Mahmud Hasan MBE is a distinguished British-Bangladeshi community leader, renowned for his lifelong commitment to social change and improving the lives of marginalized communities. Born on August 6, 1952, in Boraikandi, Sylhet, Bangladesh, he has dedicated much of his life to advocating for people with special needs, and promoting education and healthcare services for disadvantaged groups.
Since 1984, Mahmud Hasan has been the Chief Executive of APASEN, a leading social care organization in the UK that provides services for individuals with special needs. His role at APASEN has been pivotal in expanding the organization’s reach and impact, especially in supporting people with autism and multiple disabilities. As the head of APASEN International, a global charity, Hasan has worked tirelessly to raise awareness of autism and neurodevelopmental disorders, providing critical support services and educational resources worldwide.
Hasan’s dedication to community development extends beyond his work at APASEN. He has been instrumental in the creation of specialized educational facilities for children with learning disabilities, working closely with the British All Party Parliamentary Group on Bangladesh and Phoenix School (London). This collaboration resulted in the establishment of a specialized school and day center that follows the British curriculum, providing essential services for children with neurodevelopmental disorders.
In addition to his professional roles, Mahmud Hasan has been a passionate volunteer and advocate for social issues since his arrival in the UK in 1979. He has played a key role in raising awareness of community concerns at the policymaking level, especially within the voluntary sector. His contributions to the Bengali Workers Action Group helped the organization acquire its own premises in 1982, named the Surma Centre, which served as a vital community hub. Further, Hasan’s work with Camden Council led to the successful rehousing of 110 Bangladeshi families in 1984.
Hasan’s commitment to the betterment of his community was recognized through the founding of the British-Bangladeshi Honours Forum, which connects individuals who have received royal honors, creating a network to inspire and empower future generations. His role as Convenor of the Kidney Foundation Sylhet UK Chapter showcases his dedication to healthcare, particularly in supporting vulnerable populations in Bangladesh with critical medical initiatives.
Born into a respected Muslim family, Hasan’s early years were marked by his involvement in the Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971, where he contributed to the country’s independence. His student activism in the 1960s against the regime of Ayub Khan also demonstrated his commitment to justice. After independence, Hasan worked with the Bangladesh Red Cross Society on rehabilitation efforts in the war-torn nation.
Mahmud Hasan made history as the first British-Bangladeshi councillor elected to Camden Council in 1994. He has served on various boards, including those of Camden Law Centre, Voluntary Action Camden, and the Camden Police Consultative Committee. He is also the current Chairman of the Consortium of Bengali Associations (CBA). In recognition of his extensive community work, Hasan was awarded an MBE by HRH Queen Elizabeth II in 1999.
A dynamic global leader, Hasan has delivered keynote speeches at prestigious events, including the 78th United Nations General Assembly Sideline Conference. His work continues to inspire and make a lasting impact both in the UK and internationally.