KARACHI, AUG 19 /DNA/ – Atif Ikram Sheikh, President of the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FPCCI), has apprised that the apex body organized, “An Evening with Shahid Afridi,” bringing together the country’s top business leadership, corporate executives, and philanthropists to honor the legendary cricketer and humanitarian.
During the high-profile event, the FPCCI reassured its backing for the Shahid Afridi Foundation (SAF), pledging to mobilize and encourage the business community to support SAF’s vital initiatives in health, education, housing, disaster relief, and clean water access across Pakistan.
Mr. Shahid Afridi expressed his deep gratitude to the FPCCI leadership for their hospitality and robust endorsement. He urged the industrialists and entrepreneurs present to continue playing a frontline role in nation-building, noting that the backing of the business community is the backbone of any successful large-scale humanitarian effort. He also expressed his willingness to act as the brand ambassador of Pakistani exports on the global stage to promote industrialization, employment generation and social uplift.
Mr. Atif Ikram Sheikh, President FPCCI, lauded Shahid Afridi’s transition from a national sports icon to a beacon of hope for marginalized communities. Shahid Afridi has won our hearts on the pitch for decades, but his philanthropic work through SAF is his most enduring legacy, he added.
Mr. Atif Ikram Sheikh maintained that the business community recognizes that our economic growth must run parallel to our corporate social responsibility. We applaud SAF in expanding its outreach to ensure that healthcare and education are accessible to the most underserved segments of our society, he added.
The evening featured a brief orientation on SAF’s ongoing projects; highlighting the foundation’s impact on grassroots development. The business community responded with profound enthusiasm, acknowledging the necessity of private-sector partnerships in addressing Pakistan’s socio-economic challenges.
Mr. Saquib Fayyaz Magoon, SVP FPCCI, emphasized the structural role trade bodies can play in sustaining charitable initiatives. The corporate sector of Pakistan has always been incredibly generous; but, channelizing this philanthropy through credible organizations like SAF ensures maximum impact. FPCCI will work closely with SAF to facilitate their developmental goals with the CSR frameworks of our affiliated chambers and associations nationwide. Together, we can scale these welfare projects to a level that creates real, systemic change, he added.
Mr. Abdul Mohamin Khan, VP & Regional Chairman Sindh, FPCCI, said the regional chambers are fully prepared to support fundraising and awareness campaigns for SAF. Whether it is building schools or installing water filtration plants, our regional trade bodies will serve as operational partners for the Shahid Afridi Foundation.
The prestigious gathering was further elevated by the presence of distinguished Guests of Honor: DIG Traffic Pir Muhammad Shah, President of the Sindh Police Sports Board and Commodore Imran Khalid, SI (M), Chief of Staff ComCoast, Pakistan Navy.
Emphasizing the intersection of sports, discipline, and community service, DIG Pir Muhammad Shah commended the initiative, stating that just as sports instill discipline and unity in our youth, the Shahid Afridi Foundation is channeling that same unifying energy to build a healthier, more educated Pakistan.
Echoing this sentiment, Commodore Imran Khalid highlighted the importance of national duty beyond the uniform. The dedication of Mr. Afridi shows to uplifting marginalized communities is a testament to true patriotism. We deeply appreciate the collaborative spirit demonstrated by FPCCI and SAF tonight in service of the nation, he added.
