meet the team
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amin fakhrul - chairman
Amin is a dedicated and visionary community leader, committed to fostering engagement, inclusion, and youth development. As Chairman of a thriving community organisation, he oversees projects and initiatives that unite people, create opportunities for all ages, and strengthen local connections.
Amin has been instrumental in developing one dragon boat club and later founded another, providing hundreds of local residents with access to sport, teamwork, and personal growth. Through these clubs, he has not only promoted physical activity but also encouraged leadership, resilience, and collaboration among young people and adults alike.
Beyond sports, Amin’s humanitarian spirit drives him to lead fundraising efforts for both global crises and families in need within the local community. His work has directly supported education, emergency relief, and social welfare projects, making a tangible difference in people’s lives.
Known for his collaborative approach, Amin inspires others to get involved, fostering a culture of service, empowerment, and inclusion. His dedication continues to leave a meaningful and lasting impact, both locally and internationally.
karim rashid - director, secretary
Karim is a technology leader with extensive experience delivering digital solutions and managing high-performing teams across a range of sectors. His work spans software engineering, cloud platforms, and operational leadership, with a strong focus on using technology to improve outcomes for people and communities.
Alongside his professional career, Karim serves as a board member of the organisation, contributing his expertise in governance, digital strategy, and organisational development. He is passionate about supporting meaningful community initiatives and ensuring that technology and innovation are used responsibly to create positive, lasting impact.
arakoth chowdhury - director, treasurer
Arakoth Chowdhury is a Senior Quantity Surveyor and Chartered Member of the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) with over 18 years of experience delivering high-quality, cost-effective construction solutions. He is recognised for his expertise in cost management, contract administration, and successfully managing complex projects across various sectors.
Beyond his professional achievements, Arakoth is deeply committed to community development. As Director and Treasurer of the organisation, he plays a key role in shaping its vision, overseeing finances, and driving initiatives that empower young people. He is passionate about encouraging youth participation in sports, leadership programs, and activities that build confidence, teamwork, and ambition.
Arakoth combines technical excellence with a dedication to social impact, inspiring both his professional peers and the next generation of leaders.
Furad Miah - director, compliance, safeguarding & equality lead
Furad is a dedicated safeguarding and equality practitioner with extensive experience supporting vulnerable groups, including children, young people, and adults at risk. Trained in DSL procedures, GDPR compliance, and safer-working practices, with a proven ability to recognise and respond to safeguarding concerns promptly and appropriately. Passionate about promoting fairness, dignity, and equal access for all while ensuring that organisational policies meet statutory and ethical standards. These values remain central to my work with Empower Your Roots, where compliance, safeguarding and equality are fundamental to empowering every individual we serve.
afzal hussain - recruitment manager, trustee
Afzal is the Director of a leading Managed Service Provider (MSP) delivering IT support to state schools, many of which serve children from disadvantaged backgrounds. Driven by a passion for empowering young people, Afzal is committed to equipping them with the tools, skills, and opportunities they need to reach their full potential.
Beyond his professional role, Afzal actively champions teamwork, collaboration, and a healthy, active lifestyle through sport—recognising its power to foster enjoyment, physical fitness, and mental wellbeing. His dedication aligns with the mission of Empower Your Roots, supporting young people and families to grow, thrive, and succeed.
Jubair Ahmed - social media, PR, trustee
Jubair is a Professional Skills Tutor and a Module Leader with a passion for education, inclusion, and youth development. He works at BPP University supporting international students and is actively involved in community initiatives that use sport and learning to empower young people and families.
Aminul Hoque - Funding & Grants Manager, Trustee
Aminul is an experienced community leader, entrepreneur, and strategic grants specialist dedicated to expanding access to sports, wellbeing, and social mobility initiatives across London. As the Funding & Grants Manager for Empower Your Roots CIC, he leads the development of high-impact funding bids, partnership proposals, and long-term sustainability strategies that support cycling, walking, family wellbeing, and multi-generational community engagement.
With a proven track record in securing funding, designing inclusive programmes, and managing community projects, Aminul brings a unique blend of strategic insight, operational excellence, and passion for grassroots change. He is committed to breaking down barriers for underrepresented communities and ensuring that EYR continues to grow as a safe, empowering, and culturally responsive organisation.
Driven by a vision to strengthen families and uplift local communities, Aminul works closely with partners, stakeholders, and volunteers to deliver transformative sports and wellbeing activities that improve health, confidence, and community cohesion.
Tufayal Ahmed - coach, deputy safeguarding lead, trustee
Tufayal is a dedicated youth and community development professional with over three decades of experience empowering young people across Tower Hamlets and the wider East London community. From 1990 to 2003, he served as a Youth Worker for Tower Hamlets Council, providing mentorship, guidance, and support to thousands of young people through a wide range of programmes designed to build confidence, resilience, and lifelong skills.
In the 1990s, Tufayal also played a pivotal role in local grassroots football, dragon boat, coaching, and managing community teams. His leadership helped young players develop discipline, teamwork, and a strong sense of purpose—qualities that many carried forward into adulthood.
Throughout his career, Tufayal has remained committed to creating positive opportunities for young people, fostering safe and inclusive environments, and promoting personal growth through sport, education, and community engagement. His passion for youth empowerment continues to shape his work today as he strives to support the next generation in realising their full potential.
Shaukat Husain Hafeji - senior adviser, trustee
Shaukat is an accomplished business owner of A V Stone UK Ltd with postgraduate expertise in academic pharmacy and toxicology. He brings a strong blend of scientific knowledge, operational leadership, and community-focused values to his work. Alongside his professional endeavors, Shaukat maintains an active role in sports through Bardoli Cricket Club and the Essex Cricket League, demonstrating commitment, teamwork, and discipline in all areas of his life.