Dr. Amjad Saqib honoured with the ‘Brain of the Year 2025’ award

LONDON: Dr. Muhammad Amjad Saqib, the renowned Pakistani social entrepreneur and founder of Akhuwat, has been awarded the prestigious “Brain of the Year Award 2025” by The Brain Trust. The announcement was made at a ceremony held at the British House of Commons, with Raymond Keene OBE, Chairman of The Brain Trust and Grand Chessmaster, presenting the award.

The Brain Trust, established in 1990 by Tony Buzan, the inventor of Mind Maps, is dedicated to advancing global mental health through research, support, and funding for organisations and individuals that promote mind-improving and healing activities. The “Brain of the Year Trophy” is the highest accolade awarded by the organisation, recognising individuals who have made remarkable contributions to enhancing cognitive and mental well-being.

Raymond Keene OBE highlighted Dr. Saqib’s immense contributions to society, particularly in microfinance. “Dr. Saqib, as the founder of Akhuwat, the world’s largest Islamic microfinance organisation, has revolutionised the sector by offering interest-free loans to the underserved, based on principles of compassion and altruism,” Keene remarked.

Founded in 2001 with a modest seed fund of just $100, Akhuwat has disbursed over $1 billion in interest-free loans, changing the lives of more than 6 million families across Pakistan. Dr. Saqib has empowered marginalised communities, fostering economic independence and dignity.

The Brain Trust’s citation praised Dr. Saqib for his groundbreaking work in microfinance and its transformative effect on global mental health and human development. “His leadership at Akhuwat has not only alleviated poverty but also uplifted the human spirit,” the citation read. “Dr. Saqib exemplifies how innovative thinking and compassionate action can address some of the world’s most pressing challenges.”

Raymond Keene OBE emphasised that Dr. Saqib’s dedication to social justice, mental well-being, and community empowerment aligns with The Brain Trust’s mission to promote mind-improving initiatives. “Dr. Saqib’s life’s work stands as a testament to the profound impact one individual can have on society’s collective consciousness and well-being,” Keene said.

Dr. Saqib joins a group of previous laureates, including the late Professor Stephen Hawking, astronaut Senator John Glenn, former World Chess Champion Garry Kasparov, and neuroscience expert Baroness Susan Greenfield. This recognition further solidifies Dr. Saqib’s legacy as a leading force for positive change.