Empowering the Diaspora in Silicon Valley
We are the bridge connecting entrepreneurs, investors, and professionals to opportunities in the world's innovation capital.
What Drives Us
These core values guide everything we do and shape the culture of our community.
Driven by Purpose
Our foundation is built on three pillars that guide every event, initiative, and partnership we undertake.
Our Mission
To promote entrepreneurship, professional growth, and business development by connecting the professional community in Silicon Valley through world-class workshops, forums, and events.
- Connecting professionals across industries
- Fostering entrepreneurship and innovation
- Facilitating business development opportunities
Our Vision
We strive to foster entrepreneurship and accelerate business development, providing a platform where entrepreneurs and investors network and share game-changing ideas globally.
- Global platform for idea exchange
- Accelerating business growth
- Bridging investors and entrepreneurs
Our Objectives
To help members achieve business goals, overcome obstacles, and create growth opportunities through mentorship and recognition of professional accomplishments.
- Mentorship and guidance
- Recognition of specific achievements
- Overcoming business obstacles
President's Message
A message from our president on our vision, progress, and what lies ahead for our community.
Faraz Hoodbhoy
President, OPEN Silicon Valley
Welcome to OPEN Silicon Valley. I'm Faraz Hoodbhoy, the current President. It's a privilege to help steward this community, and to build on what so many of you have created over the years.
If we haven't met: I'm a longtime builder of companies, teams, and communities, as an entrepreneur, executive, engineer, and educator. I believe deeply in what OPEN stands for: accomplished people who choose to show up for each other, open doors, and build something bigger than themselves.
OPEN Silicon Valley (OPEN-SV) is the SF Bay Area's premier network of Pakistani-diaspora leaders, rooted in the world's 5th most populous country and powered by one of the most accomplished, economically successful diaspora communities anywhere in the world. Our reach spans 10,000+ people and 3,000+ Bay Area households.
Within our community, you'll find Fortune 1000 CEOs, founders and executives behind billion-dollar exits, senior leaders at Fortune 10 companies, and standout professionals across health-tech, medicine, business, law, engineering (software and hardware), product and design, architecture, finance, consulting, HR, academia, and the arts. We're exceptional in track record, and inclusive in spirit: a community built to welcome, connect, and lift each other up. We are defined by a rare mix: high achievement + real generosity.
OPEN-SV is also volunteer-led at its core. Our impact is driven by people who give their time, energy, and credibility to create real connection, mentorship that matters, relationships that compound, and opportunities that change trajectories.
As President, my focus is simple: expand our reach and relevance, build stronger bridges with partner communities, and make OPEN more accessible, especially by creating structured ways for charter members to connect with others and by opening pathways for the next generation through micro-internships and mentorship. OPEN is near and dear to my heart, and I want it to be here, thriving, for our kids and yours.
-- Faraz Hoodbhoy
-- Faraz Hoodbhoy, President, OPEN Silicon Valley
Two Decades of Excellence
From humble beginnings to a thriving community of over 2,000 members, our journey reflects the entrepreneurial spirit and determination of the diaspora in Silicon Valley.
OPEN is a global network spanning 15 cities from Silicon Valley to New York, London, and Islamabad. Our Silicon Valley chapter sits at the heart of technology innovation, fostering a vibrant community of entrepreneurs.
For over 24 years, OPEN has established itself as the premier platform for entrepreneurs, investors, and professionals to network, collaborate, and mentor each other, helping countless professionals showcase their businesses to investors and create successful entrepreneurial ventures.
Founding of OPEN Silicon Valley
OPEN Silicon Valley was established as a chapter of the global OPEN network to serve the growing professional community in the Bay Area.
Expansion of Programs
The organization expanded its programs to include regular networking events, educational seminars, and mentorship opportunities.
Annual Conference
Launched our flagship annual conference, bringing together industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals.
1000 Members
Reached our first major milestone of 1,000 active members across all categories.
Women Forum Launch
Launched dedicated programs to support female entrepreneurs and professionals.
Digital Transformation
Successfully transitioned to hybrid events during the pandemic, expanding our reach globally.
Youth Program
Established comprehensive youth and student engagement programs.
Investment Fund
Launched $2M community investment fund to support early-stage entrepreneurs.
Elected Team
Our dedicated volunteers bring diverse expertise and passion to build a stronger community and create opportunities for entrepreneurs.
Faraz Hoodbhoy
President
Leading strategic direction and organizational growth initiatives
Mehwish Nasir
General Secretary
Ensuring governance compliance and corporate administration
Areeba Yasin
Treasurer
Managing organizational finances, budgets, and tax compliance
Ready to Join Our Community?
Become a part of OPEN Silicon Valley today. Connect, collaborate, and grow with the best minds in the industry.