As I scrolled through my Facebook feed last night, a Father’s Day ad by TCS Sentiments popped up, triggering a flood of memories. Among life’s treasures, few compare to the joy of following in one’s father’s footsteps. For me, it’s a privilege not only in my personal life but also in my professional endeavors. With over 20 years of experience spanning various organizations, few hold as dear a place in my heart as TCS. The longing to emulate my father’s legacy is the driving force behind my TCS journey.
I started working as Head of Digital Communications at TCS in November 2022, yet my introduction to TCS dates back nearly two decades. My father, (affectionately called Abba) a corporate photographer, did TCS’s corporate photography projects in the late 90s and early 2000s (TCS fleet, services and Sentiments Express). I recall the passion with which he used to recount his experiences, his face aglow with satisfaction from collaborating with like-minded individuals. His admiration for TCS and its people left an indelible impression on me during my formative years as an advertising student.
After graduating, I embarked on a professional journey that saw me traverse through 13 organizations across three sectors. Yet, unconsciously, I always kept an eye on TCS’s marketing endeavors, guided by the reverence Abba held for the organization.
In July 2022, I received an unexpected call for a one-day video shoot at TCS. As I arrived on-site, tasked with recording a message from Chairman Mr. Khalid Awan for internal stakeholders, I found myself immersed in the essence of TCS. Mr. Awan’s demeanor, vision, and leadership exemplified why TCS is the logistical backbone of Pakistan. The core values he espoused resonated throughout the management, reaffirming my admiration for the organization.
Later that year, I was presented with the opportunity to join TCS on a regular basis, and without hesitation, I accepted. It was as though fate had intervened, offering me the chance to engage myself in the very narratives that had shaped my student life. The decision was driven by a desire to reconnect with the stories Abba had told. Now, I find myself not only reliving those cherished memories but also experiencing the same profound sense of accomplishment that my father once did during his experience with TCS.
Indeed, much has transpired since those early days. TCS has weathered numerous management changes, and my own professional journey has undergone significant evolution. My career trajectory has transitioned from a visualizer to a digital marketer, reflecting the transformative impact of technology on conventional advertising and marketing roles. Meanwhile, my beloved Abba has departed this world for a better place, leaving behind a legacy of passion and dedication to his craft.
Despite these changes, one thing remains unwavering: the enduring values instilled within TCS and echoed in my own experiences. The innate satisfaction derived from collaborating with like-minded individuals towards a common goal continues to resonate deeply with me. It serves as a constant reminder of the timeless principles that underpin both TCS’s legacy and my own journey within the organization.
As I navigate the ever-evolving landscape of my professional and personal life, I am grateful for the opportunity to uphold the values that have stood the test of time. In doing so, I pay homage to my father’s enduring legacy while forging my own path within the illustrious tapestry of TCS. Happy Father’s Day.
Tooba Bukhari | hello@toobabukhari.com | +923002281193
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