Elders of the Shia Ithna Asheri Muslim Communities around the globe have made significant contributions throughout their lives to the betterment of their communities. During the 14 th Ordinary Conference on Saturday 17 th May 2014, The World Federation presented six lifetime achievement awards. The male individuals were honoured with the traditional Gujarati turban "Paghadi" and the female individual with a “Pachedi” for their selfless services.
On Saturday 6 th September 2014, during the wiladat programme of Imam Ali-Redha (as) at the Husaini Islamic Centre in Stanmore, Ahmed Bhai Daya was honoured with a Golden Paghadi for his tireless efforts working in the community. Shabbar Dhalla, Vice President of The World Federation had the opportunity to say a few words about Ahmed Bhai before the presentation ceremony.
The Community wanted to present an award in recognition of Ahmed Bhai dedication in trying to alleviate the needs of the poor and needy and those livelihoods were lost during the various natural disasters. His energy, enthusiasm and extraordinary efforts have made difference to many lives across the Khoja as well as the Shia world.
Ahmed Bhai Daya was born in Tanzania and moved to the UK in 1966. Ahmed Bhai is a chartered accountant by profession and continues to work for himself till today. Ahmed Bhai is married to Nargis Aunty Daya, who is very well known in the ladies section and has been chair lady a number of times at Hujjat. He has been blessed with 3 sons and now grandchildren.
Ahmed Bhai is amongst the longest serving Office Bearers of The World Federation. He has served as Honorary Treasurer under four Presidents, namely Marhum Haider Haji, Marhum Mulla Saheb, Dr Hasnain Walji and then Dr Ahmed Hassam. He is well known for being the longest serving Office Bearer of the World Federation but of more interestingly, he was also the treasurer of London Jamaat from 1979 to 1981.
Ahmed Bhai’s unflinching commitment, be it in Office or not, he has been instrumental in raising millions of pounds for many of the projects of The World Federation. He continues to do so and this year, like previous years has been part of the Ramadhan Relief Fund team, where The World Federation disbursed $1.6 Million to the poor and needy this Ramadhan.
This is a telling testimony of the confidence of the donor community he enjoys. This trust has been earned by his decades of service with integrity, passion and diligence as a custodian of community finances.
The President of The Council of European Jamaats, Dr. Husein Jiwa and former President of The World Federation, Dr Hasnain Walji, presented the award to Ahmed Bhai for his illustrious and distinguished efforts to the community.
To view the presentation: Click Here