“Just a data girl living in the DATA WORLD!”

I’m Rafia Aqil, a dedicated and passionate advocate for data-driven decision-making and the implementation of sustainable software systems. My professional journey is anchored in the belief that the fusion of advanced research with real-world applications can lead to meaningful change. I aspire to bridge the gap between academia and industry, continually seeking opportunities to learn, innovate, and contribute to the evolving landscape of technology and data science.

I proudly identify as “An Agent of Change,” a title that reflects my commitment to driving progress through knowledge and creativity. My career is a continuous learning journey where I immerse myself in interdisciplinary research, focusing on the development of conceptual models that unlock new opportunities in machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI). My work is fueled by a desire to create ethical frameworks for ML and AI deployment, ensuring that data governance is both robust and fair. I am passionate about designing systems that empower decision-makers, enabling them to harness the power of AI to generate actionable insights while remaining mindful of systematic biases.

My academic background, including a Master’s degree in Information Systems & Design and Data Science from the University of Toronto, has equipped me with a strong foundation in process mining, data science, and software implementation. I have also honed my skills in digital communication and design, which I apply to my work as a technologist and food blogger at OMGies.com, where creativity meets technology.

In my current role as a Senior Solutions Engineer at Databricks, I support the Health-Life Sciences vertical within the Field Engineering organization, where I provide enterprise-level solutions that blend technical expertise with strategic vision. My journey also includes experience as a founding Solutions Architect at Involve.ai and as a Software Engineer/Developer at the Royal Bank of Canada, where I contributed to digital transformation initiatives.

I am deeply committed to using data to solve complex business problems, creating sustainable expansion opportunities, and ensuring that the AI systems we build are not just intelligent but also ethical and fair.