05 | Saeed Selvam – Proven Steps How To Triumph Over Career Uncertainty

Ever wondered if you’re trapped in a role that looks “successful” on LinkedIn but secretly feels empty, and what it really takes to pivot without losing everything?

In this exclusive episode, Charles Achampong sits down with government relations strategist and social impact veteran Saeed Selvam for a rare, unfiltered conversation about breaking industry boxes, navigating burnout, and crafting a career with heart AND impact, even inside Big Tech.

Discover why resourcefulness is the most undervalued skill, essential lessons from crushing defeats, and the actionable mindsets that helped Saeed Selvam leap from nonprofit work to Google, then into thriving entrepreneurship. Feeling stuck in someone else’s system? Hit play before another year passes, and reclaim your momentum now.

Miss this, and risk trading your purpose for performance and never knowing what’s truly possible. These insights are real-world proven. You won’t hear them anywhere else.

Timestamped Highlights

[00:01] – The one Youth Cabinet flyer that changed Saeed’s path forever—origin stories you’ve never heard

[04:13] – The press conference that sparked a national pivot, and turned pain into impact

[06:07] – How 9/11 set off an empathy-driven mission—why you don’t need to wait for permission

[10:13] – Big Tech leap: How Saeed battled rejection, self-doubt, and the myths about career security

[14:57] – Surprising resources hidden in nonprofit work and why they’re a secret advantage in profit-driven sectors

[17:42] – Reframing risk and redefining “security”—a mindset that challenges everything

[25:57] – Putting your oxygen mask on first—the lesson Saeed wishes he learned earlier, and the price of ignoring it

[28:37] – Running for office, crashing, and finding wisdom in defeat—unfiltered truths on growth

Resources Mentioned

1. Toronto Youth Cabinet
2. Olivia Chow
3. ApplyBoard
4. Trillium Foundation
5. Laidlaw Foundation

About the Guest

Saeed Selvam is the President & CEO of Selvam Public Affairs and a leading Canadian government relations and public affairs strategist. With over 15 years in nonprofit leadership, tech (including Google and ApplyBoard), and civic activism, Saeed is known for his resourceful advocacy, bold pivots, and ability to drive impact across sectors. He’s dedicated to helping changemakers leverage policy, community insight, and entrepreneurial grit to shape the future of Canadian leadership.

🔗 LinkedIn | Website

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When We Pause is an original production hosted by Charles Achampong. Production and editing by Podcast Your Brand.