Waqas Ali is a Pakistani entrepreneur and co-founder of Atoms, a New York-based shoe company that specializes in making everyday shoes that are comfortable and durable. He was born and raised in Pakistan, where he completed his primary education before moving to Lahore to attend college.
After completing his degree, Waqas Ali started his entrepreneurial journey by selling mobile phone accessories in Pakistan. He eventually co-founded Markhor in 2012, with the vision of creating high-quality handmade leather shoes that would support local craftsmen in Pakistan. The company was successful and received funding from various investors, including Indus Valley Capital, which is known for investing in Pakistani startups.
In 2016, Waqas Ali was selected to participate in the prestigious Y Combinator startup accelerator program in Silicon Valley, California. The program provides funding, mentorship, and resources to early-stage startups, and is known for producing successful companies such as Airbnb, Dropbox, and Reddit. During his time in the program, Waqas Ali further developed his entrepreneurial skills and networked with investors and other entrepreneurs.
In 2018, Waqas Ali co-founded Atoms with the aim of creating shoes that would fit perfectly and be comfortable for everyday use. The company received funding from prominent investors such as Initialized Capital, and it quickly gained popularity for its innovative designs and emphasis on comfort. Atoms also gained attention for its commitment to sustainability, as the company uses recycled materials in its products and packaging.
Waqas Ali is known for his entrepreneurial spirit and his passion for creating businesses that make a positive impact. He has also been recognized for his work in promoting Pakistani craftsmanship and helping local artisans to reach a global audience. In addition to his work with Atoms and Markhor, he has also co-founded other startups such as The Innovators, a platform that connects entrepreneurs with mentors and investors.
Overall, Waqas Ali is a respected figure in the startup community and is known for his innovative ideas and entrepreneurial success. He has been featured in various publications such as Forbes, Inc., and Entrepreneur, and has also given talks at various conferences and events around the world.
