Abul Khair Group, one of Bangladesh’s leading conglomerates, has honoured six individuals with the “M-Rise Hero” award for their contribution to social change despite limited resources and persistent challenges.
The recognition was conferred at the M-Rise Gala Night held on Thursday at InterContinental Dhaka, featuring documentary showcases, cultural performances and award presentations.
Popular actor Shakib Khan handed over the honorary crests to the winners in the presence of Abul Khair Group Group Head of Corporate Affairs and Legal Sheikh Shabab Ahmed.
The six awardees were recognised for diverse initiatives. Joy Barua Lablu from Chattogram was honoured for developing affordable bionic hands for people with disabilities.
Md Rostom Ali from Cox’s Bazar was recognised for his Ma-Baba Foundation, which supports neglected elderly people and orphaned children.
Md Abdul Kaiyum from Dhaka was awarded for his long-term work in rescuing and treating stray animals. Md Rizwan from Chattogram was recognised for his “Education for One Taka” initiative for underprivileged children.
Mariam from Cox’s Bazar was honoured for empowering coastal women through seaweed farming, while Prosenjit Kumar Saha was recognised for his “Ucchash” initiative focused on education, skills development and health awareness.
Shakib Khan said the initiative highlights “real-life heroes” whose work often goes unnoticed and can inspire younger generations.
Sheikh Shabab Ahmed said M-Rise reflects the group’s commitment to social development alongside business growth, rooted in its founding vision.
Awardees said the recognition would encourage them to expand their initiatives and reach more beneficiaries. Organisers said M-Rise will continue as a platform to highlight grassroots change-makers in future editions.
