Waqas Akbar
Background
My family has been part of the Frisco community for 5+ years. My wife Adeela is an active volunteer and my kids Ismah and Eesa regularly attend ICF Youth and Sports programs.
I have spent 18 years of my career working for the Telecommunication and IT industry, the past 9 years at Google. My first volunteer effort was training 300+ community members in Project Management and Quality Management at IACC Plano.
Community Contributions in First Shura Term
I served in the ICF Shura in 2024 and 2025. My focus was on building STEM skills in our youth, building strong bonds with the wider faith community, and strengthening our Sunday School program. Here are a few key achievements:
- Establishment of ITKAN Robotics Program — 87 students enrolled in 8 teams and participated at regional/state competitions
- Established Career Development Committee — Trained 200+ students in areas like Python, Cyber Security, College Admission, and Internships
- Led the Interfaith Committee — Welcomed about 500 people from other faiths in programs like Interfaith Iftar, Build Bridges Iftar
- Sunday School — 900+ students enrolled in Sunday School over the 2 sessions
- Established Mental Health and Social Services Committee
Focus Areas for Second Shura Term
If I am elected for a second term, insha Allah, I will focus on the following areas:
- Continue the Robotics program to strengthen the teams and target national level competitions
- Establish partnership with Beam Ventures to offer entrepreneurship trainings to middle/high schoolers
- Expand the services offered through Mental Health and Social Services Committee