"The Best Way to not feel sad is to get up and do something. Don’t wait for good things to Happen to you. If you go out and make someone happy, you will fill the world with hope, you will fill Yourself with Hope."
Dedication
This biography is lovingly dedicated to the two pillars of my existence—my beloved parents—whose unwavering love, values, and sacrifices have shaped the very foundation of who I am.
To my father, Mr. Soleman Hassen Joomun, whose wisdom, humility, and steadfast commitment to integrity taught me that true leadership begins with service. Your words became my compass, your life my example. In moments of uncertainty, I found strength in your quiet resilience, and in your unwavering belief in me, I discovered the courage to lead.
To my mother, Mrs. Hasina Bibi Joomun, the heart of our home, whose patience and deep compassion nurtured my dreams. You taught me the importance of empathy, prayer, and perseverance. Your unconditional love gave me the wings to fly, and your endless duas continue to protect me even today. You are the soul behind every mission I’ve undertaken.
This journey, and everything that has blossomed from it, is rooted in your sacrifices. Every award, every initiative, every voice I’ve stood up for—it all begins with you.
To my dear siblings, Mufiidah, Mushiirah and Ashfaaq and my wife Nawsheen Chummun and my best friend Yasseer Ellahebokus, Imteeaz Suneram and Annas Kheeroo—your patience and encouragement through long nights, missed moments, and relentless schedules have been my silent source of energy. Your faith never wavered, even when the road was unclear. For that, I am forever grateful.
To my mentors, Belall Maudarbux, Sheikh Ehshane Jowaheer, (Late) Imaam Inous Maudarbux, Ustaad Reshad Meerun and Mr. Hassen Karroo, colleagues, Mariam Bhoyro, Staff, and friends in community work, education, spiritual leadership, and humanitarian outreach—thank you for walking this path with me. Your belief in our shared vision has been the force that turned passion into progress. You are the unsung heroes behind every smile we’ve been able to create.
To the youth, the future change-makers, I dedicate this story to you. May you know that greatness doesn’t come from wealth or status—it comes from service, conviction, and the courage to rise. No act of kindness is ever too small, and no dream too far-fetched when driven by sincerity.
And finally, to every soul who has ever felt overlooked, unheard, or powerless—may this story remind you that from humble beginnings can emerge voices that echo far beyond borders. Stand tall in your truth. This journey is proof that service is the highest form of leadership, and that one life, when lived with purpose, can light the way for many.
Dr. Muhammad Arshad Joomun
Phase 1 : Roots of Accomplishments
I believe that every single event in life happens in an opportunity to choose love over fear.
Dr. Muhammad Arshad Joomun was born on June 29th, 1989, into a family where resilience and responsibility were deeply woven into daily life. The son of Mr. Soleman Hassen Joomun and Mrs. Hasina Bibi Joomun, Arshad grew up alongside his three siblings—two sisters who are twins and one brother. His family dynamics shaped much of his character and future path, as his father was the sole breadwinner, carrying the weight of supporting a household of six on his shoulders. This reality demanded maturity beyond his years, teaching Arshad the importance of perseverance and sacrifice from a very young age.
From early childhood, the challenges at home meant that Dr. Muhammad Arshad Joomun had to embrace responsibility not just emotionally but also financially. Despite the limited resources and the economic hardships that his family faced, he developed a steadfast determination to contribute. He began working early, accepting jobs with modest pay to help sustain his family’s needs. This spirit of unwavering support helped forge a strong work ethic and a keen awareness of the value of every opportunity.
Education was a cornerstone of Dr. Muhammad Arshad Joomun’s journey, providing a vital path toward empowerment. He attended Terre Rouge State Secondary School, earning his School Certificate in November 2005. Following this, he pursued his High School Certificate at Terre Rouge SSC, completing it in November 2007. His thirst for knowledge and commitment to personal growth propelled him beyond the conventional academic path.
In 2008, Dr. Muhammad Arshad Joomun broadened his educational journey internationally by enrolling in distance learning at the International Islamic University of Islamabad, Pakistan. By 2009, he had completed a Diploma in Islamic Values and Law. This phase was more than an academic pursuit; it was a profound deepening of his understanding of the ethical and spiritual principles that would later shape his social and humanitarian endeavors. The teachings of Islam, especially the values exemplified by the Holy Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him), instilled in him a lasting commitment to kindness, generosity, and service to those in need—principles that have become the cornerstone of his lifelong mission.
Continuing his education closer to home, Dr. Muhammad Arshad Joomun earned a Diploma in Social Work Practice from the University of Mauritius in 2011. This qualification played a crucial role in honing his practical skills and deepening his understanding of community development, social challenges, and the strategies necessary to drive meaningful change. It served as a vital bridge between his religious inspiration and social activism, equipping him with the tools to channel his compassion into structured, impactful action.
Phase 2 : Building a Career Through Dedication and Hardship
Dr. Muhammad Arshad Joomun’s professional journey is a testament to resilience, commitment, and a profound desire to serve his community. From an early age, the weight of responsibility fell heavily on his shoulders. Growing up in a modest household, where his father, was the sole breadwinner supporting the family of six, Dr. Muhammad Arshad Joomun understood the meaning of hard work and sacrifice. To ease the financial burden on his family, he began working at a young age, taking on jobs that offered modest pay but invaluable experience. These early hardships forged in him a determination to succeed and a heart dedicated to helping others.
His career began in the educational sector, where he took on the role of Administrative Clerk at Doha Academy in Curepipe from 2007 to 2010. This position marked his entry into professional life and allowed him to gain essential administrative skills while still pursuing his educational aspirations. Soon after, he advanced to Senior Administrative Clerk at Aleemiah Daarul Uloom in Phoenix between 2010 and 2012. His growing responsibilities in these roles reflected his competence and ability to manage complex administrative tasks efficiently, laying a solid foundation for his future endeavors.
Parallel to his roles in education Dr. Muhammad Arshad Joomun’s passion for community service flourished. In 2002, well before completing his diplomas, he founded M-Kids Association, a non-governmental organization focused on youth and children’s welfare in Camp Chapelon, Port Louis. This bold initiative, started when he was still a teenager, demonstrated his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to social change. Managing both his job and the growing demands of M-Kids required exceptional time management and dedication, qualities that he displayed consistently throughout his career.
In 2013, Dr. Muhammad Arshad Joomun expanded his professional influence by joining the City Council of Port Louis as a HWSC Officer in the Highways Department, a position he continues to hold. This role not only involves overseeing public infrastructure but also serves as a platform where he combines his administrative expertise with civic responsibility. Balancing this position alongside his NGO work highlights his remarkable ability to contribute to public service while championing community empowerment.
Throughout his career, Dr. Muhammad Arshad Joomun has also been a delegate and representative at various international forums, reflecting the respect and recognition he has earned beyond Mauritius. His participation in the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas conference in Bhubaneswar, India and the U.S. International Visitor Leadership Program underscores his role as a bridge between communities and cultures. Being chosen to represent Mauritius at these global events speaks volumes about his leadership qualities and the impact of his social work.
Phase 3 : The Power of Community and Collaboration
Since its founding in 2002 by Dr. Muhammad Arshad Joomun, M-Kids Association has stood as a beacon of hope and empowerment for the youth and children of Port Louis, Mauritius. What began as a small initiative driven by passion and a vision to improve the lives of disadvantaged children has grown into a robust NGO known for its comprehensive programs aimed at education, welfare, and social inclusion.
In its early years, from 2002 to 2006, M-Kids focused primarily on Youth Capacity-Building Activities, Fighting Drug Abuse, Community Feeding Programme and providing basic educational support to underprivileged children. Recognizing the critical need for academic assistance in low-income neighborhoods, the organization set up after-school tutoring centers. These centers offered free homework help, literacy classes, and basic computer skills training. The goal was simple but powerful: to bridge the educational gap that often hinders children from breaking out of cycles of poverty. By partnering with local schools and volunteers, M-Kids was able to reach dozens of children annually, instilling in them both knowledge and confidence.
M-Kids becomes a registered association in 2010. As the organization matured, its scope widened between 2007 and 2012 to include holistic child development programs. Understanding that education alone was insufficient without addressing health, nutrition, and emotional well-being, M-Kids introduced health awareness campaigns and organized regular medical check-ups in collaboration with local health clinics. Nutritional support programs were launched to ensure that children attending their centers received at least one balanced meal a day. Additionally, M-Kids pioneered recreational and creative arts workshops to foster self-expression and psychological resilience. These efforts marked a turning point, transforming the NGO from an educational support group into a comprehensive child welfare organization. M-Kids in 2013 secured its first formal space, allowing for more structured activities.
Between 2013 and 2017, M-Kids intensified its advocacy and empowerment initiatives. The organization began conducting workshops on children’s rights and social issues affecting youth, such as bullying, substance abuse, and early school dropout. It actively engaged with parents and community leaders to build a supportive environment for young people. During this period, M-Kids also expanded its reach by establishing satellite centers in neighboring communities, thus increasing accessibility for marginalized children. One of its hallmark achievements was the launch of the “Youth Leadership Program,” aimed at training adolescents to become community advocates themselves, encouraging peer mentoring and leadership development. Expansion to Rodrigues programme extended beyond Mauritius, bringing education, leadership training, and community support to children in Rodrigues in 2015.