Self-taught Kashmiri techie completes 500 freelance projects while pursuing education

Srinagar : Sajid Ahmad, a self-taught tech talent from Srinagar, has emerged as a promising face in the digital freelancing world with his expertise in video editing, graphic design, web development and digital marketing.

What started as a childhood curiosity with electronic gadgets grew into a full-fledged passion for technology. “I was always curious about how things worked,” Sajid Ahmad told the news agency.

He spoke of opening devices like DVD players, emergency lights, and gaming consoles just to see what was inside. “My journey took a serious turn in 6th grade when a computer entered my life. I immersed myself in learning everything I could about computer hardware and software. That computer changed everything for me—it made me realise I could build and fix things on my own,” he said.

By 8th standard, he had become known as a tech-savvy troubleshooter in his locality — helping friends and neighbours fix their devices, whether hardware or software-related. His deep interest in tech naturally progressed toward freelancing, which he discovered during 11th grade.

“With no mentor and limited internet access, I started working locally, fixing computer issues while learning digital skills through YouTube tutorials and self-study,” Sajid said.

“I started learning coding languages for web and application development. In addition to that, I taught myself to use Photoshop, Premiere Pro, After Effects, and other creative software on my own. I had no professional course or teacher, but was determined to learn,” he added.

Sajid said his ability to communicate in English and the quality of his work helped him attract his first client within a week of starting online freelancing. “The moment gave me confidence that I could do this from Kashmir and reach people globally,” he said.

Over the years, Sajid launched his own digital agency, SajidStudios — where he offers a complete suite of services including Digital Strategy, UI/UX Design, Content Writing, Content Creation (YouTube videos, Facebook ads, etc.), Digital Marketing, Branding, Web Development and Social Media Management.

He went on to pursue a diploma and B.Tech in Computer Science Engineering. “Balancing academics and freelancing, I completed over 1000+ freelance projects in web development, content creation, branding and social media marketing,” he said. “Freelancing not only helped me grow professionally but also funded my further education, made me financially independent and eventually helped me become an entrepreneur,” he said.

Sajid said he actively mentors aspiring freelancers and unemployed youth in Kashmir, encouraging them to pursue freelancing for financial freedom. “This lack of job opportunities often contributes to stress and hopelessness among the youth. By championing freelancing, I provide more than just skill development,” he said—(KNO)