Mr Hamid Farooqui: Visionary Indian-American Entrepreneur and Tech Innovator
Danish Reyaz | Maeeshat | Mumbai
The American Dream has long served as a beacon, drawing people from around the world to the United States. Its allure lies in the boundless opportunities it promises—rewarding hard work, talent, and determination, free from prejudice based on race, religion, nationality, or appearance. Over the years, countless Indians, inspired by this ideal, have journeyed to the U.S. with aspirations for a better future. Fueled by these possibilities, they’ve worked tirelessly, often starting from scratch, and reshaping their lives in ways they had once only dreamed of.
Today, Indians are acknowledged as one of the most successful immigrant communities in the U.S., making remarkable contributions across diverse fields, from technology to academia, and from business to politics in various roles. As a group, they are the most educated ethnic community and have the highest median household income. Their relentless hard work and unwavering drive to excel have earned them a reputation as one of the most dedicated and influential groups in the country, playing a crucial role in the nation’s continued progress. There are numerous shining examples in the story of Indian success in the U.S., such as Satya Nadella and Sundar Pichai reaching the pinnacle of the business world, while Kamala Harris, vying for the Presidency, stands as a powerful testament to Indians shaping the political landscape of America.
Alongside these prominent figures, countless Indian immigrants have made significant contributions across various fields and continue to do so, enriching both American achievements and Indian pride through their hard work and dedication. Among them is Hamid Farooqui, an Indian-origin entrepreneur who splits his time equally between India and the U.S. and has founded and successfully led two software companies with remarkable drive and success.
Born in Mumbai, Maharashtra, India, Mr. Farooqui moved to the United States to pursue higher education. Although he initially planned to return to India, he secured his dream job at Oracle Corporation, one of the world’s largest software companies, which led him to settle in the U.S. Through dedication and hard work, he rose to the position of Director of Engineering within just three years. Eventually, he left Oracle and worked tirelessly to carve out a successful niche for himself, showcasing not only his determination but also his unwavering vision and commitment to excellence. “I was captivated by the American Dream, like anyone seeking a bright future for themselves. However, as I reflect on how my journey in America has unfolded for the better, I am most grateful to Allah Subhanahu wa Ta’ala above all else,” says Mr. Farooqui, his voice filled with unmistakable gratitude, a reflection of the humility he has carried from the very beginning.
Fifty-one-year-old Mr. Farooqui, well-built and sharp, radiates a warm confidence that mirrors his inner strength and determination, exemplifying how he has achieved so much. With a clear mind and a firm grasp of his life’s vision, he stands as a testament to focused ambition. This cover story seeks to explore his path to success, offering a deeper understanding of his mindset, beliefs, and core values.
You can learn more about Mr. Farooqui in his Forbes profile, available here. https://councils.forbes.com/profile/Hamid-Farooqui-CEO-Sogolytics/61ea28d4-7249-4311-ad61-0e4994f196d6
Additionally, several articles authored by Mr. Farooqui can be found at the same link, offering further insights into his expertise and experiences.
Education and Family Background
Mr. Hamid Farooqui was the ninth of ten children born to Idris Farooqui, a farmer and successful businessman in Mumbai, and Tahira Farooqui, a homemaker. Although born in Mumbai, he spent his early childhood in his ancestral village of Kakrahta in the Azamgarh district, where he witnessed the everyday struggles of ordinary people firsthand. A few years later, he returned to Mumbai, where his formal education began.
Despite his family’s comfortable financial status, the values of education, hard work, and perseverance were instilled in him from a young age. Guided by these principles, he committed himself to his studies, showing early signs of a promising future. Initially enrolled in an Urdu-medium school due to his village upbringing, he later transitioned to an English-medium school, where he excelled academically. Tragically, when Mr. Farooqui was just in second grade, his father passed away—a loss he still deeply feels. “I only wish he had lived longer to witness his children’s success in their professional lives or to see how well we have done across so many different paths,” he reflects with a sense of longing.
Fortunately, losing his father did not hinder his education. He had five older brothers, all of whom were highly accomplished, and together they ensured that the younger siblings remained focused on what mattered most—education. By Allah’s grace, his eldest brother, Dr. Shuaib Farooqui, became a renowned pediatric surgeon in the U.S. Asif Farooqui, a businessman, is a well-known figure in social and political circles in Mumbai. Javed Farooqui, Suhail Farooqui, and Faisal Farooqui are all successful entrepreneurs in the technology space.
He emphasizes that environment in his family motivated him to do something worthwhile, something that would make his family proud. And it dawned on him early that a good education is the only way to achieve that. So, he approached his education with ample seriousness and worked hard.
Mr. Farooqui says that consistently achieving good grades in school boosted his confidence, and by the time he was in eleventh grade, he realized that he could accomplish something substantial in life through his education.
In those days becoming an engineer was a major accomplishment. He pursued a degree in Mechanical Engineering from Maharashtra University and graduated with flying colors, which led him to his first job at Mahindra.
Journey Toward Greater Goals
Mr. Hamid Farooqui earned his B.E. in Production from Saboo Siddik College of Engineering and began his career at Mahindra, where he worked with dedication and passion. However, this was only the beginning of his journey toward greater ambitions. He then moved to Dubai, taking on the role of a planning engineer in a glass factory. Yet, a brighter future awaited him in the United States. After a year and a half in Dubai, Mr. Farooqui realized that the future was in technology, motivating him to relocate to the U.S. to pursue a Master’s in Computer Science, driven by his aspiration to advance his career and make a more meaningful impact.
He attributes much of his drive for success and ambition to his siblings, who inspired him to aim higher from a young age. After their father’s passing, they came together, supporting and encouraging one another to pursue greatness. Mr. Farooqui speaks with deep admiration for his eldest brother, Dr. Shuaib Farooqui. “My eldest brother excelled academically and is now a renowned pediatric surgeon in the U.S.,” he shares. “He had a profound influence on my aspirations, often pushing me to think bigger. He’d ask, ‘Why not become an industrialist, a business tycoon, or achieve something extraordinary, instead of settling for mediocrity?’” Looking back, it’s evident that his brother’s words had a lasting impact on Mr. Farooqui, who has since carved out a successful career as a tech entrepreneur.
Changing His Field of Study
When Mr. Hamid Farooqui arrived in America, he vowed to seize every opportunity. Determined to excel academically and build a promising future, he reflects, “America has a welcoming energy. If you’re sincere in your pursuit, you can feel it in the air.”
A bright student and astute observer of business trends, he strategically planned his career. While working in Dubai, he recognized that the future lay in computer science and technology, offering immense potential. This realization led him to pursue a Master’s in Computer Science in the U.S., a decision that would ultimately change the course of his life.
Landing His Dream Job
Like any ambitious engineer, Mr. Hamid Farooqui aspired to work for a leading company. For him, that company was Oracle, a global tech giant known for its innovation and cutting-edge solutions, which had piqued his interest during his college years in India. Once in the U.S., he was determined to make this dream a reality through hard work. “While pursuing my Master’s at the State University of New York, Binghamton, I was laser-focused on joining Oracle, and I knew I could achieve it,” he recalls, his eyes reflecting quiet confidence. His recruitment by Oracle felt almost inevitable, given his meticulous preparation.
“Beyond mastering my core subjects, I thoroughly researched Oracle—from its products and services to its business strategies. I ensured I knew the company inside and out,” he adds. Being selected for Oracle was one of the happiest moments of Mr. Farooqui’s life, though he understood it was just the first step toward even bigger aspirations.
Making a Mark
Mr. Hamid Farooqui was hired by Oracle’s e-Travel division as a highly skilled programmer, proficient in key technologies like WAP, Software as a Service (SaaS), and Mobile Application Programming. Like true talent that shines, he quickly made his mark at Oracle. He was among the early team members who designed, built, and launched Oracle’s e-Travel tool, leveraging C++ and the then-cutting-edge WAP technology.
Beyond his technical expertise, Mr. Farooqui’s strong technology management skills, ability to handle complex challenges, and natural leadership set him apart. These qualities earned him rapid promotions, culminating in his role as Director of Engineering for the division within just three years.
When Oracle’s e-Travel division was acquired by Amadeus, the world’s leading Global Distribution System (GDS) and technology provider for the travel and tourism industry, Mr. Farooqui’s leadership truly stood out. He successfully led the integration of two complex technology platforms in the U.S. and Europe while building effective cross-location teams.
Mr. Farooqui praises America’s work culture for rewarding talent without prejudice. “If you are talented, it doesn’t matter your race, nationality, or religion—whether you are Black or White, nothing else matters. If you have what it takes, no one will hold you back” he reflects.
Paving His Own Path
While working at Oracle, Mr. Farooqui gained a deep understanding of the software business landscape. Though committed to the company, his entrepreneurial spirit remained strong. “I always knew I wanted to chart my own course and start my own venture,” he reflects, “but I never expected it to happen so early in my career.”
After six years at Oracle and Amadeus, Mr. Farooqui went on to co-found K12 Insight with his brothers (he and his brothers also own Mouthshut.com – a leading consumer review website in India, allowing users to share their opinions and feedback on a wide range of products and services). The driving force behind this venture was his desire to implement creative ideas independently, free from the constraints of corporate bureaucracy, and to make a direct impact in the industry through his leadership.
K12 Insight: Revolutionizing School Software
Mr. Hamid Farooqui recognized a gap in the software solutions available to schools, as most major firms focused on serving large corporations, which were more lucrative. Few companies addressed the unique needs of educational institutions, leading to the creation of K12 Insight.
He co-founded the company with his brothers, Suhail and Faisal Farooqui, who shared his vision of building their own venture rather than working for others. Together, they developed K12 Insight into a leader in providing software solutions that streamline school operations and enhance productivity.
“What sets K12 Insight apart is our comprehensive approach,” says Mr. Farooqui. “We create tools that enhance family and community engagement, support key initiatives, and improve the experience for all stakeholders—students, parents, teachers, and staff.”
K12 Insight partners with school districts to deliver superior customer service using a powerful customer experience and intelligence platform, an AI-powered chatbot, research, and professional development. By offering better service, districts can build trust, improve family and community engagement, generate public support for key initiatives, and foster a positive school environment. In fact, the top-performing districts that retain students, staff, and funding all share one thing in common: they prioritize delivering superior customer service.
“Our client base includes several nationally recognized schools, and we’ve expanded our services to meet the advanced needs of universities,” Mr. Farooqui adds. “We’re also planning to grow our university partnerships in the near future.”
Sogolytics: Elevating Corporate Performance
In 2012, Mr. Hamid Farooqui co-founded Sogolytics, an all-in-one customer experience and feedback management platform designed to help businesses gather, analyze, and act on real-time insights. With advanced survey capabilities, automated feedback collection, and powerful analytics, Sogolytics enables organizations to better understand customer needs, drive engagement, and improve overall satisfaction. Its intuitive platform allows for easy survey customization, while AI-driven analytics provide actionable insights to support data-driven decisions. Trusted by industries worldwide, Sogolytics helps businesses enhance customer loyalty, optimize service delivery, and gain a competitive edge in today’s market.
Sogolytics serves a global client base, including several Fortune 500 companies such as Citi Bank, Harvard University, IBM, Sony, HSBC, Dell, and Yamaha. Its suite of tools is designed to drive performance through data insights, with features like an Online Survey Tool that creates professional surveys in minutes, offering advanced design and distribution options, and robust analytics that rank among the best available. The platform’s Enterprise Feedback Software provides a secure and collaborative environment for feedback management, using sophisticated logic and analytics to ensure precise results.
The Customer Experience Management platform enhances satisfaction and loyalty by monitoring every touchpoint through a customizable, interactive dashboard, ultimately driving business growth. Additionally, Sogolytics’ Employee Experience Management tool simplifies employee engagement with features like surveys, eNPS, and 360-degree feedback, supported by integrated analytics and presentation-ready reports to boost engagement.
A Self-Motivated Man
With a clear vision and strong drive, Mr. Hamid Farooqui went on to co-found not one but two successful companies, exemplifying the power of self-motivation. From a young age, he was taught the importance of education and hard work, inspired by the success of his siblings. “Motivation was right inside my house. I didn’t have to look outside for it,” he reflects. By harnessing his inner drive, he built businesses that not only thrive in competitive markets but also provide solutions to the evolving needs of their clients. His journey shows how self-motivation, vision, and hard work can lead to extraordinary success.
An Inspiring Leader
Mr. Hamid Farooqui is a leader par excellence, with the success of his companies reflecting his ability to turn strategies into successful outcomes. Known for his precise execution, he consistently delivers results. Yet, the ever-modest Mr. Farooqui acknowledges, “It’s not that I don’t make mistakes. There have been times when I realized things could have been done differently. But I’m a quick learner and always ready to make course corrections.”
While his talent is undeniable, it is his humility that sets him apart as a leader. A true testament to his leadership is the loyalty of his employees—many of whom, among the 500 he oversees, have been with him since the early days. This speaks volumes about the trust and satisfaction they have under his leadership.
Mr. Farooqui strikes the right balance between being approachable and maintaining a professional, inspiring presence that keeps the workflow efficient. His dedication motivates employees to give their best. “It’s important to create an atmosphere where employees feel encouraged and motivated,” says Mr. Farooqui. “From the start, we envisioned a work culture—one free of bias, where performance is the only measure. It’s simple: when employees are treated with respect and rewarded for their efforts, they remain loyal and perform at their best.”
AI Impact
No matter how motivated or high-performing employees are, the rapid rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has sparked significant concern worldwide. Many fear that AI could lead to widespread job losses, leaving a large portion of the workforce unemployed. However, Mr. Hamid Farooqui offers a different perspective. “It reminds me of the concerns that arose when computers were first introduced,” he recalls. “As we later saw, those fears were largely exaggerated.”
He acknowledges AI’s revolutionary potential, emphasizing its transformative capabilities across various sectors. In healthcare, AI could revolutionize diagnostics by providing earlier and more accurate disease detection. In scientific research, it could accelerate discoveries and advance complex problem-solving. Additionally, AI could play a crucial role in streamlining logistics, automating repetitive tasks in manufacturing, and optimizing energy consumption in smart cities. Education stands to benefit greatly, as AI-powered tools offer personalized learning experiences tailored to individual student needs.
Despite the potential for disruption, Mr. Farooqui believes the fears of AI causing mass unemployment are overstated. While automation and robotics may impact industries like manufacturing and logistics, he stresses that AI won’t significantly replace human workers in knowledge-based sectors. “The nature of jobs will evolve, not vanish,” he explains. For instance, tools like ChatGPT have reduced task turnaround times with rapid research and responses, but they still require skilled individuals to guide the AI, validate its outputs, and apply the information thoughtfully.
He also highlights the paradox that AI could boost productivity, enabling companies to innovate and create new products. Yet, as Mr. Farooqui cleverly points out, “If employees are unemployed, who will have the purchasing power to buy these products?” This underscores the importance of balancing AI adoption with workforce sustainability.
In summary, Mr. Farooqui doesn’t subscribe to the alarmist view that AI will cause massive job losses. Instead, he advocates for a balanced approach—emphasizing careful management, ethical regulation, and continuous upskilling of the workforce to ensure AI serves as a tool for progress rather than disruption.
Hint for Future
Starting with just 14-15 employees, Mr. Farooqui’s ventures have grown significantly, now employing around 500 people. Over the years, his companies have not only expanded but also achieved valuations in the millions, drawing lucrative offers from potential buyers. Despite these tempting proposals, Mr. Farooqui remains undecided. “If we ever decide to sell, it would be at a premium, which could dramatically change our professional trajectory,” he notes.
While he doesn’t elaborate on the specifics of that potential trajectory, such a move could unlock new opportunities, perhaps allowing him to explore other industries or start new ventures with the capital and recognition gained from a successful sell-off. Whatever path he chooses, it would likely be a turning point in his career, positioning him as a key player with the financial freedom to shape markets and industries.
American Values
America has long been a symbol of freedom and opportunity, values Mr. Farooqui deeply admires. However, he expresses some concern about the increasing political division. “It feels like America is pulling back from the ideals it once stood for,” he says, citing the role of social media in fueling anger and xenophobia.
Despite this, Mr. Farooqui stresses that the belief foreigners, including Indians, are taking away jobs and resources is unfounded. “We are proud of America and feel a strong obligation to contribute to the nation that has given us so much,” he adds.
His biggest concern is how a small fraction of people use social media to incite division and hatred. Yet, he remains confident that the majority of Americans continue to uphold the values of liberty and freedom, and he believes this wave of extremism will eventually pass.
But it should be pointed out, Indians, in particular, continue to be viewed positively in America, a testament to their contributions and shared commitment to these ideals.
Balancing Modernity and Islam
Despite his personal and professional success, Mr. Farooqui remains deeply connected to the values instilled by his upbringing in a large joint family, where he learned virtues from his elders. “My family elders were devout Muslims, yet very practical. That quality has been passed down to us,” he says. “My religious beliefs don’t interfere with leading a modern life, as long as I avoid Haram (prohibited things). For me, both coexist harmoniously, which has greatly contributed to my personal growth and made me a better human being—or so I believe.”
He believes that being religious fosters calmness, patience, and discipline—qualities essential for leadership at any level. According to Mr. Farooqui, much of his success can be attributed to these qualities, which he developed early on through his connection to his faith.
Mr. Farooqui also emphasizes that being religious doesn’t mean forsaking worldly pursuits, as some Ulemas may suggest. He believes this thinking has discouraged a segment of Muslims from pursuing success, focusing solely on Ibadat (worship). However, he points out that success benefits not only the individual but also those around them—family, friends, and employees. A successful person is in a position to contribute to charity, helping the poor and needy. “This is exactly what Allah wants—success for his Ummat both in this world and the hereafter,” he affirms.
Charity Work
There are many successful individuals across various fields, but it is rare to find those who are both benevolent and deeply committed to helping others through charity. Mr. Farooqui is one of those whose heart beats for the needy and underprivileged. He has extended help to hundreds of people who have sought his assistance.
In India, his team actively supports those in need, both financially and in other ways, with clear instructions to never turn away anyone seeking help. Whether it’s funding the marriage of a poor girl, supporting the education of a bright but financially struggling student, or assisting with medical expenses, aid has been provided in countless cases. Though his generosity is well-known, Mr. Farooqui remains humble about it, likely following the principle: when giving to the needy, don’t let your left hand know what your right hand is doing.
However, he speaks openly about a project close to his heart: establishing a world-class school in his native village. He explains that while there is already a good school managed by his family, efforts are underway to elevate it into an institution offering high-quality, international-standard education.
“As we became successful as a family, my heart always went out to those who, lacking opportunities, remained stuck in their circumstances,” he says. “My siblings and I felt a strong need to help the less fortunate, and we realized the best way to do this was by providing them with the best modern education, enabling them to succeed in the competitive world and transform their lives.”
He believes his village is the ideal place for this initiative, feeling indebted to the place of his forefathers. Additionally, the poverty in the area, where people lacked education and employment opportunities, deeply moved him. He personally knew talented individuals who couldn’t achieve success due to the lack of resources.
Currently, the school serves students from the village and nearby areas, providing modern education in a productive way. However, a significant transformation is on the horizon, as Mr. Farooqui and his family plan a comprehensive upgrade and expansion of the school, aiming to provide state-of-the-art facilities and revolutionize education delivery. “Our ambitious goal is to offer students cutting-edge resources and an enriched learning environment to elevate their overall educational experience,” asserts Mr. Farooqui.
Emphasis on Modern Education
Azamgarh has long been known for its pioneering role in Madrasa education, with nearly every village hosting one of these institutions. Since the British era, Madrasas have played a vital role in educating the masses, particularly the poor, at a time when public schools were few and far between. Interestingly, these institutions have historically welcomed not only Muslims but also non-Muslims. However, over the years, many Madrasas have struggled to modernize their curriculum, remaining focused primarily on religious education.
While some larger Madrasas have begun incorporating modern subjects alongside core religious studies, these changes have been limited. This challenge is not unique to Azamgarh but is prevalent across India and South Asia.
In today’s rapidly changing world, modern education is crucial. While religious education remains the foundation of Madrasas, there is a growing need to develop hybrid models that offer both religious and modern education. Many Madrasa graduates face economic challenges because they lack the skills needed to succeed in the modern job market. Although the Sachar Committee report shows that only 4% of Muslim students in India attend Madrasas, it remains essential for those students to gain access to modern education and the opportunities it provides.
Mr. Farooqui emphasizes, “Some of our brightest minds are found in Madrasas, where students follow a rigorous learning regimen and work hard daily. Memorizing the entire Holy Quran at a young age sharpens their memory. If we can equip them with modern education and proper guidance, they have the potential to excel in the toughest exams and change the course of their lives.”
He stresses that by providing these students with modern education, we would not only improve their prospects but also challenge the stigma unfairly placed on them by those with communal biases, who label them as backward or fundamentalist. “This would be a great service to these students, most of whom come from the lower strata of society,” Mr. Farooqui adds.
Looking ahead, Mr. Farooqui envisions creating an institution that transcends religious, caste, or creed boundaries—one that welcomes students from all backgrounds. “Education should be a unifying force, not something that divides people based on their background,” he says. His goal is to establish an institution that offers modern education while fostering inclusivity and diversity. By creating an environment where students of different beliefs and cultures can learn together, Mr. Farooqui hopes to build a model of harmonious coexistence and mutual respect, empowering young minds to excel and contribute positively to society.
Family Life
Mr. Hamid Farooqui is blessed with a loving and supportive family. He is happily married to Yasmin Farooqui, an engineer by profession, who chose to step away from her career to focus on raising their children and supporting her husband. Together, they have three children: Yusuf, 23, a Computer Engineer who graduated from the University of Virginia, one of the top colleges in the U.S.; Azra, 21, currently studying Psychology at George Mason University in Virginia; and Noah, 15, who is in the 10th grade.
Mr. Farooqui humbly acknowledges the crucial role his wife Yasmin has played in his success. He believes that a peaceful home and a supportive spouse are essential for balancing family and career. “I couldn’t have achieved what I have without the immense support from my wife,” he says. He credits Yasmin for creating a stable, loving environment at home, which has allowed him to focus his time and energy on his ventures. Her unwavering dedication to their family, he feels, has been one of the biggest contributors to his personal and professional achievements.
Conclusion
Mr. Hamid Farooqui’s journey, fueled by determination and hard work, stands as an inspiring example for others. With a clear vision and strong ambition, he has successfully built two ventures—a remarkable achievement for someone who came from India to a foreign land. What truly sets him apart is that, beyond his entrepreneurial success, he remains deeply thoughtful and engaged with issues impacting both his country and community.
Mr. Farooqui is far from being solely focused on business. He is intellectually involved in socio-political, economic, and technological matters that affect everyday life. Whether addressing the impact of AI on the workforce, the shifts in liberal values in America, or the challenges facing Muslim education, he offers insightful and solution-oriented perspectives.
What truly distinguishes Mr. Farooqui is his unwavering commitment to empowering others through education. He recognizes education as the most powerful tool and works tirelessly to ensure people have access to it. His leadership extends beyond economic success—he strives to create a lasting, positive impact on society. At just 51 years old, Mr. Farooqui still has plenty of time to grow as a businessman and seize new opportunities to make a meaningful social impact.
Maeeshat Media warmly congratulates him on his remarkable achievements so far. His journey, marked by courage and determination, has been nothing short of inspiring. As he continues to move forward, we wish him even greater success and look forward to seeing his influence expand, benefiting both the business world and society at large.
