A Strong Heart: An Autobiography in Progress

A Strong Heart is the truly inspiring journey of a young man from Pakistan who made Australia home and created an extraordinary life. While building a business empire and contributing to the development of the new nation of Timor-Leste and its people, his success has not been without challenges. But with a strong heart and the support of a loving family, Sakib Awan has shown resilience in the face of life's setbacks. What more could one hope to achieve in a lifetime?

"You have done immense good for our country, and we must all feel indebted to you." - José Ramos-Horta AC, Nobel Laureate (1996), Prime Minister (2006-2007), and President (2007-2012) of Timor-Leste.

"As one of our largest private-sector employers, and one that places importance on building and enhancing the professional development and skills of his staff, Sakib is making a substantial contribution to our nation-building endeavour." - Xanana Gusmão, President (2002-2007) and Prime Minister (2007-2015) of Timor-Leste.

"Sakib ... what a success you have made of your life in Australia and in Timor-Leste! What a great contribution you and Neelo have made to both of your adopted countries. Yours is a wonderful story that I know will inspire others." - Shane Stone AC, Chief Minister of the Northern Territory (1995-1999).

"An inspiring story about perseverance, hard work, grit and the art of negotiation. Its accessible style and real-world relevance lends itself to a wide audience, be it someone interested in learning about entrepreneurship or the immigrant experience." - Dr Faris Khan, Assistant Professor of Anthropology, SUNY Potsdam, NY.

From three credit cards to a business employing hundreds of staff. World leaders describe Sakib Awan as one of Timor-Leste's most successful business leaders. His new book tells you how he did it.Sakib Awan's autobiography is an inspirational migrant success story of courage, resolve and entrepreneurship in the face of adversity. It shows how Sakib built his first business and won 3 Australian Export Awards ... only to lose everything overnight in the Asian Finance Crisis ... and how he rebuilt into a business that employs several hundred people.If you dream of personal and financial success, Sakib's story shows that it can be yours. To achieve it you need a fire in your belly, focus, and you need to dream larger than you can imagine.