Dr. Wali Tasar Uddin MBE DBA FRSA JP is a celebrated entrepreneur, community leader, and philanthropist whose influence spans Europe and Bangladesh. Born on April 17, 1952, in Moulvibazar, Bangladesh, Dr. Uddin moved to the United Kingdom in 1967. While working in restaurants, he pursued further education, laying the foundation for an illustrious career marked by innovation and social impact.
As the President of the European Bangladesh Federation of Commerce and Industry (EBFCI), Dr. Uddin has played a pivotal role in strengthening trade and investment ties between the UK and Bangladesh. Under his leadership, the EBFCI has expanded its footprint across Europe, fostering economic collaboration and promoting opportunities for Bangladeshi businesses. His efforts were instrumental in organizing Expo Bangladesh 2005, the UK’s first Bangladesh-focused trade exhibition, which showcased over 100 companies and highlighted the potential of Bangladeshi exports.
Dr. Uddin’s entrepreneurial ventures began in the restaurant sector, where he established several acclaimed establishments, including Verandah, Lancers, and the award-winning Britannia Spice. His dedication to excellence earned Britannia Spice numerous accolades, such as the British Curry Awards and the Good Curry Guide’s Exceptional Restaurant of the Year Award. His achievements in the hospitality industry were further recognized with the BIBA Industry Personality of the Year award and the Asian Jewel Lifetime Achievement award.
Beyond his business success, Dr. Uddin is a passionate advocate for community development and humanitarian causes. He has spearheaded efforts to provide cyclone relief in Bangladesh, raising substantial funds to construct cyclone shelters, schools, and a model village. His contributions to healthcare and education include serving as Chairman and Chief Coordinator of Sylhet Women’s Medical College and Hospital and as a Trustee of the Bangladesh Female Academy.
Dr. Uddin’s leadership extends to numerous organizations. He has served as Senior Adviser for BRAC UK, Joint Convener of the British-Bangladeshis Royal Honored Council, and advisor to the Scottish Parliament’s International Development Committee. In addition, he is a trustee of Edinburgh’s Central Mosque and the Shahjalal Mosque and Islamic Center, reflecting his dedication to fostering cultural and spiritual harmony.
In recognition of his outstanding contributions, Dr. Uddin was appointed a Member of the British Empire (MBE) in 1995 for services to race relations. He was also the first Bangladeshi in Scotland to become a Justice of the Peace and has received honorary doctorates from Queen Margaret University, Heriot-Watt University, and Edinburgh Napier University.
Dr. Wali Tasar Uddin’s legacy as a visionary leader continues to inspire entrepreneurs and young professionals worldwide. His unwavering commitment to progress, innovation, and social good stands as a beacon of hope and opportunity for future generations.