Fazle Hasan Abed (Founder of BRAC)

Fazle Hasan Abed

• Born: April 27, 1936, in Bhola, British India (now Bangladesh)
• Died: December 20, 2019, Dhaka, Bangladesh
• Role: Founder of BRAC, Philanthropist, Social Entrepreneur
• Key Contributions:
  • Early Life and Education: Fazle Hasan Abed was born into a well-educated family and showed an early interest in community service. He completed his undergraduate studies in business administration at the University of Dhaka and later pursued a scholarship to study at the University of California, Berkeley, where he earned a degree in social work.
  • Founding BRAC: In 1972, shortly after Bangladesh’s independence, Abed founded BRAC (Bangladesh Rural Advancement Committee), initially as a small relief effort for war-affected people. Under his visionary leadership, BRAC grew into one of the world’s largest non-governmental organizations, focusing on poverty alleviation and sustainable development through a holistic approach that includes education, health, and economic empowerment.
  • Innovative Programs: Abed was a pioneer in developing innovative programs that empowered women and marginalized communities. BRAC introduced microfinance, education for children and adults, healthcare services, and skills training, contributing significantly to Bangladesh’s social and economic development. His emphasis on grassroots participation and community involvement became a model for similar organizations worldwide.
  • Global Influence: Under Abed’s guidance, BRAC expanded its operations beyond Bangladesh, reaching millions of people in countries across Africa and Asia. His commitment to social justice and human rights inspired many other organizations to adopt similar approaches to development, making BRAC a global leader in the nonprofit sector.
  • Awards and Recognition: Fazle Hasan Abed received numerous awards for his outstanding contributions to social development, including the Gandhi Peace Prize in 2019 and the UNESCO-Hamdan Prize for Outstanding Practice and Performance in Enhancing the Effectiveness of Teachers. His work has been recognized internationally, highlighting the impact of BRAC on global development.
  • Legacy: Abed’s legacy continues through BRAC’s ongoing programs and the millions of lives transformed by his initiatives. His focus on education, healthcare, and women’s empowerment has had a lasting impact on Bangladesh and beyond. He is remembered as a visionary leader who dedicated his life to improving the lives of the underprivileged.
  • Philosophy: Fazle Hasan Abed believed in the power of people to drive change. He often emphasized that sustainable development requires active participation from communities and that empowering individuals is key to breaking the cycle of poverty.
• Famous Quote: “You cannot change the world without changing the way people think.”