Finding Purpose in Data: Why I Joined Workhuman
Meet Afnan, a plant mom, puzzle solver and adventure seeker! While she doesn’t have six dogs, her thriving plant collection keeps her just as busy. A natural problem-solver, she loves tackling complex puzzles—maybe that’s why data engineering comes so naturally to her! When she’s not deep in data, you might find her exploring a new country solo or capturing life’s moments through her camera lens.
Hi, I’m Afnan! My journey has taken me from software engineering in Pakistan to data engineering in Ireland, and along the way, I’ve discovered a passion for using technology to make a real impact. Here’s what led me to Workhuman.
Why I Joined Workhuman
I joined Workhuman because of its unique blend of innovation, human-centered values, and the opportunity to make a tangible impact. After working in data engineering for several years, I wanted to be part of a company where technology and people came together in meaningful ways. Workhuman's mission to create recognition-rich cultures resonated deeply with me, as I believe that recognising and valuing people is essential for both individual and organisational growth.
Additionally, the company’s focus on fostering a positive, inclusive work environment was incredibly attractive. It’s rare to find a workplace that not only prioritises cutting-edge technology but also places such a high emphasis on the well-being and recognition of its people. Joining Workhuman felt like the perfect opportunity to apply my skills in data engineering while contributing to a larger purpose—helping organisations create workplaces where everyone feels valued and appreciated.
Workhuman’s values align perfectly with my personal and professional goals, and I’m excited to be part of a team that is shaping the future of workplace culture.
Life & Career
I've always believed that exploration—whether through data or travel—holds the key to uncovering meaningful insights. This curiosity led me to pursue a career in data engineering, where I spent over five years honing my skills in building systems that transform complex data into actionable insights. What excites me about data engineering is its unique ability to uncover hidden patterns, solve real-world problems, and drive decisions that can have a tangible impact on businesses and communities. While my career in data engineering has been incredibly fulfilling, my passion for travel has always been a constant force in my life. For me, travel is more than just visiting new places—it's about experiencing the world on a deeper level, learning from diverse cultures, and discovering new perspectives.
Career Background
I began my career as a software engineer in Pakistan, and eventually, my passion for data drove me to become a data engineer. I spent years building systems that extract meaningful information from large datasets, and this work became my true calling. But my journey didn’t stop there. My curiosity led me to Ireland, where I enrolled in a PhD program in computer science. While the academic path was rewarding, I realised my passion lay more in the hands-on, practical application of data rather than theory. I made the tough decision to leave the PhD program and return to data engineering, where I could directly impact businesses and communities with real-world solutions.
This journey ultimately brought me to Workhuman, where I could combine my technical expertise with the company’s mission of transforming workplace culture through recognition. Workhuman’s values resonated deeply with me, and I’m thrilled to be part of a company that not only values innovation but also puts people at the center of everything.
Highlights from Your Professional Journey
One of the most significant challenges I faced was shifting from academic research to the practical application of data. My decision to leave the PhD program and return to industry wasn’t easy, but it was ultimately the right one. I’ve had the opportunity to work on systems that help organisations make better decisions and drive positive change. One of my proudest accomplishments has been building data pipelines that directly impact decision-making and efficiency for companies. Working at Workhuman, I also get to contribute to a purpose-driven mission, where data has the power to foster recognition and create a thriving culture for employees.
3 Words: How Would Your Team Members Describe You?
When I asked my team members how they would describe me, they mentioned that I am curious, innovative, a problem solver, shrewd, persevering, inquisitive, friendly, and a champion of democracy and knowledge.
Big Plans!
Workhuman’s future is incredibly exciting. As the company continues to grow, I see immense opportunities to leverage data to enhance our mission of creating human-centered workplace cultures. My goal is to help build systems that not only collect data but also generate insights that directly shape the experiences of employees and leaders alike. The more we understand how recognition drives motivation and engagement, the more we can innovate to provide valuable solutions. My team and I will continue working to build robust data infrastructures that empower Workhuman’s global expansion and mission. Together, we’ll drive positive change within organisations, helping to create workplaces where every individual feels recognised and valued.
Advice for Someone Following a Similar Career Path
If you’re considering a career in data engineering, I’d say embrace the journey of continuous learning. Data engineering offers endless possibilities to solve complex problems and create impactful solutions. Just like travel, data exploration requires curiosity, persistence, and an openness to new ideas. At Workhuman, I’ve found a place where innovation and people-centered values intersect, and I believe this is what makes the company—and the work we do—so unique. If you’re passionate about data, problem-solving, and creating positive change, I highly recommend pursuing a career in this field and considering joining a company like Workhuman that values both technology and its people.
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