the importance of seeking therapy to heal from traumas, a topic often overlooked in the context of strong, empathetic leadership. His reflections on the transformative event in his life provided the audience with a clearer perspective on resilience and the significance of being granted a second chance at life.
As he read various excerpts from his book, he shared some lessons he took away from the harrowing incident in his life. One of those he shared was, “What’s important is how you are contributing as a human being and what you are giving to society. It is an evolution process, and the learning will never stop.”
Zafar Masud shares reflections from Seat 1C, thoughtfully walking the audience through each chapter of his remarkable journey.
The discussion was followed by an ecstatic Q&A session, where the audience engaged with Masud on various aspects of his journey and the themes of his book, such as catharsis in writing the book, reflecting on the trauma he endured, as well as what makes compassionate banking and leadership.
A full house at Habib University’s auditorium reflects the community’s profound engagement with the themes of resilience, leadership, and purpose explored during the evening.
The event was attended by esteemed corporate leaders including Muhammad Jawaid Iqbal (President and CEO, United Bank Limited), Irfan Siddiqui (CEO of Meezan Bank), Zahid Mir (CEO of Pakistan Refinery Limited) along with Zafar Masud’s family, friends, and people from the wider community.
The talk concluded with a formal acknowledgment, where Dr. Aamir Hasan presented Ms. Naqvi with a token of appreciation, and Mr. Arif Habib, Founding Member of Habib University Foundation, honored Mr. Masud’s inspiring address by presenting him with a shield of recognition. Afterwards, book enthusiasts eagerly queued to get their copies autographed by the author.
The book talk was a testament to Habib University’s commitment to fostering meaningful dialogues, serving as a platform for critical thought, and commemorating life experiences that inspire change.
Seat 1C is more than 𝗮 𝗺𝗲𝗺𝗼𝗶𝗿 𝗼𝗳 𝘀𝘂𝗿𝘃𝗶𝘃𝗮𝗹 — it is a reflection on resilience, responsibility, and the quiet strength to…
Posted by Habib University on Tuesday 29 April 2025
