Anas Niaz
Nationality: Pakistan
Organization Name: Bioniks
Impact Region: Southeast Asia
About the Social Business: Bioniks is a social enterprise dedicated to transforming the lives of individuals with limb differences and physical disabilities. Founded in 2016 by Anas Niaz and his team, Bioniks focuses on developing cutting-edge, AI-powered, brain-controlled prosthetics that are not only affordable, but also highly functional and tailored to the unique needs of each user. With innovative manufacturing processes and a deep commitment to environmental sustainability, Bioniks has generated over PKR 180 million into the Pakistani circular economy and prevented 138 tons of carbon emissions. They have empowered over 400 individuals to not only regain their independence in society, but also recover mentally and emotionally, through extensive counseling and mental health support. Through its robust social media campaigns and media outreach, Bioniks has reached over 12.2 million people globally, raising awareness and promoting inclusivity for persons with disabilities.
About the Y&Y Fellow: Anas Niaz’s journey into social entrepreneurship is rooted from his childhood fascination with science fiction, robots, and superheroes. He achieved a bachelor’s in mechatronics engineering at SZABIST in Karachi, where he excelled both academically and in extracurricular activities, serving as the President of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers Club and SZABIST Lions Club International. After graduating, Niaz worked as a consultant in product design and development. His pivotal moment came when he received a request for an Iron Man-themed prosthetic arm for a 5-year-old boy. Niaz realized the immense potential to merge his love for robotics with a social mission. This moment inspired the founding of Bioniks, where he currently serves as Chief Visionary Officer.