It is a pleasure to provide this testimonial in support of Mr. Abu Taher, whose longstanding \commitment to the Bangladeshi community in Tower Hamlets is widely respected. Through his leadership in cultural, educational, and charitable initiatives, he has made a significant impact on the lives of many—both in the UK and in Bangladesh. His work reflects deep compassion, integrity, and a strong sense of civic duty.
As Founder and Executive Chairman of the Sir William Beveridge Foundation, I recognise the strong alignment between Mr. Taher’s efforts and our mission to promote welfare, education, and care for the vulnerable. His initiatives, particularly in supporting the elderly and disadvantaged, are exemplary.

I have known Abu Taher since 1987, and over the years I have witnessed his tireless dedication to community service and cultural development. As the founder of the Shanghati Literary Society, Abu has created a lasting platform for young British-Bangladeshis to explore their literary and creative heritage. His own passion as a writer and dramatist continues to inspire others. He also uses his community-based accountancy firm to provide employment, mentorship, and support to local residents in Tower Hamlets.
Abu’s commitment extends beyond the UK. He actively raises funds and personally supports numerous charitable projects in Bangladesh, with a focus on women’s empowerment, disaster relief, elderly care, and poverty alleviation. His work is always guided by compassion and a strong sense of duty to uplift others. I am proud to call him a friend and wholeheartedly support this recognition of his exceptional service.

I have known Abu Taher for over 30 years and deeply admire his outstanding contributions to both the literary and charitable spheres. As the Editor of Janomot, the UK’s first ethnic minority newspaper, I have witnessed his tireless efforts to preserve and promote Bengali culture in Britain.
Abu is a humble yet visionary leader who has blazed a trail through initiatives like the Shanghati Literary Society, Golapganj Festivals, and the British Bangladeshi Cultural Spirit. He is also widely respected for his charitable work in Bangladesh, where his leadership has positively impacted the lives of countless individuals. He is truly a pillar of the community and richly deserves recognition for his lasting impact.

II have known Mr. Abu Taher for over 35 years. Since his student days, he has been actively involved in writing articles, poetry, and dramas, contributing significantly to Bengali literature. In the UK, he engaged young people in Tower Hamlets in Bengali language and literary activities, helping preserve the language for future generations. He also played a key role in establishing the Sanghati Literary Society in the UK, which later expanded to Kolkata, Canada, and Bangladesh.
In Bangladesh, Mr. Taher funded initiatives such as T5 tailoring centres to support underprivileged women and organized charitable projects, including eye treatment camps for elderly people in Golapgonj, Sylhet. I have personally witnessed the positive impact of his work on the community.

Mr. Abu Taher has made significant contributions as a community leader and humanitarian within the British-Bangladeshi community in the UK. He played a key role in the success of the **Golapganj Festival 2023**, helping bring communities together to celebrate culture and heritage.
He has been recognised for his charitable work supporting underserved communities in both the UK and Bangladesh, receiving the **Outstanding Philanthropic Service Award** from the Golapganj Social & Cultural Trust UK in December 2023 and the **Social Excellence Award** from the Golapganj Education Trust. Through his accountancy firm **Mahi & Co Accountancy**, founded in 1999, he has supported many individuals and organisations by providing professional guidance, mentoring young people, and offering assistance to those in need.

Mr. Abu Taher has played a leading role in the **Shanghati Literary Society since its founding in 1988**, helping it grow into one of the respected British-Bangladeshi cultural organisations in the UK. Through his leadership, the organisation has promoted literature, poetry, and cultural exchange while supporting and encouraging many young writers.
He has also been actively involved in a range of humanitarian initiatives, including organising free eye camps, establishing tailoring training centres for underprivileged women, and supporting community development projects in rural Bangladesh. His work reflects a strong commitment to voluntary service, cultural development, and improving the lives of communities both in the UK and Bangladesh..

I am a practising barrister for more than thirty years and I was awarded the MBE by HM Queen Elizabeth ll in 2002 for services to the Muslim communities in East London. I have known Abu for more than three decades as a member of the East London community and I can bear witness to the fact that he is an accountant by profession who has been running a formidable accountancy firm in the heart of East London.
Abu has carried out a great deal of benevolent and charitable works in the community and has reached countless needy people. He stands head-and-shoulders above his peers for his superb social community involvement.

Mr. Abu Taher has supported the Bangladeshi community through his community-focused accounting firm, assisting local business owners and entrepreneurs while also providing complimentary training to students in accounting and finance to help them develop professional skills.
He has also contributed to promoting Bengali literature and cultural heritage, encouraging participation from the younger generation and helping preserve literary traditions within the community. In addition, he has played an important role in organising cultural gatherings that bring people together and strengthen unity within the British-Bangladeshi community.