“A life well-lived is not measured by what one gains, but by how many lives one touches along the way.”

Introduction

The story of Dr. Rajaul Haider is not merely one of success and survival—it is a journey of faith, endurance, and compassion that transcends borders, challenges, and generations. Born on 28 November 1962 in Bangladesh, he entered a world where values, relationships, and resilience formed the foundation of life. His early years were shaped by the unwavering principles of his parents, Late Haji Abdul Kayum and Late Mahmuda Chowdhury, whose lives were examples of integrity, service, and humility. From them, he inherited not only a family name but also the moral strength to face adversity with courage and calmness.

His father, a respected social worker and elected council member, had witnessed his nation’s post-war rebuilding, and his efforts toward community development left a deep mark on young Rajaul. His mother, gentle and nurturing, balanced strength with tenderness, becoming the quiet force that guided the household. Growing up in a large family of eight siblings — Rajaul Haider (Raju), Rashida Akter Chowdhury Rafa, Mursheda Akter Baby, Khursheda Akter Shabe, Sultana Akter Rene, Bodruzzaman Bodrul, Kamruzzaman June, and Muazzem Shaju — Dr. Haider learned the importance of cooperation, empathy, and responsibility early on. The home was filled with the sound of laughter, shared meals, and stories of perseverance—a place where love was abundant even when resources were modest.

After completing his education and earning a Diploma in Commerce in 1982, he began the search for his own path in life. Though the times were uncertain, his determination to work hard and build something meaningful never wavered. Yet, as with all remarkable journeys, his was not without trials. His father’s goodwill toward others sometimes came at personal cost, and young Rajaul witnessed the harsh realities of life when family resources were used to settle community issues. These experiences planted in him the seed of accountability—an understanding that leadership requires sacrifice, and that helping others often means bearing unseen burdens.

When Dr. Haider stepped into the professional world, he did so with a sense of purpose. But soon, the winds of change carried him far from home. His life took an unexpected turn when he decided to move abroad in search of greater opportunities. The journey to London would redefine his destiny. What began as a step of hope became a long test of patience and resilience. Detained upon arrival and struggling in a foreign land with little support, he faced moments that could have broken anyone’s spirit. But he refused to surrender. He found strength not in comfort but in conviction—the belief that perseverance always leads to light.

When his case was finally resolved favorably, Dr. Haider began building a new life in Namur, a city in the French-speaking part of London. Those early days were not easy. Yet, amid his own challenges, he chose to help others. He opened his small space to newly arrived Bangladeshis, offering them food, shelter, and guidance when they had no one to turn to. It was a humble act, but one that revealed the true depth of his character. His heart had always been his greatest asset.

“The values we inherit become the compass that guides us long after the path has changed.”

Phase 1: Roots of Faith and Foundation of Character

The story of Dr. Rajaul Haider begins in the heart of Bangladesh, where the air was filled with the sound of prayers at dawn, the laughter of children playing barefoot in open fields, and the warmth of family bonds that defined the rhythm of life. Born on 28 November 1962, he came into a home that valued honesty, compassion, and faith above all else. His father, Late Haji Abdul Kayum, and his mother, Late Mahmuda Chowdhury, were pillars of both the household and the community—simple people with extraordinary hearts. Their lives were guided not by wealth but by the quiet dignity that comes from serving others.

From his earliest days, Rajaul grew up watching his father’s unwavering sense of responsibility. Haji Abdul Kayum was known throughout the area as a man of integrity—a social worker, a community leader, and a voice for justice in post-war Bangladesh. After the war with Pakistan, when the nation was still healing from the wounds of conflict, his father was elected as a member of the local council and later served as the Vice Chairman. He was also a businessman, managing tea gardens, markets, and other ventures that supported many families in the area. Yet, his greatest wealth was not material—it was the respect and trust he earned from the people he served.

His mother, Mahmuda Chowdhury, was the gentle strength of the family. She balanced a home filled with love, laughter, and discipline. Her humility and kindness left a mark on everyone she met. She was deeply spiritual, believing that kindness was the highest form of prayer. To young Rajaul, she was not only a mother but also a teacher who instilled in him the importance of patience, humility, and gratitude.

The household was lively and warm, with eight siblings sharing stories, meals, and dreams under one roof — Rajaul Haider (Raju), Rashida Akter Chowdhury Rafa, Mursheda Akter Baby, Khursheda Akter Shabe, Sultana Akter Rene, Bodruzzaman Bodrul, Kamruzzaman June, and Muazzem Shaju. It was a home where everyone had a role to play—older siblings helped the younger ones study, and every festival was a shared celebration of unity. Even in times of financial strain, there was no shortage of laughter or love. Dr. Haider would often recall how, despite the modest means, his parents ensured that every child felt valued and supported.

“Every beginning is fragile, but the strength to continue turns uncertainty into destiny.”

Phase 2 : The First Steps Toward Responsibility

The second phase of Dr. Rajaul Haider’s life began with quiet determination and an open heart ready to face the world. Having completed his Diploma in Commerce in 1982, he stood at a significant turning point where youthful dreams met the realities of adult responsibility. Bangladesh, during that time, was a country rising from years of struggle, striving for stability and growth. For a young man like Rajaul, this era brought both opportunities and challenges—a chance to build a meaningful life while shouldering the hopes of his family and the lessons of his upbringing.

From a very early age, Dr. Haider had seen how deeply his father, Late Haji Abdul Kayum, valued community service. His father’s dedication as an elected council member and Vice Chairman in their region had inspired him. He often watched his father mediate community disputes, support local workers, and guide the less fortunate. These memories shaped his sense of duty. But unlike many who inherit leadership roles, Rajaul chose to earn his path through effort, humility, and perseverance. He believed that before leading others, one must first learn to lead oneself.

With his education complete, he began looking for work opportunities that would allow him to contribute to his family’s finances. His goal was not only personal success but also stability for those he loved. He started by helping in small business ventures, applying his understanding of commerce and finance wherever he could. However, in a developing economy like Bangladesh at the time, steady work was not easy to find. The transition from a student to a working adult tested his patience and determination.

Despite the challenges, Dr. Haider remained positive. He carried with him his father’s timeless advice—“If you stand by the truth, life will stand by you.” Each morning he would leave home with quiet hope, walking through the busy markets of Dhaka or nearby towns, seeking opportunities, meeting people, and learning the rhythm of business life. These early experiences, though modest in scale, became his first real lessons in leadership. He learned how to manage people, negotiate fairly, and value trust above profit.

“The true measure of a person is not how he stands in moments of comfort, but how he rises after the fall of faith and fortune.”

Phase 3 : Trials of Integrity and the Strength of Conscience

Life, for Dr. Rajaul Haider, had always been about choices guided by values rather than convenience. As the 1980s unfolded, he found himself stepping deeper into the real world—one where the lessons of his upbringing were constantly tested. After completing his Diploma in Commerce in 1982, he had already begun exploring paths of work and responsibility. Yet what awaited him was not just the journey toward stability, but an awakening to the moral weight of integrity and sacrifice.

His father, Late Haji Abdul Kayum, was more than a parent; he was a living example of leadership grounded in honesty. As an elected council member and later Vice Chairman, he was deeply respected in the community. But with that respect came expectations, and with expectations often came misunderstanding. The family’s position in society meant they were not immune to public scrutiny or personal trials.

One such test arrived unexpectedly—a challenge that would shape Rajaul’s understanding of justice and personal strength for years to come. A relative, involved in a transport and license-related venture, had sought his father’s endorsement. Out of trust and goodwill, Haji Abdul Kayum had offered his support. But when complications arose and the license was cancelled, whispers began spreading through the community. The matter escalated into a financial and social burden.

Rather than defending himself with arguments or distancing from the issue, Haji Abdul Kayum did something that left a lifelong imprint on his son’s heart—he chose to shoulder the responsibility himself. He sold a part of the family’s ancestral land to repay the loss, ensuring that no shadow of blame or dishonor would touch their name.

For young Rajaul, this was not merely an event—it was a defining moment. He watched in silence as his father, a man of authority, bowed to the moral demands of his conscience rather than the pride of his position. It was painful, yet profoundly inspiring. It showed him that integrity is not about being right in the eyes of others, but about staying right in the eyes of one’s soul.

Note of Thanks

As this biography of Dr. Rajaul Haider comes to its closing note, it stands as a heartfelt reflection of a life built on compassion, resilience, and faith. Behind every chapter of his journey are countless hearts that have guided, supported, and inspired him along the way.

Dr. Haider extends his deepest gratitude to his parents, Late Haji Abdul Kayum and Late Mahmuda Chowdhury, whose values of honesty, generosity, and perseverance became the foundation of his life. Their blessings have been his guiding light through every storm and every success.

He expresses profound thanks to his family, whose love has been his greatest strength. His beloved wife, Mrs. Nargis Sultana, and his children, Tabassum Haider Labe, Rahat Haider Robe, and Rukaya Haider Laiba, have walked beside him through every season—celebrating victories, understanding challenges, and sharing the quiet joys of togetherness. Their constant belief in him has been the courage behind every decision he made and the comfort behind every hardship he overcame.

He also conveys heartfelt appreciation to his extended relatives, mentors, and friends, especially those who stood by him during his most trying times—believing in him when life tested his spirit. Their encouragement has been the invisible force behind his achievements.

To the Bangladeshi community in London and to all who have worked with him through welfare associations, social projects, and charitable causes, Dr. Haider expresses his sincere admiration. Every collaboration has been a reminder that kindness grows stronger when shared.

Lastly, he bows his head in gratitude to God Almighty, whose mercy has shaped his path and granted him the strength to serve others.

This biography is not just a story—it is a tribute to every soul that touched his life, helped him rise, and walked beside him. For Dr. Rajaul Haider, gratitude is not merely a feeling—it is a way of living, every single day.

Thank You
– Dr. Rajaul Haider