FPCCI has pledged continued support for the Shahid Afridi Foundation (SAF), with the country’s business leaders, corporate executives and philanthropists joining an event to strengthen private-sector backing for humanitarian initiatives across Pakistan.
The Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FPCCI) hosted “An Evening with Shahid Afridi”, honouring the former Pakistan cricket star for his sporting achievements and philanthropic work.
Business community backs humanitarian initiatives
FPCCI President Atif Ikram Sheikh said the apex trade body would encourage and mobilise the business community to support SAF’s programmes in healthcare, education, housing, disaster relief and access to clean water.
He praised Shahid Afridi’s transition from a national sports icon to a prominent humanitarian figure, saying his philanthropic work through SAF represented an enduring legacy beyond cricket.
“The business community recognises that our economic growth must run parallel to our corporate social responsibility,” Sheikh said, highlighting SAF’s efforts to expand healthcare and education opportunities for underserved communities.
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Afridi calls for stronger private-sector role
Shahid Afridi thanked FPCCI for its hospitality and support, urging industrialists and entrepreneurs to play a greater role in nation-building.
He said the business community remained essential to the success of large-scale humanitarian programmes. Afridi also expressed his willingness to serve as a brand ambassador for Pakistani exports internationally to promote industrialisation, employment and social development.
The gathering also included a presentation on SAF’s ongoing projects and its grassroots development work. Business representatives expressed support for stronger partnerships between charitable organisations and the private sector to address Pakistan’s socioeconomic challenges.
FPCCI seeks nationwide collaboration
FPCCI Senior Vice President Saquib Fayyaz Magoon said trade bodies could help create a sustainable structure for corporate philanthropy.
He said FPCCI would work with SAF to connect its development programmes with the corporate social responsibility frameworks of affiliated chambers and associations across Pakistan.
FPCCI Vice President and Regional Chairman Sindh Abdul Mohamin Khan added that regional chambers were ready to support fundraising and awareness campaigns for SAF.
He said trade bodies could also serve as operational partners for projects such as school construction and water filtration facilities.
Guests highlight role of sports and service
The event featured DIG Traffic Pir Muhammad Shah, President of the Sindh Police Sports Board, and Commodore Imran Khalid, SI (M), Chief of Staff ComCoast, Pakistan Navy, as Guests of Honor.
Pir Muhammad Shah praised the initiative and said sport could promote discipline and unity among young people, while humanitarian work could channel those values towards building a healthier and better-educated society.
Commodore Imran Khalid also highlighted the importance of national service beyond professional responsibilities. He praised Afridi’s efforts to support marginalised communities and welcomed the collaboration between FPCCI and SAF.
