LEAP Series: Mahmood Hussein
Mahmood Hussein is a true representation of LEAP; Lived Experience and Professionalism. Being the founder and CEO of Global Drone Solutions, he shared with us his years of career path to success in STEM and drones.
What led you into STEM and drones?
Mahmood: I have a vision for Global Drone Solutions, to foster exciting careers in drones and use this technology for societal good. Our initiatives empower less privileged individuals in emerging countries, enabling them to use drones in disaster response and emergency situations, which saves lives and builds local capabilities. In Australia, we aim to inspire young people to explore aviation and STEM careers. We've integrated drones into high school STEM curricula nationwide, providing practical, engaging education. We also support our First Nations communities by equipping Aboriginal rangers with drones to manage and monitor their lands, helping preserve their heritage and natural landscape. We believe in the power of collaboration and have partnered with organisations like WeRobotics to fast-track free training, amplifying the impact of drones in humanitarian efforts globally. These partnerships underscore our commitment to using technology for equity and advancement. Our future vision is to continue leveraging drones as a cornerstone of sustainable development and community empowerment, breaking barriers and building bridges both in Australia and worldwide.
Who is your greatest inspiration throughout your career?
Mahmood: My greatest inspiration has always been my father. Born into a subsistence farming family in rural Pakistan, I experienced first-hand the struggles of living hand-to-mouth. From the age of five, I accompanied my father as he sold vegetables from village to village. I carried the weighing scales, but he imparted something much heavier: invaluable life lessons. He taught me the importance of respect, generosity, and community support. During tough times, when others couldn't afford our produce, he would offer it for free, instilling in me a profound sense of empathy and civic duty. His actions demonstrated how crucial it is to uplift one another, especially within vulnerable communities. At seven, we migrated to the UK, a move that opened doors to opportunities previously unimaginable. This journey from a small village in Pakistan to my educational and subsequent career achievements in the UK and beyond was the best gift he could have given us. His wisdom and example laid the foundation for my values and ambitions, shaping the person I am today.
Can you tell us a time that you considered the biggest challenge of your career and how did you overcome it?
Mahmood: One of the biggest challenges of my career occurred during the early days of Global Drone Solutions. As we aimed to establish a foothold in the competitive drone industry, we faced significant financial constraints and scepticism from potential clients and partners about the viability and safety of drone technology. Navigating this period required a multifaceted approach. Firstly, I invested heavily in education and outreach, conducting workshops and presentations to showcase the potential and reliability of drones in various industries. This not only helped in slowly building trust but also demonstrated our commitment to advancing drone technology safely and effectively. Additionally, I focused on forming strategic partnerships with key industry players to enhance our credibility and reach. These collaborations were crucial in providing the momentum we needed to grow and stabilise. Finally, resilience and adaptability were key. I continually adapted our business strategies to respond to market feedback and emerging trends, ensuring that our offerings remained relevant and appealing. Overcoming this challenge taught me the importance of perseverance, the power of education in changing perceptions, and the value of strategic alliances. These lessons have been instrumental in shaping the successful trajectory of our company.
In your opinion, how has the STEM world changed since you first started?
Mahmood: The STEM landscape, particularly within the drone industry, has undergone dramatic transformations since I first started, mirroring broader trends in education and technology. STEM disciplines have crucially shaped the evolution of drone technology by fostering essential skills for innovation, such as problem-solving and creativity. Technologically, the advancement in drones has been striking. We've progressed from basic models to highly sophisticated systems integrated with AI, a testament to the application of STEM principles. Today's drones are equipped to handle complex functions like multispectral imaging and autonomous navigation, demonstrating the practical application of engineering and computational sciences. Moreover, drones' intersection with various scientific disciplines underscores the interdisciplinary nature of contemporary STEM education. Students and professionals now deploy drones across diverse fields, from environmental science to digital arts, broadening the spectrum of STEM applications and enhancing the educational framework. These developments within the drone sector exemplify the ongoing evolution in STEM education, which is geared towards equipping students not only to manage future technologies but also to innovate them thoughtfully and inclusively.
What is one tip you will give to the next generation entering STEM?
Mahmood: One crucial tip I would offer to anyone entering the STEM fields is to embrace interdisciplinary learning. The future of innovation is not siloed but interconnected. As we've seen in the drone industry, the integration of technology with diverse fields like environmental science, public safety, and the arts can create groundbreaking solutions and applications. Being open to learning from different disciplines not only enhances your problem-solving skills but also broadens your creative horizon, making you more adaptable and innovative. Whether you are an engineer learning about environmental impacts or a scientist exploring data visualisation through digital arts, these cross-disciplinary skills will prepare you to tackle the complex challenges of tomorrow. Stay curious, keep learning, and remember that the ability to combine knowledge from various fields will be a defining trait of success in the future.
How do you handle stress?
Mahmood: Managing stress effectively is crucial in any high-demand environment. Over the years, I've honed several strategies that help me maintain balance and resilience. Firstly, I prioritise regular physical activity, which not only relieves physical tension but also clears my mind. Whether it’s attending a gym class or taking a weekend hike, staying active is a fundamental part of my stress management routine. Secondly, I practice mindfulness and meditation. These practices help me stay centred and calm, even in high-pressure situations. Dedicating time daily to focus on my breathing and being present significantly boosts my mental health. Additionally, maintaining a strong support network is essential. Discussing challenges and sharing experiences with peers, family, and friends not only provides emotional relief but also offers new perspectives that are invaluable for navigating stress. Lastly, I strictly separate work from personal life. Setting clear boundaries ensures that I can fully recharge, allowing me to return to work with renewed focus and energy