Meet our Founder

Ambassador M. Serajul Islam

An uncompromising patriot and champion of freedom and democracy
— Ambassador Iftikarul Karim

A Visionary

The 2024 revolution in Bangladesh was a profound moment of national awakening, a collective call for democracy, justice, and the right to self-determination. This uprising presents Bangladesh with a rare second opportunity to build a nation grounded in fairness, progress, and global engagement.

At this historic juncture, Bangladesh Empowered, Inc. stands as the torchbearer of visionary nation-building strategies laid by Ambassador Serajul Islam, whose diplomatic career and unwavering dedication to his homeland inspired the Foundation’s creation.

His vision for Bangladesh is one of self-reliance, robust international partnerships, and the empowerment of its people through leadership, education, and diplomacy. Inspired by his vision, the Foundation aims to fulfill the aspirations of the 2024 revolution by aligning the country with global opportunities and fostering a new generation of leaders capable of shaping a prosperous and just future. 

A Lifetime of Service

Ambassador Islam began his distinguished diplomatic career under Pakistan and continued to represent Bangladesh after its independence in 1971, with prominent postings across the globe, including as Ambassador to Egypt, concurrently to Greece, Cyprus, Sudan and Ethiopia, and Japan, as well as postings earlier in his career to Australia, India, China, and the United States. But beyond his official titles, what truly set Ambassador Islam apart was his fearless voice—one that relentlessly spoke truth to power. 

After retirement, Ambassador Islam dedicated himself to standing against the autocratic rule of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and the Awami League regime. With great personal risk, he used his writings, speeches, and blog posts to expose the corruption and authoritarianism that had taken root in Bangladesh. In a political environment where dissent was often met with force, Ambassador Islam modeled the courage of conviction, proving that words could be more powerful than weapons. 

Fearless Leadership

Despite the repression and political dangers posed by the regime, Ambassador Islam continued to publish in prominent Bangladeshi newspapers. His work was not mere commentary—it was a call to action, urging Bangladeshis to reclaim their rights and their democracy. He inspired a generation of young activists and played an intellectual role in the 2024 student-led protests that eventually overthrew Hasina’s government. 

Ambassador Islam's commitment to truth embodied the age-old adage that the pen is mightier than the sword. His intellectual courage became a beacon for those fighting for democracy in Bangladesh. In his writings, he fearlessly critiqued the regime’s human rights abuses and lack of democratic governance, galvanizing public opinion and providing a moral framework for resistance. His voice never wavered, even when speaking out posed a risk to his safety. 

His courage and foresight paid off in his final year, as he lived to see the culmination of student protests that brought down the regime he had long opposed. It was a fitting conclusion to a life of service, where he fought not with weapons but with the power of truth and ideas. 

Beyond his political contributions, Ambassador Islam was a man of great personal integrity. He was a scholar with degrees from the University of Dhaka and Brock University in Canada, an accomplished athlete, and a devoted family man. But it is his role as a fearless truth-teller that will be remembered most. 

In a world where silence often accompanies tyranny, Ambassador Islam stood out as a rare figure—someone who not only dared to speak up but did so with eloquence, conviction, and moral authority. His legacy should serve as an inspiration not just for Bangladesh but for all nations fighting against injustice. 

His Analyses & Recommendations for the Future of Bangladesh

Ambassador Serajul Islam's legacy lives on through his extensive writings, which provide a strategic roadmap for a democratic, resilient, and globally engaged Bangladesh. His articles go beyond critiquing authoritarian governance; they offer actionable insights into building a nation rooted in justice, economic strength, and international cooperation.

Explore his comprehensive archive of writings and commentaries and discover the transformative vision he crafted for Bangladesh’s path forward.

A bright star who radiated his brilliance both in isolation and in a constellation! Give him a piece of paper, he was a prolific writer. Give him a platform, he was a charismatic and brilliant orator.
— Dr. Rashiduzzaman, Professor Emeritus in Political Science
He fought against Sheikh Hasina’s fascist regime with the mightiest of swords - his pen. His contributions to our revolution will be duly recognized.
— Dr. Dilara Chowdhury, Dhaka University

Recognition

  • “On behalf of The Dhaka Forum (TDF), we unanimously adopt a vote of thanks and expresse our deep sense of appreciation because of your relentless writings and arguments for a free and fair election for a truly democratic Bangladesh. Your stance has been vindicated by all and sundry."

    Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed, Former Governor, Bangladesh Bank (Central Bank)

  • "Our deepest appreciation to Ambassador Islam for his insightful analyses over a prolonged period of time when there was much scepticism about the direction in which our domestic and international policies were heading. His timely articles in the print media has acquired a substantial following among thoughtful readers and has perhaps influenced patriotic political leaders."

    Ambassador Iftikharul Karim