- Donate over $2 billion annually, driven by religious values, helping millions through Zakat, Sadaqah and philanthropy
- Charity organisations ensure aid reaches the needy discreetly, preserving dignity while providing healthcare, education and financial support
Interview with Mr. Ibad Ali — Senior Value Chain Analyst at Grand Mills (PJSC), UAE
PAGE: Tell me something about yourself, please:
Ibad Ali: I am a fellow member of Institute of Cost and Management Accountant (CMA) with extensive expertise in strategic cost management, financial modeling, and enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems like SAP.
Currently, as a Senior Value Chain Analyst at Grand Mills (PJSC), I specialise in cost optimisation, working capital management, and variance analysis to enhance financial efficiency.
My career has been centered around financial restructuring, profitability analysis, and implementing robust internal controls to drive sustainable growth. With a strong command over financial and management reporting, project feasibility analysis, and financial risk assessment, I have played a pivotal role in aligning financial strategies with corporate objectives across various organisations.
PAGE: It is said that approximately $2bn are donated by Pakistanis per year. What is your standpoint in this regard?
Ibad Ali: Pakistan has a deep-rooted culture of philanthropy, driven by religious and social values. Every year, Pakistanis contribute generously to charitable causes, with donations exceeding $2 billion, highlighting the growing spirit of giving in the country. A significant portion of these donations is made during Ramazan, when Zakat contributions reach their highest levels. Zakat, being an essential pillar of Islam, plays a crucial role in supporting education, healthcare, and food assistance for millions in need. Apart from this, Sadaqah (voluntary charity) also holds great importance, with people actively supporting NGOs, mosques, and various community welfare initiatives. Despite economic challenges, Pakistanis continue to give selflessly, proving that the country stands among the most charitable nations in the world. This unwavering commitment to helping others is a testament to the generosity and compassion of our people.
PAGE: Pakistanis are large-hearted people who empty their pockets at the slightest hint of another’s need. What is your perspective on it?
Ibad Ali: Absolutely, Pakistanis have always been known for their large-hearted nature. The willingness to help others, even in difficult times, is a defining trait of our people. Whether it’s a natural disaster, a medical emergency, or simply supporting those in need, Pakistanis do not hesitate to step forward. This generosity is not limited to the wealthy — people from all walks of life contribute, no matter how big or small their means may be.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Pakistani philanthropy is how quickly communities mobilise in times of crisis. We have seen this during earthquakes, floods, and even during the Covid-19 pandemic, when individuals and organisations came together to provide food, medical aid, and financial support to those affected.
It is this collective spirit that makes Pakistan one of the most charitable nations in the world. At its core, this generosity stems from both religious teachings and cultural values.
Islam encourages charity, and the concept of helping others without expecting anything in return is deeply embedded in our society. Whether it’s through Zakat, Sadaqah, or everyday acts of kindness, Pakistanis continue to prove that their hearts are as big as their willingness to give.
PAGE: Religious tradition mandates discretion in charity with the intention of protecting the identity and dignity of every beneficiary. What is your take on it?
Ibad Ali: The principle of discretion in charity is a religious mandate and reflects our deep respect for the dignity and privacy of those receiving help.
In Islam, giving is seen as a means to uplift others, and this should never come at the cost of their personal dignity. The goal is to offer support without making the beneficiary feel inferior or exposed, ensuring that charity remains an act of compassion, not humiliation. This value is deeply embedded in our tradition, and Pakistanis take it very seriously. Whether through anonymous donations, quiet acts of assistance, or offering help without seeking recognition, people go to great lengths to protect the privacy and dignity of those they support. This ensures that charity is not used as an opportunity for boasting or drawing unwanted attention to the recipients. By upholding this sense of discretion, we not only preserve the dignity of those receiving charity but also safeguard the true spirit of giving — one rooted in humility, kindness, and respect. This principle is an essential part of our religious and cultural values that continues to guide charitable practices across Pakistan.
PAGE: How would you comment on charity organisations?
Ibad Ali: Charity organisations play a vital role in channeling the generosity of Pakistanis, ensuring that aid reaches those in need. They amplify the deeply ingrained culture of giving, particularly in times of crisis, by providing essential support like food, healthcare, and financial aid. These organisations also focus on long-term solutions, such as education and poverty alleviation, helping communities in sustainable ways. Importantly, charity organizations in Pakistan uphold the religious principle of discretion, ensuring that the dignity and privacy of beneficiaries are respected. Whether through anonymous donations or quiet acts of assistance, they ensure charity remains compassionate and not humiliating.
Overall, charity organisations are essential in harnessing the collective generosity of the nation while maintaining the true spirit of giving, which is rooted in humility, kindness, and respect.