Dr. Alan Ali
A Lifelong Seeker of Light, Love, and Truth

Dr. Alan Ali bridges technology, education, and human development. A self-taught computing pioneer in 1990s Kurdistan, he has spent the last 25+ years building systems that empower—from Iraq’s first internet café to purpose-driven leadership platforms.
His journey began with two unused DOS machines in a university lab during the early 1990s. While others waited for access, Alan seized it — teaching himself to code, explore operating systems, and understand digital tools at a time when formal computer education barely existed in the region.
At Khak TV, he became a quiet force of transformation. He digitized the publishing process, introduced color separation using CorelDRAW, and built the station’s first internal network. Most remarkably, he launched a televised text-submission program that allowed viewers to dedicate songs and share cultural content in real-time — making it one of the world’s earliest examples of text-based social media delivered via mass broadcast. It sparked daily engagement and influenced how local stations interacted with audiences across Iraq.
Alan later co-founded Kurdsat TV, designed its enduring daffodil logo, and trained a generation of media staff in digital tools. His work laid the technological and cultural foundations for a new era of Kurdish media.
As Iraq’s telecom sector opened, Alan helped launch the country’s first GSM network with Asiacell, configured some of Kurdistan’s first internet connections, and founded the nation’s first internet café. He went on to establish Dar Al Iraqiun, introducing Iraq’s first electronic voucher management system, revolutionizing telecom and retail distribution across the country.
Yet, Alan’s work is not confined to infrastructure. A graduate of Harvard Business School’s Advanced Management Program and a lifelong learner, he sees technology as a tool for awakening—not just efficiency. Today, he leads SPARK, an initiative that merges ancient insight, ethical leadership, and digital platforms like Canvas LMS to guide youth and leaders alike toward inner clarity, strategic thinking, and conscious action.
He believes education is not a career — it is a calling. Through teaching, mentoring, and public seminars, he strives to light the way for others, just as technology once lit the path for him.
“When you are able, then you are responsible”— A core belief that has guided Dr. Alan Ali’s life and leadership.
Dr. Alan Ali continues to consult for businesses, advise leadership teams, and support grassroots innovation. Whether as a speaker, board member, or community builder, his mission remains the same: to be a spark for meaningful change.