Azad Moopen: Healthcare Entrepreneur/Philonthropist 

Azad Moopen (born in 1953) is an Indian healthcare entrepreneur and philanthropist, best known as the founder and Managing Director of Aster DM Healthcare, a global conglomerate in the healthcare industry. Born in 1953 in Kalpakanchery, Kerala, India, Moopen pursued his medical degree (MBBS) at Calicut Medical College and completed his MD in general medicine. After practicing medicine for a few years in India, he moved to Dubai in the mid-1980s, where he began his entrepreneurial journey in healthcare.

In 1987, Moopen founded Aster DM Healthcare, which started as a single clinic in Dubai. Over the decades, it expanded into a major healthcare network, operating in multiple countries across the Middle East, India, and Southeast Asia. Aster DM Healthcare now includes hospitals, clinics, diagnostic centers, and pharmacies, providing high-quality medical care to millions of patients. The group operates over 500 healthcare facilities, including 29 hospitals, 121 clinics, and over 450 pharmacies. Moopen’s vision for accessible and affordable healthcare has played a significant role in transforming the healthcare landscape, particularly in the Gulf region.

Azad Moopen’s contributions to healthcare have earned him numerous accolades and recognitions. He was awarded the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman in 2011 by the President of India for his contributions to Indian expatriates and healthcare. Additionally, he has been recognized in various global forums for his leadership in the healthcare industry.

Apart from his business ventures, Moopen is deeply involved in philanthropic work through the Dr. Moopen Foundation. The foundation focuses on healthcare, education, and social welfare initiatives, providing free medical care, supporting disaster relief, and offering scholarships to students.

Azad Moopen’s commitment to improving healthcare and his philanthropic efforts have made him a key figure in the global healthcare industry, contributing not only to the growth of healthcare infrastructure but also to the well-being of communities in need.

Azim Hashim Premji: Businessman

Azim Hashim Premji (born in 1945) in Bombay (now Mumbai), is a prominent Indian businessman, philanthropist, and the former chairman of Wipro Limited, a leading multinational corporation in the IT services sector. Recognized as one of India's most influential business leaders, Premji transformed Wipro from a small hydrogenated cooking fat company into a global IT powerhouse.

After the sudden death of his father in 1966, Premji left his studies at Stanford University and returned to India to take over the family's business. Under his visionary leadership, Wipro diversified and expanded into the technology sector in the 1980s. This strategic shift was pivotal, allowing Wipro to capitalize on the burgeoning IT industry and establish itself as a major player on the global stage.

Premji's business acumen and ethical leadership have earned him numerous accolades, including being named one of the world's most influential people by TIME magazine and receiving the Padma Bhushan in 2005 and the Padma Vibhushan in 2011, India's third and second-highest civilian awards, respectively.

Beyond his business success, Premji is also renowned for his philanthropy. In 2001, he founded the Azim Premji Foundation, focused on improving the quality of education in India. His commitment to social causes is reflected in his decision to sign the Giving Pledge, promising to donate the majority of his wealth to charitable causes. As of 2024, he has donated over $21 billion to philanthropy, primarily aimed at education and healthcare.

Premji's legacy is characterized by his dedication to both business excellence and social responsibility. His work continues to inspire future generations of entrepreneurs and philanthropists, highlighting the profound impact that business leaders can have on society through ethical practices and unwavering commitment to the greater good.

Farah Malik Bhanji: Stepping Forward with Purpose and Grace

Farah Malik Bhanji stands as a powerful example of how quiet determination, ethical leadership, and an eye for opportunity can shape a lasting business legacy. As the Managing Director of Metro Brands Limited, one of India’s largest and most trusted footwear retailers, she represents a new generation of Indian business leaders—rooted in family values, yet confidently steering tradition into the future.

Metro Brands traces its origins to 1947, when Farah Malik Bhanji’s father, the late Rafique Malik, laid the foundation of what would become a household name in Indian footwear. From a single store in Mumbai, Metro grew steadily through decades of discipline, customer trust, and a sharp understanding of India’s evolving consumer aspirations. Farah Malik Bhanji inherited not just a business empire, but also a philosophy: that long-term success is built on quality, consistency, and respect for people—customers and employees alike.

Under her leadership, Metro Brands has undergone a remarkable transformation. Farah Malik Bhanji has played a key role in modernising the company, strengthening its professional management structure, and expanding its retail footprint across India. Today, Metro Brands operates a vast network of stores under well-known labels such as Metro Shoes, Mochi, Walkway, and Crocs (India), catering to diverse age groups and price segments. The company’s successful public listing further cemented its position as a strong, transparent, and future-ready enterprise.

What distinguishes Farah Malik Bhanji’s leadership is her calm yet decisive approach. In an industry driven by fast-changing fashion trends, she has ensured that Metro Brands remains agile without losing its core identity. Her focus on design innovation, supply-chain efficiency, and customer experience has allowed the company to stay competitive while maintaining profitability and trust—an increasingly rare balance in modern retail.

Beyond boardrooms and balance sheets, Farah Malik Bhanji’s journey holds deep inspirational value, particularly for women in business. In a sector traditionally dominated by male leadership, she has carved her space through competence rather than noise. Her rise reflects the power of perseverance, learning, and leadership that does not seek the spotlight but earns respect through results.

Farah Malik Bhanji also embodies the idea of responsible success. Metro Brands is known for stable employment, ethical business practices, and long-term partnerships with manufacturers and suppliers. This commitment reflects her belief that sustainable growth must uplift all stakeholders, not just shareholders.

Today, Farah Malik Bhanji is counted among India’s most influential businesswomen, and one of the wealthiest Muslim women entrepreneurs in the country. Yet her story is not defined by numbers alone. It is defined by continuity with change, by leadership grounded in values, and by the courage to quietly step forward when responsibility calls.

In an era of rapid disruption, Farah Malik Bhanji’s journey reminds us that true inspiration lies in building institutions that endure—and in leading them with humility, vision, and unwavering purpose.

Irfan Razack: Businessman

Irfan Razack (born in 1953) is a prominent Indian businessman and the Chairman and Managing Director of Prestige Group, one of South India’s largest and most successful real estate development companies. Born into a business family in Bengaluru, Razack's journey into the real estate sector began with his deep understanding of the market and a vision to transform the urban landscape of his hometown.

Razack co-founded Prestige Group in 1986, alongside his brothers Rezwan and Noaman Razack. What began as a modest enterprise soon expanded under his leadership into a diversified conglomerate with interests in residential, commercial, retail, and hospitality sectors. Prestige Group's landmark projects, such as UB City, The Forum Mall, and Prestige Shantiniketan, have redefined the skyline of Bengaluru and other major cities in South India, earning the company a reputation for quality, innovation, and excellence.

Irfan Razack’s leadership style is marked by a relentless focus on customer satisfaction, ethical business practices, and a commitment to delivering world-class projects. His ability to anticipate market trends and adapt to the evolving needs of urbanization has been key to Prestige Group’s sustained growth. Under his stewardship, the company has received numerous awards and accolades, including the FIABCI Award for Excellence and the Best Developer in India award from various real estate forums.

Beyond his business acumen, Razack is known for his philanthropic endeavors. He is actively involved in various charitable initiatives, particularly in the areas of education, healthcare, and community development. His contributions to society have earned him recognition as a responsible corporate leader.

Irfan Razack's vision and entrepreneurial spirit have made him a leading figure in the Indian real estate industry. His legacy is reflected in the transformation of Bengaluru into a modern metropolis, with Prestige Group playing a pivotal role in shaping the city’s growth.

MP Ahammed: Businessman/ Philonthropist

M.P. Ahammed (born in 1957) is an Indian entrepreneur and the visionary founder of Malabar Gold & Diamonds, one of the largest and most successful jewelry retail chains in the world. Born in a small town in Kerala, India, Ahammed had humble beginnings, initially working in the family business that dealt with spice trading and agro-products. Despite having no formal higher education, his entrepreneurial spirit led him to explore new business avenues, and in 1993, he ventured into the jewelry business by establishing Malabar Gold & Diamonds.

Under Ahammed’s leadership, Malabar Gold & Diamonds has grown from a single outlet in Kozhikode, Kerala, to an international brand with over 300 showrooms across India, the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and the United States. The company is renowned for offering a wide range of gold, diamond, and platinum jewelry, and it is recognized for its commitment to quality, transparency, and customer satisfaction. Malabar Gold & Diamonds operates with the unique motto "Make Life Beautiful," reflecting Ahammed’s vision of enhancing customer experiences through luxurious yet accessible jewelry.

Ahammed’s business acumen and innovative approach to retail have been key to the brand’s success. He pioneered several customer-centric initiatives, including providing assured buyback policies, lifetime maintenance, and transparent pricing, which helped build trust among customers. His emphasis on ethical practices in sourcing materials and crafting jewelry has also contributed to the brand’s global reputation.

Beyond his business achievements, M.P. Ahammed is known for his philanthropic endeavors through the Malabar Group’s charitable arm. The company allocates a significant portion of its profits to various social initiatives, including healthcare, education, housing, and environmental sustainability. Ahammed strongly believes in giving back to society, and his charitable projects have positively impacted countless lives, particularly in underprivileged communities.

M.P. Ahammed's entrepreneurial journey, marked by his integrity, innovation, and commitment to social responsibility, has made him a respected figure in the business world and a symbol of success and philanthropy. His leadership continues to inspire others in the jewelry industry and beyond.

Mecca Rafeeque Ahmed: Entrepreneurship Guided by Faith, Integrity, and Service

Mecca Rafeeque Ahmed’s life story is a powerful example of how entrepreneurship, when guided by integrity and purpose, can become a force for social good. An Indian businessman and entrepreneur from Tamil Nadu, he is widely respected not only for his commercial success but also for his unwavering commitment to ethical business practices and community welfare. His contributions were nationally recognized when he was conferred the Padma Shri Award in 2011, one of India’s f highest civilian honors.

Rooted deeply in faith and discipline, Mecca Rafeeque Ahmed built his entrepreneurial journey on principles that transcend profit. From humble beginnings, he demonstrated an early understanding that business success must rest on trust, transparency, and long-term relationships. Over the years, he established himself as a credible and visionary entrepreneur, earning respect across industries for his honesty, consistency, and people-centric approach.

What sets Mecca Rafeeque Ahmed apart is his belief that wealth is a responsibility rather than a privilege. For him, entrepreneurship has always been inseparable from service. He has consistently emphasized that business leaders must play an active role in uplifting society, especially the marginalized. This philosophy has guided his involvement in a wide range of philanthropic and social initiatives, many of which focus on education, social harmony, and humanitarian relief.

Education occupies a central place in his vision for social transformation. He firmly believes that empowering young minds is the most sustainable way to build a just and progressive society. Through his support for educational institutions, scholarships, and learning initiatives, he has helped create opportunities for students who might otherwise be denied access to quality education. His approach goes beyond charity—it is about enabling self-reliance and dignity.

Mecca Rafeeque Ahmed is also admired for his role in promoting communal harmony and ethical leadership. In an increasingly polarized world, he has consistently advocated dialogue, compassion, and mutual respect. His public life reflects a quiet commitment to bridge-building—between communities, between commerce and conscience, and between individual success and collective well-being.

The Padma Shri Award in 2011 was a recognition not just of his achievements as a businessman, but of his broader contribution to society. It acknowledged a life shaped by balance—where commercial growth coexists with moral clarity. Yet, despite such national recognition, Mecca Rafeeque Ahmed remains known for his humility. He avoids the spotlight, preferring that attention remain focused on causes rather than on himself.

Those who know him describe him as soft-spoken, disciplined, and deeply principled. Faith plays a guiding role in his worldview, influencing both his personal conduct and professional decisions. For him, success is meaningful only when it aligns with values and leaves a positive imprint on society.

Mecca Rafeeque Ahmed’s journey offers a compelling lesson for aspiring entrepreneurs: that it is possible to grow without compromising ethics, to lead without arrogance, and to give without seeking applause. His life stands as a reminder that true leadership lies not merely in building businesses, but in building trust, nurturing communities, and leaving behind a legacy of service.

Meraj  Manal: A Young Visionary Rooted in Nature  

Meraj Manal, Chairman, Himalaya Global Holding is  the young and dynamic  visionary whose journey into the world of herbal remedies began not in a laboratory or boardroom, but amidst the dense forests surrounding Dehradun, India. During long rides through these pristine landscapes—where the Himalayas descend into lush green valleys—Manal first sensed the immense, untapped potential of nature’s healing wisdom. Observing a rich diversity of medicinal plants and learning about their traditional uses ignited in him a deep curiosity and a lasting commitment to herbal wellness.

From an early age, Mr. Manal was drawn to the belief that human health and nature are inseparably connected. Inspired by indigenous knowledge systems, Ayurveda, and the quiet resilience of forest ecosystems, he began to view herbs not merely as raw materials, but as holistic agents of balance and well-being. These formative experiences shaped his conviction that sustainable, plant-based remedies could effectively address modern health challenges without compromising ecological harmony.

What truly distinguishes Mr. Manal is his ability to harmonize ancient wisdom with a modern, innovation-driven outlook. While remaining deeply respectful of traditional healing systems, he recognized the importance of scientific validation, quality assurance, and global accessibility. His vision goes beyond commerce, focusing on preventive healthcare, ethical sourcing, and the long-term benefits of natural solutions.

Under his leadership, Himalaya Wellness has grown into one of the world’s most trusted herbal brands, offering comprehensive “head-to-heel” wellness solutions. Today, the company serves customers in over 100 countries, with iconic products like Liv.52 endorsed by doctors worldwide. Himalaya champions the belief that Ayurveda, when strengthened by modern science, can deliver truly holistic healthcare. From its origins as a pharmaceutical enterprise, the organization has evolved into a global herbal health and personal care leader, with nearly 500 products reaching millions.

Grounded, reflective, and purpose-driven, Mr. M. Manal exemplifies a new generation of leaders who look to nature for answers—transforming inspiration from forest trails into a global mission for healthier lives and a more sustainable future.

Syed Mohamed Beary: Leadership Rooted in Vision, Values, and Service

Syed Mohamed Beary’s life story is a powerful reminder that true leadership is not defined by how much wealth one accumulates, but by how meaningfully that wealth is used to shape society. As the founder and chairman of the Bearys Group, he has emerged as a rare blend of entrepreneur, institution-builder, and social visionary—someone who leads not from the spotlight, but through quiet conviction and lasting impact.

Raised in coastal Karnataka in modest surroundings, Beary’s early years were shaped by discipline, faith, and a deep respect for hard work. These formative experiences would later define his leadership philosophy: progress must be ethical, success must be shared, and growth must serve a purpose larger than oneself. From the outset, his ambitions were not limited to personal advancement; they were anchored in a desire to build something enduring and meaningful.

Under his stewardship, the Bearys Group evolved into a diversified conglomerate with interests spanning real estate, hospitality, education, healthcare, and infrastructure. What distinguishes Beary’s leadership is not merely expansion across sectors, but his insistence on quality, credibility, and long-term value. Colleagues often describe him as a leader who thinks in decades rather than quarters—patient in execution, cautious in risk, and uncompromising in ethics.

Yet, it is in the realm of education that Syed Mohamed Beary’s leadership finds its most profound expression. He firmly believes that education is the most powerful engine of transformation—capable of lifting families, empowering communities, and reshaping futures. Driven by this belief, he founded and supported multiple educational institutions, including engineering and medical colleges, creating opportunities for thousands of students who might otherwise have been denied access to professional education. For Beary, these institutions are not just campuses; they are investments in human potential.

Healthcare, too, occupies a central place in his vision of leadership. Through hospitals, medical colleges, and charitable health initiatives, he has worked to make quality healthcare accessible and dignified. His approach reflects a leader’s understanding that societal progress is hollow if basic human needs remain unmet. Healing bodies, he believes, is as vital as educating minds.

Despite overseeing large enterprises and institutions, Syed Mohamed Beary remains known for his simplicity and humility. He avoids self-promotion and shuns grand rhetoric, preferring action over applause. Employees and associates speak of a leader who listens carefully, decides thoughtfully, and leads by example. Faith plays a quiet but guiding role in his life, shaping his moral compass and reinforcing his commitment to service.

Awards and recognition have followed, but Beary measures success differently. For him, leadership is validated when students graduate with confidence, when patients receive care with dignity, and when institutions stand strong beyond the individual who founded them.

In a time when leadership is often equated with visibility and power, Syed Mohamed Beary offers a different model—one grounded in vision, restraint, compassion, and responsibility. His journey demonstrates that the most enduring leaders are those who build not just businesses, but futures, leaving behind institutions that continue to serve long after they step aside.

P. Mohamed Ali: A Visionary Businessman and Philanthropist

Dr. P. Mohamed Ali, an accomplished and highly respected businessman from Thalikulam, a village in Thrissur district, Kerala, is renowned for his unwavering commitment to education and philanthropy. His multifaceted contributions span infrastructure development in Oman and India, making him a prominent figure among the Indian expatriate community in the Gulf region. 

A civil engineer by profession, Dr. Mohamed Ali arrived in Oman in 1972 and established Galfar Engineering, which has grown into Oman’s largest private-sector employer. Today, the Galfar Group operates across Abu Dhabi, Qatar, Kuwait, and India, employing over 65,000 people from diverse nationalities. Its ventures encompass civil and industrial construction, oil and gas, roads and bridges, manufacturing, heavy equipment, electrical and instrumentation, water and wastewater management, education, and hospitality. 

Contributions to Education

Dr. Mohamed Ali's initiatives in Oman’s education sector are groundbreaking. He established an Indian School, serving over 3,500 students, and the National University of Science & Technology (NUST), which commenced operations in 2018 by merging three prominent institutions:

Caledonian College of Engineering – A leading engineering institution in the region.

Oman Medical College – Training future medical professionals.

College of Pharmacy – Focused on pharmaceutical education.

Dr. Ali promoted two operator institutes providing on-the-job training for Omani nationals. Collectively, these institutions serve over 10,000 students, exemplifying his dedication to education.

Business Ventures in India

Dr. Mohamed Ali’s business interests in India have flourished in the infrastructure and hospitality sectors. His enterprises include Mfar Constructions in Bengaluru and Mfar Hotels in Kochi, which manage Le Méridien and the International Convention Centre in Kochi, as well as the Westin Hotel in Chennai. His hospitality ventures extend to Azaiba Hotels LLC (Hormuz Grand) in Oman, and two hotels under construction in the Maldives and Sri Lanka.

He is also a founding director of Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL) and Infrastructure Kerala Limited (INKEL), both of which were promoted by the Government of Kerala.

Philanthropy and Community Development

Dr. Mohamed Ali's dedication to uplifting his native village is exemplified by the Talikulam Vikas Trust, established in 2005 to provide education, employment, housing, and healthcare to his community. This ambitious initiative was successfully realized in 2010.

The P.M. Foundation, founded by him, supports education among backward communities, while the CSM Central School offers CBSE curriculum education. Dr. Ali also chairs the Social Advancement Foundation of India (SAFI), an institution providing educational opportunities to socially and economically disadvantaged groups. This institution was inaugurated by then Vice President of India, Hamid Ansari, in 2011.

Leadership Roles and Recognitions

Dr. Mohamed Ali has held numerous prestigious positions, including:

Member of the Governing Body of the Council for Promotion of Overseas Employment (Government of India).

Founder Chairman of the Oman Society of Contractors (OSC) and the Oman Petroleum Alliance (OPAL).

Vice Chairman of the Omanization Joint Committee.

His exceptional contributions have earned him global recognition and several prestigious awards, including:

Oman Civil Order Award (2002).

Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award (2004).

Honorary Doctor of Science from Glasgow Caledonian University, UK.

Lifetime Achievement Award from the Times Group (2010).

IATO Hall of Fame Award for contributions to hospitality and the Cochin International Airport.

In 2013, Dr. Mohamed Ali was honored by the President of India at the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas for his exemplary service to the nation.

Legacy of Vision and Dedication

Dr. P. Mohamed Ali continues to inspire with his visionary leadership, unwavering dedication to education, and impactful contributions to infrastructure and community development. His life’s work stands as a testament to the transformative power of compassion, innovation, and perseverance.

Shahnaz Husain – A Pioneer in the Beauty Industry

Shahnaz Husain is a renowned Indian beautician and entrepreneur who revolutionized the beauty and wellness industry, especially with her emphasis on natural and herbal products. Often hailed as the "Herbal Queen of India," Shahnaz Husain's career spans over five decades, and she has earned global recognition forher contributions to skincare, hair care, and wellness.

Born in India, Shahnaz Husain initially trained in the beauty industry in London before establishing her own beauty empire. In the 1970s, she launched the Shahnaz Husain Group, which became famous for offering a range of Ayurvedic beauty products. Her brand’s commitment to using natural, plant-based ingredients was groundbreaking at a time when most beauty products relied heavily on chemical formulations.

Shahnaz’s work is not only confined to cosmetics. She introduced a holistic approach to beauty, combining treatments with diet, lifestyle changes, and traditional Ayurvedic therapies. She developed a line of products that range from facial oils, cleansers, and hair treatments to wellness supplements, all based on the principles of Ayurveda. These products have not only earned her success in India but also in international markets, especially in the Middle East, Europe, and the U.S.

Apart from being a businesswoman, Shahnaz Husain is also a philanthropist and an advocate for women’s empowerment. She has received numerous accolades, including the Padma Shri, one of India’s highest civilian awards, in recognition of her work in the field of beauty and wellness.

Through her entrepreneurial journey, Shahnaz has inspired countless women to pursue careers in the beauty and wellness industry, and her name remains synonymous with high-quality, natural beauty solutions.

Tauseef Ahmad Mirza – Managing Director, Mirza International Ltd.

Tauseef Ahmad Mirza is the Managing Director of Mirza International Ltd., a leading footwear and leather goods manufacturing company based in India. Under his leadership, Mirza International has established itself as a prominent player in the global fashion and leather industry, known for its high-quality products and innovative business strategies.

Mirza's career is marked by his vision and strategic direction in transforming the company into a major supplier of men’s footwear, with popular brands like Red Tape and Escaro Royale under its umbrella. These brands are synonymous with stylish, durable, and comfortable footwear that caters to both domestic and international markets. His focus on quality and customer satisfaction has helped the company achieve significant growth and expansion, especially in export markets.

Tauseef Ahmad Mirza has been a driving force in building the company's strong market presence. He has successfully expanded its reach to over 30 countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, and several European nations. Under his leadership, the company has continuously evolved with changing trends in consumer preferences and emerging global markets, setting high standards for design, craftsmanship, and business ethics.

Mirza International Ltd. is also known for its commitment to sustainability and corporate social responsibility, with initiatives aimed at reducing the environmental impact of production processes. The company’s emphasis on ethical business practices and innovation has earned it numerous accolades in the industry.

As an experienced leader with a deep understanding of both the operational and strategic aspects of the business, Tauseef Ahmad Mirza continues to lead Mirza International towards new heights of success, solidifying its reputation as a global leader in the leather goods industry.

M.A. Yusuff Ali: Entrepreneur /Philanthropist

M.A. Yusuff Ali, born on November 15, 1955, in Nattika, Thrissur, Kerala, is the Chairman and Managing Director of LuLu Group International. A billionaire entrepreneur, he has transformed the retail landscape in the Middle East and India. The LuLu Group, with an annual turnover of $8.4 billion, operates over 100 hypermarkets and malls globally, employing over 65,000 people, including more than 30,000 Indians.

After completing his schooling at St. Xavier's High School, Thrissur, and earning a diploma in Business Management, Yusuff Ali moved to Abu Dhabi in 1973 to join his uncle's business. He diversified the family venture, expanding it into food processing, wholesale distribution, and retail. In the 1990s, he launched the LuLu Hypermarket chain, revolutionizing the retail sector in the UAE.

In India, Yusuff Ali has invested significantly in infrastructure, banking, and retail. His first retail venture, the LuLu International Shopping Mall in Kochi, opened in 2013 and remains one of the largest in the country. Since then, the LuLu Group has established malls in Thiruvananthapuram, Bengaluru, Lucknow, and Hyderabad. He has also acquired stakes in several Indian banks, including the Federal Bank and South Indian Bank.

A committed philanthropist, Yusuff Ali supports numerous charitable initiatives. He contributed ₹9.5 crores for Kerala flood relief in 2018 and pledged ₹50 million during the 2019 floods. His global CSR efforts include adopting schools in Gaza and Nepal and establishing a multi-faith funeral center in Sharjah.

Recognized as one of Forbes’ top Indian business leaders in the Arab world, Yusuff Ali was ranked 39th on Forbes India’s 100 Richest Tycoons list in 2024, with a net worth of $7.4 billion. Beyond his business success, he is deeply involved in social and economic welfare, particularly for the Indian diaspora in the Gulf region, showcasing his enduring commitment to humanity and progress.

Ziaullah Sharif: Building Enterprises, Serving Society

In an age where business success is often measured solely in profits and market dominance, Ziaullah Sharif stands out as an entrepreneur who has consistently linked enterprise with empathy. Known equally for his commercial acumen and philanthropic commitment, Sharif represents a model of leadership that sees wealth not merely as personal achievement, but as a responsibility toward society.

In 2021, Mr Sharid donated Rs.200 cr to set up Sheriff Foundation for charity works in Karnataka state. During an interview to ZeeSalaam – a local Urdu TV channel – Ziaullah Sheriff said that he donated Rs.200 crore from his personal wealth to set up Sheriff Foundation on the pattern of the world-renowned Ford Foundation. The Sheriff Foundation shall also construct hostels, colleges and mosques throughout the state. The foundation has already constructed Mysore orphanage. It has also constructed a huge girls’ hostel in Yashwantpur, Bangalore on the lands belonging to Central Muslim Association (CMA) – a Muslim organization.

Ziaullah Sharif’s journey as an entrepreneur has been shaped by perseverance, adaptability, and a clear ethical compass. Starting from modest beginnings, he steadily built his business interests through discipline, innovation, and an acute understanding of market dynamics. Over the years, he has been associated with ventures that emphasize sustainability, fair employment practices, and long-term value creation rather than short-term gains. Those who have worked closely with him often describe him as hands-on, detail-oriented, and deeply invested in nurturing talent within his organizations.

Yet, Sharif’s identity cannot be understood through business alone. Parallel to his entrepreneurial growth runs a deep and sustained commitment to philanthropy. Unlike high-profile charity that seeks public recognition, his approach to social welfare has largely been quiet, consistent, and community-focused. He believes that meaningful philanthropy begins by listening—understanding the real needs of people rather than imposing solutions from above.

Education has been one of the central pillars of Ziaullah Sharif’s philanthropic work. Convinced that knowledge is the most powerful tool for social mobility, he has supported initiatives aimed at providing educational access to underprivileged students. From scholarships and school infrastructure to mentoring young learners, his efforts reflect a belief that empowering minds creates lasting change. He often emphasizes that education does not merely produce professionals; it shapes responsible citizens.

Healthcare and social welfare form another key area of his humanitarian engagement. Sharif has supported medical assistance programs, relief initiatives, and community health efforts, particularly for those who fall outside formal safety nets. During times of crisis, he has been known to step forward swiftly, mobilizing resources and networks to offer relief without bureaucratic delay. For him, compassion is not an abstract value but a call to immediate action.

What distinguishes Ziaullah Sharif’s philanthropic philosophy is its integration with his entrepreneurial mindset. He approaches social challenges with the same strategic thinking he applies to business—seeking efficiency, transparency, and measurable impact. This fusion of heart and strategy has allowed his initiatives to remain sustainable and effective rather than symbolic or short-lived.

Despite his achievements, Sharif maintains a notably low public profile. He avoids self-promotion and prefers to let outcomes speak for themselves. Colleagues and beneficiaries alike point to his humility, accessibility, and moral clarity as defining traits. Faith and ethical values play a quiet but significant role in shaping his worldview, guiding both his business conduct and social commitments.

In a world increasingly divided between wealth and want, Ziaullah Sharif’s life offers a compelling narrative of balance—where success is pursued without losing sight of service. As an entrepreneur and philanthropist, he exemplifies the idea that true leadership lies not just in building enterprises, but in uplifting lives and strengthening the social fabric.