Professionals discuss balancing ambition and integrity

The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Pakistan (ICAP) Karachi hosted a discussion on Maya's Paradox: How to Balance Ambition and Integrity, a book by UAE-based Pakistani chartered accountant and author Asma Jan Mohammed.

The book explores the dilemmas faced in the corporate sector when balancing leadership, ambition, and ethics. Its central character "Maya" symbolises the struggles professionals encounter in achieving career goals without compromising integrity.

Moin Khan, Chairman of Muniff Ziauddin & Co., who was the chief guest at the event, praised the author's resilience and commitment. Quoting poet Akbar Allahabadi, he said Asma had "lit many candles" through her work. He noted that despite a demanding routine of commuting 360 kilometres daily between Dubai and Abu Dhabi for four years, she continued writing columns and books, showing how dedication can overcome obstacles.

Speaking about her work, Asma explained that the book reflects practical realities rather than theories. She discussed chapters such as Unpopular Decisions and The Darker Side of Transparency, which examine ethical compromises often made in pursuit of quick solutions. She emphasised that while ambition can be flexible, integrity must remain non-negotiable.

One of the chapters, The Thin Line Between Legality and Morality, highlights the clash between profit-making and ethics.

The event concluded with remarks from other participants, including Kausar Parveen, CFO of Pier Investment Company Ltd, and Muhammad Raza of AF Ferguson, who praised the book for shedding light on real-world corporate challenges.