One of Bangladesh’s leading conglomerates, Abul Khair Group, honoured six individuals with the “M-Rise Hero” award in recognition of their contributions to society and their efforts to create positive change despite various challenges.

The winners were recognised at the “M-Rise Gala Night” held on 14 May 2026 at InterContinental Dhaka. The event featured documentary screenings based on the lives of the award recipients, cultural performances, and the formal unveiling of the heroes.

Shakib Khan handed over honorary crests to the awardees during the ceremony. Sheikh Shabab Ahmed, Group Head of Corporate Affairs and Legal at Abul Khair Group, was also present at the event.

In the inaugural edition of the initiative, Chattogram-based innovator Joy Barua Lablu was honoured for developing affordable bionic hands aimed at improving accessibility for people with disabilities. Md Rostom Ali from Cox’s Bazar received recognition for supporting neglected elderly people and orphaned children through the “Ma-Baba Foundation”.

Animal welfare activist Md Abdul Kaiyum from Dhaka was awarded for his long-standing efforts in rescuing and treating stray animals. Md Rizwan from Chattogram was recognised for his “Education for One Taka” initiative supporting underprivileged children, while Mariam from Cox’s Bazar was honoured for empowering coastal women through seaweed farming. Prosenjit Kumar Saha also received recognition for his “Ucchash” initiative focused on education, skills development, and health awareness.

Speaking at the event, Joy Barua Lablu said he believed technology should improve people’s lives and described recognition for socially impactful innovation as encouraging.

Md Rostom Ali said his work had always prioritised humanity and expressed hope that more people would come forward to support humanitarian causes.

While presenting the awards, Shakib Khan said the recipients represented “real-life heroes” whose contributions were inspiring the nation beyond the spotlight. He added that platforms such as M-Rise could encourage younger generations to become more socially responsible.

Sheikh Shabab Ahmed said the initiative reflected Abul Khair Group’s long-standing commitment to social development alongside business growth. According to the organisers, M-Rise aims not only to honour individuals but also to highlight stories of positive social change across the country.

Senior officials of Abul Khair Group, journalists, and more than a hundred content creators attended the event.