• Russell T. Ahmed

  With more than 20 years devoted to ICT development, Russell T. Ahmed prioritised several initiatives as BASIS president to realise the goals of Smart Bangladesh and is dedicated to push forward a ‘3x3 Framework’ that envisions the government, industry and academia to collaborate on human resource development, research and promotion towards boosting Bangladesh’s IT exports.

  Driven by his core principle, every member matters, Ahmed held four BASIS Members Meet across Bangladesh. His efforts saw a record-breaking 65% growth in BASIS membership swelling to over 2,400 from 1,456 in January 2022 by April 2024.

  Ahmed led the way to organise a series of promotion campaigns which generated valuable leads for Bangladeshi IT firms and strengthened networks among commercial banks to help BASIS members get easier access to credit and his efforts also include collateral free financial support up to BDT 1 crore for his constituents. Additionally, he has lobbied for cash incentives and ERQ facilities for IT firms.

  On the other hand, projects like the Bangladesh-Miyazaki ICT Engineers Educational Training (BMEET) Project, BMEET+ and TopSE bear testimony to the campaigns yielding rich dividends. Under his leadership BASIS joined such organisations as PUM Netherlands Senior Experts, CBCCI, KOTRA and ICTA. BASIS members now export to a staggering 137 countries.

  During his tenure, BASIS became a headline partner of Global Sourcing which is UK’s flagship sourcing event and promoted Bangladesh in the UK, Austria, Hungary, Germany, Belgium, France and Slovakia. BASIS also participated GITEX Global 2023 in Dubai. Along the way Ahmed, as the president of BASIS, also stewarded the largest ever SoftExpo in Bangladesh in 2023.

  Russell T. Ahmed introduced the 'BASIS Luna Shamsuddoha Award' as a tribute to Luna Shamsuddoha, a trailblazer in the ICT industry, to celebrate accomplishments of women. He was instrumental in creating landmarks on Bangladesh’s ICT calendar with the likes of BASIS ICT National Awards, NASA Space Apps Challenge Bangladesh, BASIS Outsourcing Award, BASIS Tech Job Fair and APICTA Awards. He was a driving force behind a 10-episode TV show, Road to Smart Bangladesh, that shed light on critical issues highlighting the importance of ICT in Bangladesh’s vision for development.

  Under his leadership, the BASIS Institute of Technology & Management (BITM) expanded its training programme BASIS-Skills for Employment Investment Program (SEIP) and following its success, BASIS and BITM are set to spearhead the Skills for Industry Competitiveness and Innovation Program (SICIP). Ahmed's leadership in training more than 60,000 young ICT enthusiasts is a testament to his resolve and determination. As CEO of CLASSTUNE, Russell T. Ahmed heads the leading learning management system (LMS) platform and a key component of the Sheikh Russel Digital Lab Project benefiting over 450,000 students. His other venture, Team Creative, is a system integration firm involved in a variety of eGovernance projects.

  An MBA from IBA of Dhaka University, Ahmed has previously held the office of secretary general of the Internet Service Provider Association of Bangladesh (ISPAB) as well as that of BASIS secretary general, senior vice president. He has previously been COO of Aamra Networks, a leading internet service provider where he was instrumental in defining the company's operational strategy. His tenure as chief marketing officer at QUBEE marked the launch of WiMax Internet in Bangladesh, significantly enhancing broadband access and positioning the company as a trailblazer. Furthermore, his insights as the Chief Strategic Officer at Fiber@Home, a national telecommunication transmission network (NTTN) operator, have been widely commended.

• M Rashidul Hasan

  A man with strong core industry personality and experience is always required to shape the fate of the business in different segments and Mr. M Rashidul Hasan is Managing Director and CEO of Systech Digital Limited, who contributed to its continuous success and improvements with the core industry standpoint. He always strived for building a better life and a better nation.

  Mr. Hasan has been serving the ICT industry for the last 23 years. All through his career, he contributed building technology-based service organs of the organization and became very successful professionally and the same purview contributed SDLs’ initial build out and rapport creations aligning to the top industry standards. With his enterprising leadership, SDL earned popularity as a customized software solution provider for both government and corporate sector of Bangladesh and outsource application development partner of companies in Japan, USA, Canada & some EU countries.

  For his great leadership, he has been elected in the ICT Industry Association BASIS and served multiple terms as in senior positions including Vice President and contributed on Industry development and Digital Bangladesh vision.

  Moreover, his contribution towards Bangla Computing and overall ICT development in Bangladesh is remarkable. The very name itself glitters in remembrance of total business operation of Systech Digital Ltd. as it is successfully booming up in the relevant market in home and abroad.

• Uttam Kumar Paul

  Uttam Kumar Paul is described as a visionary businessman with proactive tendencies, a knack for team building, and a natural curiosity. He's recognized as a troubleshooter who is passionate about enhancing both processes and people. With a solid foundation in understanding business requirements, software development, and management, he's regarded as a professional of integrity. Uttam has a track record of success in strategic planning and implementing best practices. He's credited with elevating a small software company into a pioneering entity with top-notch software solutions. Known for his leadership qualities, Uttam excels in reengineering business processes, promoting continuous improvement, facilitating lively transforming sessions, fostering consensus, empowering colleagues, delegating tasks effectively, and assembling resilient teams capable of overcoming challenges. He's commended for his adept management of human and financial resources.

  Uttam led the team responsible for the success of Troyee Software, a prominent product in the local market. With over 11 years of experience across various sectors, he ventured into the ICT industry in 2001. After completing his post-graduation at the University of Dhaka, he gained exposure to software professionals while working in pharmaceutical industries as a Business System Analyst, contributing to the development of necessary solutions. In 2003, Uttam founded Best Business Bond Ltd. (3BL) to provide a platform for achievers and launched Troyee Software from this platform in September 2004. To promote IT utilization, Uttam tirelessly organized free seminars and workshops, identifying a shortage of skilled professionals in software-based business functions requiring diverse computer skills. In response, he developed a step-by-step tutorial called "Computerized Business Operations (CBO)," which received widespread acclaim from job-seekers. Additionally, he played a pivotal role in designing an innovative "Training Methodology for Software Users," facilitating rapid software familiarization for new users. Collaborating closely with the support team, Uttam designed and implemented "Sustainable Support Service Norms" for the Customer Care Team, enabling them to efficiently serve a large customer base with a small team. His passion for new experiences led his company to lead a partnership with two companies in developing an e-ticketing system with NFC technology for NEC Corporation, Japan, with support from JICA.

  Within BASIS, Uttam served on the Executive Council as an elected Director for multiple terms, fulfilling roles such as Secretary General, Treasurer, and Director on various boards. Throughout his tenure, he actively engaged in policy advocacy and contributed his best efforts to achieve organizational goals alongside other EC members. Despite encountering challenges, such as customer skepticism towards domestic software companies compared to foreign counterparts, Uttam remains optimistic about the industry's potential growth and recognition, believing that one day, both the community and the nation will acknowledge its capabilities..

• AKM Ahmedul Islam BABU

  AKM Ahmedul Islam BABU, serving as the Founder & CEO of TechKnowGram Limited, brings with him an extensive background of over 27 years in BPO, outsourcing, the software industry, and the Japanese market. He is widely acknowledged as a trailblazer in the ICT industry, having occupied pivotal roles at various multinational corporations, including NIIT, Metrocomia South Asia, BJIT, SeBPO, and AtomAP. Under the umbrella of TechKnowGram Limited, Ahmedul Islam BABU spearheads the delivery of tailored web-based solutions catering to sectors such as ERP, AI, Robotics, and more. Furthermore, he is the visionary behind Sobjanta AI, an innovative AI-based generative solution originating from Bangladesh. With a steadfast foothold in both the Japanese and US markets for over 24 years, TechKnowGram emerged as a strategic ally for the Department of ICT (DoICT), the Bangladesh Armed Forces, Road and Highways Department (RHD), and prominent international donor agencies, particularly JICA and the World Bank, contributing significantly to global clients across Japan, Canada, Europe, Malaysia, and the USA.

  Since 1998, Ahmedul BABU has played an instrumental role within BASIS, assuming key responsibilities as the Director of BASIS and serving as the Chairman of the BASIS Japan Desk. Notably, he pioneered the establishment of the inaugural BASIS Japan Focus Group in 2016 and currently oversees vital standing committees focused on International Market Development and Digital Education. His affiliations extend to esteemed organizations such as FBCCI, JBCCI, BCS, and e-CAB, along with being a Life member of the CTO Forum of Bangladesh. In addition to these roles, Ahmedul BABU has previously served as a Director of BACCO and contributed as a Local consultant at JICA Bangladesh, showcasing his comprehensive expertise and commitment to advancing Bangladesh's ICT landscape both domestically and internationally.

  Within the current BASIS board, Ahmedul BABU has been notably active in positioning Bangladesh's ICT industry in the international market, particularly focusing on Japan. Through the BASIS Japan Desk, he orchestrated a dedicated event for Japan, drawing a significant number of Japanese entrepreneurs, fostering collaboration between companies from both nations. Following the successful conclusion of B-JET with JICA and the University of Miyazaki, BASIS is now rolling out B-MEET. This initiative aims to equip 100 entrepreneurs from BASIS member companies with basic Japanese language skills and business culture understanding. Additionally, two B2B matchmaking events between Bangladesh and Miyazaki companies have yielded collaborative outcomes. Furthermore, the implementation of B-TopSE, a new ICT upgrade program, is underway, with JICA, BCC, and BASIS collaborating as partners.

  Beyond his expertise in management and business, Ahmedul BABU has a background in journalism. He previously held the position of executive editor at the Monthly Computer Barta and served as a senior correspondent for the Bangladesh Observer. Furthermore, he is the founding president of the Bangladesh ICT Journalist Forum (BIJF). Ahmedul BABU holds Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Applied Physics Electronics and Communication Engineering from the University of Dhaka, alongside an MBA degree from the Presidency University of Bangladesh and ACMP 4.0 certification from IBA, University of Dhaka.

• Iqbal Ahmed Fakhrul Hasan

  First local ERP maker Iqbal Ahmed Fakhrul Hasan is a well-known name in the ICT community. He has accomplished major milestones which earned him a reputation in international platforms. With his IT entrepreneurial tour de force, he was able to introduce info-tech in every walk of life. For the past 20 years he is putting great efforts to establish and run ventures like, developing ERP solution, Unified Messaging System, e-Gov System, Security and Managed Services.

  His most successful enterprise, ‘Divine IT Limited’ became one of the largest software and IT service providers in the country. Recognizing the successes of the organization, the government has approved Divine IT Limited as Private STPs for the country. The company is currently employing about 200 employees.

  He is always credited for his extraordinary leadership and dedication to develop an international standardized platform for independent ERP and software services by using local resources. Since 2005 under his leadership, his team has built a highly adaptable ERP solution named PrismERP. Now it serves more than 400 enterprises in 40 sectors, including the major successful implementation in the largest public gas utility company named ‘Titas Gas’.

  The solution has been awarded as a champion ERP solution in the National Productivity Award 2016 and 2018 by the Ministry of Industries; it also won the BASIS National ICT Awards 2017, APICTA Awards 2017, WITSA Award 2020, and got the best solution provider of the year in The Daily Star ICT Award 2022 for the local market. These have been possible due to his strong educational background in computer science as well as his talent in the strong team building capacity. In addition, he arranged and joined many national and international seminars that enriched him with interpersonal skills and ideas to impart impactful knowledge. For the sake of improving his knowledge about new IT businesses, he traveled beyond the border to get in touch with the C-executives of the tech giants.

  Known as an amiable man, Iqbal is extremely passionate about advancement technologies and its business implications. He enjoys sharing what he has learned and earned from his successful ventures. He has always supported start-ups and young entrepreneurs by sharing the valuable tricks he has learned along the way of his journey. His active involvement with BASIS for the last couple of years for helping budding software companies, boosting up the local market, and sensitizing the government have contributed to the total development of the ICT industry. His dream is to build a strong bridge between the IT industry and the academies with flourishing young software developers.

• M Asif Rahman

  M Asif Rahman is an accomplished leader and entrepreneur who has been recognized with the prestigious TOYP 2022 Award. He has demonstrated exceptional leadership in fostering growth and development in the community and recently started as the founding President of JCI Dhaka Founders.

  Asif’s entrepreneurial journey began in 2004 with the launch of his first initiative, ARCom, which serves as a testament to his innovative and forward-thinking mindset. Since then, he has been instrumental in the establishment and growth of over 25 pioneering companies, through his visionary leadership and strategic investments. His contributions to the business community have been widely recognized and have made a significant impact on the industry.

  After Asif established ARCom in Bangladesh, he successfully expanded in the United States. In the next few years, he founded several businesses and invested in many, including Facebook, Leanplum, and Trance.

  He has been described by The Daily Observer as a “Bangladeshi Serial Entrepreneur" and the ‘only successful global tech founder from Bangladesh’ by the local community.

  As an entrepreneurial executive, Asif is the Founder of WPDeveloper, a software product company that is powering up more than 5 million websites with innovative software solutions. He is also the Founder of easyjobs, which solves and streamlines the recruitment process for 10,000 global companies.

  Asif is also the Chairman of Geeky Social, Ex-CEO of weDevs, and Managing Partner of Analytify. He was the Director of Founder Institute, an idea-stage accelerator & startup launch program, as well as helped to empower youth at Future Startup as Director.

  He has invested in Green Grocery for organic food, L’espresso for Coffee, Chalk Pencil for sustainable learning material for kids, safe food brand Protein Market, SMEVai for one-stop business & accounting solutions,s and more.

  From his initial involvement with the IT section in 2004, pioneering the technology field and building one of the first software product companies from Bangladesh, Asif has continually been at the forefront of innovation in business and technology.

  Among the fields in which he has been actively involved as founder, executive, board member, or investor are: software, media, IT service, consumer technology, agrotech, food, crowdsourcing, social networking, content marketing, analytics, and many others.

  Asif is a regular speaker at international conferences and has been named the Top Investor and tech founder in Bangladesh.

  He is well known in the business startup community for discovering and mentoring high-potential entrepreneurs and has been profiled for his ability to help other founders to grow their businesses, now also serving as a member of the Advisory Board at BASIS.

• Didarul Alam

  Didarul Alam is recognized as one of Bangladesh's most dynamic and accomplished entrepreneurs, distinguished by a remarkable profile that sets him apart in the business arena. As one of the youngest entrepreneurs in the nation, Didarul has achieved extraordinary success across diverse sectors, including e-commerce, software, and communication industries.

  His journey to success is marked by an unparalleled knowledge and expertise in information technology and business, propelling him to the pinnacle of achievement at a remarkably young age. While he served as the 2018 elected director of the Bangladesh Association of Software and Information Services (BASIS), Didarul has spearheaded notable initiatives such as the development of the National Digital Media Buying Policy and enhancing the National ICT Award to the next level. Additionally, his role as the convener to organize the Nasa Space Apps Award led Bangladesh to win its first champion award in one category, showcasing his pivotal role in shaping the country's technological landscape.

  A graduate in business management, Didarul embarked on his professional journey at two of Bangladesh's leading telecom brands and a national business conglomerate. Starting as a Management Trainee at Warid in 2006, he honed his skills over three years before transitioning to Banglalink Digital Communications as a Group Icon Manager in 2010. Later, he played a c rucial role in shaping Bangladesh's largest retail chain, Shwapno, as a Strategic Planner, contributing significantly to its staggering sales revenue of 1 billion dollars annually. His tenure at these esteemed organizations provided him with invaluable experience in strategic planning and brand management.

  In 2013, Didarul took the entrepreneurial leap by establishing SHOOTING STAR LIMITED, an IT firm that swiftly became a beacon in the industry for professional software development services and skill development programs for IT professionals. Building upon this foundation, he later founded ADON COMMUNICATIONS, a digital advertising agency, and BIT BYTE TECHNOLOGIES LIMITED, further showcasing his versatility and dedication to the IT sector. Today, his ventures stand out for exporting homegrown software to international markets including London, Germany, the United States, and beyond.

  Throughout the past decade, Didarul's career has been characterized by consistent success, underscored by his unwavering professionalism, leadership qualities, and visionary approach to creating a digital world. With over 15 years of experience in brand management, strategic planning, and digital marketing, Didarul has played a pivotal role in shaping digital business models and workforces in Bangladesh, aligning with the government's vision to establish a Digital Bangladesh. His contributions continue to inspire and drive meaningful change in Bangladesh's technological landscape, solidifying his status as a pioneering entrepreneur and visionary leader in the nation.

• K.A.M. Rashedul Mazid

  K.A.M. Rashedul Mazid, a beacon of innovation and leadership in the digital realm, was honored as the "Best Emerging Leader in Digital Advertising Technology" by The Global Economic UK in 2023. As the Managing Director of RAISE IT Solutions Ltd, Rashedul continually pushes digital technology's boundaries.

  A distinguished academic, he holds a Master's degree in CSE from UIU and a Bachelor's degree from IIUC. His groundbreaking contributions include Bangladesh's premier programmatic advertising network, "RITS Ads Network," and the widely acclaimed "Rits Browser," with over 2.7 million worldwide downloads and the prestigious APICTA Award. Rashedul's impact on the digital landscape is undeniable.

  He shares insights at esteemed events like Google I/O Dhaka and conducts workshops at Google headquarters in the USA, solidifying his thought leadership. As a judge for renowned competitions like the Basis National ICT Awards and Mujib 100 Idea contest, he fosters innovation.

  Rashedul's influence transcends industries, with leadership roles in BASIS committees and mentorship for initiatives like NASA Space App Challenge. His remarkable achievements are showcased on MasRanga TV's 'Ranga Shakal,' magnifying his visionary leadership. His dedication to nurturing talent underscores his mission to propel Bangladesh into a digital powerhouse.

• Syed Abdullah Jayed

  Syed Abdullah Jayed, the Founder & CEO of NEXT Ventures and Finalytics, has a journey marked by resilience during hardships and innovation of opportunities. He was merely in Class 7, at the age of 13, when he earned his first 1,500 Taka, marking the beginning of his entrepreneurial path. His curiosity was his main driving force, and he was captivated by problem-solving, finding inspiration from the success stories of tech giants like Microsoft and Google. His quest for knowledge knew no end, as he was inspired by both great historical leaders like Alexander the Great and Julius Caesar, as well as modern personalities like Bill Gates, Elon Musk, Zuckerberg, and more.

  Despite facing many challenges, like his start from humble beginnings in a middle-class family and having limited internet access in his hometown, Syed Abdullah Jayed never strayed from his dreams. Even when his parents' colleagues doubted him, he stayed determined to prove the world wrong. Inspired by his mentors and fueled by his desire to "Change Lives," he remained focused on his goal to create an impact – a footprint that would forever mark the globe.

  In January 2016, NEXT Ventures was born out of this passion, as he recognized the transformative potential of technology, particularly in the FinTech sector. Serving as a vibrant digital business group, NEXT Ventures hosts a wide range of successful companies and brands, including Finalytics, Incenteco, FundedNext, and GrowthNext. Now, in just 2 years, FundedNext alone hosts over 150k+ traders and over 7 Million+ monthly web visitors from around the world.

  As a self-made individual who rose from modest origins, Jayed values his community. Through NEXT Ventures, he values partnerships and connections, ensuring inclusivity while reaching diverse audiences. The goal, boldly set, is to positively impact 50 million traders by 2033, and to serve 195+ countries in 13 different languages. Through initiatives like CSR events, NEXT Ventures contributes to society, including aiding Bangladesh with remittances. They also engage with affiliates, leveraging their support to spread their message globally.

  Over the years, Jayed received numerous awards and accolades, recognizing his achievements and contributions. One such award which was highly prestigious came in 2023 with the Honourable Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina awarding him the Bootstrapping Excellence Award, a tribute to his dedication to innovation and growth, and setting the stage for even greater achievements. Furthermore, Jayed’s contributions to the ICT sector are significant, aligning with the vision of a Smart Bangladesh.

  With all the past obstacles far behind, Jayed looks ahead with visions of a future of boundless opportunities. With plans for expansion and new ventures coming his way, the first bootstrapped unicorn of Bangladesh, NEXT Ventures, is positioned to lead the way in the global marketplace. Jayed and NEXT’s journey is a testament to resilience, innovation, and the power of unwavering determination. The dream of ‘Changing Lives’ is ever closer, and as he continues to inspire others, his story serves as a solid reminder that anything is possible with hard work and vision.

• Biplob Ghosh Rahul

  Biplob Ghosh Rahul, a visionary entrepreneur hailing from Barishal city in South Bengal, has carved a remarkable path in the realm of logistics and entrepreneurship. His journey is characterized by academic excellence, professional achievements, and a commitment to fostering inclusive growth and sustainable practices.

  Rahul's academic journey commenced with the completion of his BSC in 2008, followed by an MBA from East West University in 2013. His thirst for knowledge and global exposure led him to seize the opportunity to undertake a post-graduation model course at Hong Kong University, sponsored by the World Bank, in 2012, leveraging his experience as a program manager at the Bangladesh Association of Software and Information Services.

  In 2014, Rahul's dedication and potential were recognized by the US State Department, awarding him a prestigious scholarship for Professional Fellows. This transformative experience, during which he worked with McMahon Marketing in OK for 35 days, ignited his passion and equipped him with invaluable skills, laying the groundwork for his groundbreaking venture, eCourier.

  Currently serving as the founder and chief executive officer of eCourier.com.bd, Rahul has revolutionized the logistics landscape by pioneering the first private 360-degree logistics company operating on environmentally sustainable principles. Under his leadership, eCourier has achieved remarkable milestones, delivering 30 million parcels through a network of 1300 field agents and 300 management employees, with a notable emphasis on female inclusion, constituting 39% of the workforce.

  Rahul's innovative framework for the logistics industry has set a benchmark, earning him the prestigious 'Uddokta' (Entrepreneur) award in 2014. His contributions extend beyond business success, as he actively engages in initiatives that drive systemic change. As the initiator of the CLTP (Central Logistics Tracking Platform) and a member of the National Logistics Policy Advocacy Team, Rahul champions advancements that enhance efficiency and transparency in the sector.

  Recognized as the best Digital Entrepreneur of 2020 by JCI Bangladesh, Rahul's influence extends to the broader entrepreneurial ecosystem, where he continually seeks avenues to empower others. In 2022, he launched an initiative to support 100 small or cottage entrepreneurs across Bangladesh, leveraging his social channels to amplify their initiatives and facilitate connections with relevant stakeholders for assistance.

  Biplob Ghosh Rahul's journey exemplifies the transformative power of entrepreneurship driven by innovation, sustainability, and inclusive growth. His endeavors not only redefine industry standards but also inspire a new generation of changemakers poised to create a positive impact on society and the environment.

• Syed Mohammad Kamal

  Syed Mohammad Kamal, Country Manager, MasterCard Bangladesh has more than 33 years of experience in diversified industries starting from FMCG to Financial Institutions.

  Started his career in early 90s with FMCG industry, worked at companies like ACI, Berger Paints for quite a long period at different leadership roles. Then he has changed the industry from FMCG to financial Institution and joined global leader in remittance industry – Western Union where he worked for more than 6 years, set up Western Union Bangladesh Office, raised their network & revenue substantially. He left Western Union as Country Manager, Bangladesh.

  Syed Mohammad Kamal has joined Mastercard in early 2013 as Country Manager Bangladesh and started MasterCard Bangladesh office at the same year. Mastercard has achieved great momentum in Bangladesh market under his leadership. During over 11 years tenure in Mastercard, he has launched hundreds of diversified payment solutions & increased the customer banks from 3 to 21.

  Under his leadership, Mastercard has launched online payment gateways in Bangladesh, work very closely with the eCommerce community of the country to ease up online payment. He has also launched numerous cards with BASIS to ease up payment for ICT industry & Freelancers. Also ensure first payment tool to Social Media Entrepreneurs, Women entrepreneurs, Millennials & Virtual Card Network for Corporate industry in Bangladesh. He brought in interoperability between MFS & Cards in 2019 by launching “Add Money” facility & “Credit Card Bill Payment”. Mastercard has pioneered BanglaQR – National Standard of interoperable QR payment under his leadership.

  He is actively participating in several policy making initiative of the Govt of Bangladesh & different trade bodies.

  Kamal is perceived as a very widely accepted Thought Leader in Bangladesh, A visionary leader, a real change maker with successful track records with a high skill in negotiation. He is an active member of different social organizations. Kamal was the Vice President of American Chamber of Commerce in Bangladesh (AmCham) since 2019 for consecutive 2 terms. He was the Executive Committee Member of Foreign Investors’ Chamber of Commerce (FICCI) for consecutive 2 terms & elected as Director of BASIS in 2022.

  Kamal is a MBA and passionate about traveling & spending time with family & friends.

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