< Previous40 Indian Aces, March 2024 For over 30 years, Jagtiani has steered the corporate strategy of Landmark Group, significantly contributing to its emergence as a leading omnichannel retailer of locally recognised brands in the MENA region. Her role in the establishment of the high- street fashion brand Splash in 1993 was pivotal, marking a signifi cant milestone in the group’s history. Her leadership has also facilitated Landmark Group’s successful foray into the e-commerce sector over a decade ago. In her current role, Jagtiani is focused on furthering the group’s vision, refi ning its strategic direction, and iden- tifying new business opportunities. She works in close collaboration with the leadership teams, off ering her strategic insights to inform decisions that shape the group's future trajectory. Her dedi- cation and strategic acumen have been foundational to Land- mark Group's achievements, embodying the group's commit- ment to innovation and growth. Landmark Group has expanded into a multifaceted retail and hospitality conglomerate, boasting over 2,200 retail stores, alongside leisure and hospitality establishments across the GCC, Middle East, India, Southeast Asia, and Africa. Currently, the group stands as one of the GCC's largest omnichannel retailers and the premier retailer of home and fashion products in India. Among its portfolio are retail brands such as Max, Splash, Babyshop, Centrepoint, Shoemart, Homecentre, Emax, Fitness First, and Funcity, among many others. Landmark Group has transformed the retail landscape in Dubai, beginning its remarkable ascent with the inception of a single store specialising in baby products in Bahrain in 1973, founded by Micky Jagtiani. This modest beginning has burgeoned into a vast network encompassing over 2,200 retail outlets across more than 20 countries. Under Jagtiani’s vision- ary leadership, the group expanded its horizons into e-com- merce and established the largest privately-owned logistics and distribution hub in the MENA region. Multiple collaborations The group is committed to fostering a positive ecosystem, actively seeking collaboration with partners to enhance their journey. In this vein, Landmark Group has partnered with The Science-Based Targets Initiative (SBTi), a joint eff ort among globally recognised organisations such as the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC), the World Resources Institute (WRI), and the World Wildlife Fund for Nature (WWF). Additionally, the group has aligned with the UAE Alliance for Climate Action (UACA) as an Alliance Achiever, demonstrating its commitment to the UAE's Net Zero by 2050 Strategic Initiative. On 18 February 2024, Landmark Group and Emirates Schools Establishments (Taaleem) have announced their part- RETAIL RENUKA JAGTIANI Chairwoman and CEO Landmark Grouparabianbusiness.com 41 nership to launch the ‘Superkidz’ health education programme across UAE public elementary schools. This comes within the framework of the annual Beat Diabetes initiative, coinciding with the 14th annual Beat Diabetes walk at Za’abeel Park, Dubai, which was hosted by Landmark Group and saw the participation of over 15,000 people. The Beat Diabetes initi- ative and the Superkidz programme initiatives are carried out in alignment with the social pillars of Dubai’s ambitious D33 Agenda, which emphasises health, well-being and social welfare for all residents of the city. Working for a sustainable future Landmark Group has advanced its sustainability agenda by securing green fi nancing from its banking partners, becoming the fi rst private sector entity to engage in a sustainability-linked loan. This initiative is part of the group's commitment to inte- grating green fi nance products into its fi nancial strategy, with the proceeds aimed at supporting further environmental projects. The group has set a goal to achieve net-zero emissions for scopes 1, 2, and 3 by 2040-2050, focusing on reducing carbon emissions, waste, water use, and energy consumption across its operations. It is committed to setting science-based targets to ensure these objectives are met. Enhancing its renewable energy capacity, Landmark Group has increased its solar energy output to 8.3 megawatts, with an additional 2.1 MWp from solar installations in the UAE. This increase covers 14 percent of its Scope 1 and 2 energy needs in the UAE, with a potential expansion to 30 percent as regulatory frameworks evolve. The group is also actively reducing waste through effi - cient practices and recycling initiatives, including an e-waste campaign in collaboration with Dubai Municipality. By secur- ing green fi nancing and committing to sustainability-linked fi nancial products, Landmark Group is reinforcing its commit- ment to a sustainable future. Other key achievements Landmark Group’s commitment to philanthropy reaches across international borders through collaborations with the Jagtiani Foundation and The LIFE Foundation, partnering with esteemed local non-profi ts in India like Apnalaya, Jan Sahas, Oscar Foundation, and SAVE to tackle critical issues such as the rights of textile and garment workers and the erad- ication of child labour. The group demonstrates entrepreneurial vigour in both its operations and personnel management. One of its innova- tive ventures, VIVA, was launched in February 2018 in the UAE and has rapidly expanded to over 84 stores in the UAE and Oman within two years, becoming a preferred destination for groceries and household items. STYLI, tailored for the young, mobile, and tech-savvy demographic in the GCC, oper- ates as an online-only fashion platform off ering seamless returns and cash-on-delivery payment options, facilitating a hassle-free shopping experience. Additionally, Landmark Group has committed over $272m to enhance its supply chain capabilities with the construction of the Omega DC facility. This logistics and distribution hub, equipped with more than 6,000 solar panels, is set to generate 4,200 megawatt-hours of energy annually, showcasing a signifi cant step towards sustainability. In 2022, Landmark Group launched Logistiq, a third-party logistics enterprise leveraging artifi cial intelligence, big data, IoT, robotics, and automation to provide advanced logistics solu- tions, including B2B, international, and document deliveries. Landmark Group’s commitment to philanthropy reaches across international borders through collaborations with the Jagtiani Founda- tion and The LIFE FoundationINDIAN ACES 2024 42 Indian Aces, March 2024 Abusiness leader and philanthro- pist, Adatia is an accomplished entrepreneur with businesses in 10 African countries, employing over 4,000 employees. Vision Exports was incorporated in 2007 as a rapidly developing trading network that aspires to establish long lasting relationships between buyers and suppliers world- wide. The company’s head office is based in Dubai with branch offi ces in Yiwu, China as well as Nairobi, Kenya. Originally from Porbandar, a small town in India, Currently, Adatia leads both a global commercial enterprise and a charitable organisation with activities spanning DR Congo, Mozambique, Swaziland, and Mada- gascar. His leadership focuses on a multi-sectoral strategy off ering tailored solutions to meet the needs of underprivileged communities. He heads Vision Exports, founded in 2007, which has evolved into a dynamic trading network, dedicated to forging enduring connections between global buyers and suppliers. Headquartered in Dubai, the company extends its operations through branch offi ces in Yiwu, China, and Nairobi, Kenya. Initially concentrating on meeting the demands of the Eastern African market, Vision Exports has skilfully expanded its oper- ations to facilitate cross-trade, supported by multiple ware- housing facilities worldwide, thereby broadening its ability to cater to global demands. Vision Exports has diversifi ed its off erings by developing an exclusive range of products that combine elegance, durability, and aff ordability. RAF Global, a private, non-profi t organisation that works to enhance the quality of life in DR Congo, Mozambique, Swaziland, and Madagascar. With a passion for community development, Adatia works at the grass roots for uplifting lives among the rural communities across Africa and India. The NGO’s impact extends to more than one million individuals through both long-term initiatives and emergency programmes. This initiative has garnered support and partnerships from entities with aligned goals, enhancing the reach and eff ective- ness of its community-focused projects. The objective is to craft innovative, actionable strategies that engage the public and address skills development, healthcare, education, fi nan- cial inclusion, and self-suffi ciency. Since its inception, the community work under Adatia’s guidance and has positively impacted over 600,000 impoverished households with compre- hensive programmes in healthcare, nutrition, water and sani- tation, education, economic empowerment (targeting women and youth), and emergency humanitarian interventions. About COGEF COGEF is a multi-national consumer goods group currently present in eight African countries and with operations in a vast range of sectors, including import/export trade, manufactur- ing, and retail. Set-up in Mozambique in 2004 and currently with a countrywide presence, COGEF is the number one player in the cash & carry and retail market in the country, has therefore direct exposure to the fast-moving consumer goods sector in Mozambique. With 22 ‘Cash & Carry’ supermarkets, 130 retail-wholesale outlets, four manufacturing units and more than 2,500 employees COGEF today has shown resil- ience and tenacity across all segments of its business. RIZWAN ADATIA Chairman COGEF Group and RAF Global RETAILarabianbusiness.com 43 INDIAN ACES 2024 Sanpal, a distinguished entrepreneur renowned for his transformative initiatives, helms ANAX Holding, an inno- vative venture set to reshape various sectors regionally and globally. Drawing from extensive experience in media, hospitality, and real estate development, he has consistently emerged as a pioneering force in the business arena and is widely recognised for his keen eye for identifying growth opportunities. Sanpal’s forward-thinking approach, coupled with an acumen for integrating innovative concepts, has propelled his ventures to unequivocal heights. As the driving force behind numerous enterprises, he has solidifi ed his reputation as a visionary leader in global entre- preneurship. Sanpal’s expertise in the hospitality sector has paved the way for strategic alliances with key hotel chains worldwide, underscoring his unwavering commitment to excel- lence and innovation. ANAX Holding emerges as a disruptor across hospitality, nightlife, real estate, and holding sectors, poised to transform industry standards. Sanpal’s dedication to remaining abreast of industry trends ensures that his ventures, including ANAX, stay at the forefront of emerging technologies and evolving consumer preferences. A focus on ANAX Holding ANAX Holding, a celebrated investment fi rm recognised for its expertise in managing a diverse port- folio of strategic businesses across multiple industries, stands as a beacon of innovation and growth. Founded by Sanpal with a vision to foster progress as well as transformation, ANAX Hold- ing has emerged as a leader in strategic investments, shaping businesses and steering them towards an upward growth trajectory. The driving force behind their successes is a team of stra- tegic, visionary individuals dedicated to fuelling growth, creating value, as well as guiding each portfolio company towards its unique objectives. Backed by their deep industry expertise, extensive network, and advanced analytical tools, ANAX Holding iden- tifi es promising investment opportunities and empowers portfolio companies to achieve their full potential. Whether investing in emerging technologies or established markets, the company possesses the requisite skills and experience to foster success stories. Steered by expertise in managing a diverse portfolio of strategic businesses across multiple industries, ANAX Holding serves as an instrumental force in the global business landscape. Committed to fostering sustainable growth and deliver- ing superior returns for partners, ANAX Holdings’ mission is to strategically invest in lucrative sectors, capitalise on potential opportunities, and manage the portfolio eff ectively to achieve consistent and sustainable growth. Their vision is to become a leading investment fi rm that empowers busi- nesses to thrive and contribute to a fl ourishing regional and global economy. By collaborating with dynamic companies boasting innovative business models, strong management teams, and robust competitive advantages, ANAX Holding facilitates sustainable growth and enables them to outper- form their peers in the market. SATISH SANPAL Chairman ANAX Holding INVESTMENT44 Indian Aces, March 2024 INDIAN ACES 2024 SHAMLAL AHAMED Managing Director Malabar Gold & Diamonds RETAIL MP Ahamed, a for mer spice farmer and trader, founded Malabar Jewellery in 1993 in Kozhikode, Kerala, by selling part of the family property. Beginning with a staff of eight members, he quickly expanded his clientele and business into neighbouring towns. His son, Shamlal Ahamed, joined the company in 2002 after graduating in computer applica- tions. Recognising the potential in Dubai due to the signifi cant customer base from Gulf countries, Ahamed initi- ated the company’s fi rst international expansion there. Despite initial setbacks due to inex- perience, leading to the closure of their Dubai showroom within eight months, he viewed this as a learning experience. Supported by his father’s encourage- ment to see failure as a growth opportunity, Ahamed contin- ued to learn from his father, absorbing his business principles and customer-fi rst approach. In 2007, he took charge of Malabar Gold & Diamonds’ international expansion, choosing Sharjah for its large Asian population and starting with wholesale operations before moving into retail. His strategy of off ering excellent service, competitive buy-back rates, and strong exchange policies with lifetime maintenance-built brand loyalty and trust among customers. About Malabar Gold & Diamonds Established in 1993, Malabar Gold & Diamonds, the fl agship entity of the Malabar Group, has evolved into a global jewel- lery retailer with over 330 outlets across 12 countries, includ- ing a signifi cant international footprint in India, the Middle East, Far East, the US, and Canada. The company operates 14 manufacturing units in India and the GCC, producing premium quality jewellery and off ers 12 unique jewellery brands to cater to diverse customer preferences. The company's success is attributed to its tailored off erings, exceptional customer service, and high craftsmanship standards. Recent innovations, such as the ‘100 Percent Value on Diamond Exchange’ policy, have been positively received, aligning diamonds as both a luxurious adornment and a valu- able investment. Embracing e-commerce, Malabar Gold & Diamonds has advanced technologically, partnering with global tech giants to enhance its omnichannel retail capability, thereby improving customer service and operational effi ciency. The company, with a reported annual turnover of $5.2bn, currently holds the position of the world’s sixth-largest jewel- lery retailer. The conglomerate employs a global workforce of over 19,500 professionals from more than 26 nations, all contributing to the fi rm's sustained growth. arabianbusiness.com 45 INDIAN ACES 2024 Malabar Gold & Diamonds extends its off erings through its online platform, www.malabargoldanddiamonds.com, enabling customers to shop for jewellery remotely. Further diversifying its portfolio, the group has launched MGD – Lifestyle Jewellery, catering to the contemporary, autonomous woman with its modern, lightweight jewellery designs. Commitment to ESG principles has been a corner- stone of the Malabar Group since its inception, focusing on signifi cant areas such as health, housing, hunger-free world, education, environment, and women’s empowerment. The group integrates these principles of sustainability and responsibility deeply into its business model, continually updating its ESG objectives to uphold its reputation as a socially responsible entity. In alignment with this commitment, the Malabar Group dedicates 5 percent of its profi ts to support related initiatives within its operational territories, affi rming its dedication to societal welfare. Global expansion and partnerships The UAE’s Malabar Gold & Diamonds, the sixth largest jewel- lery retailer globally, has forayed into the 13th country by launching a showroom in Sydney. Currently, it has a retail presence of over 340 showrooms spread across India, UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, KSA, Bahrain, Singapore, Malaysia, the USA, the UK, Canada, and Australia. It will be the largest jewellery showroom in Sydney with a collection of jewellery in 18K, 22K gold and diamonds. As staunch advocates for the ‘Make in India; Market to the World’ initiative, this move also capitalises on the robust trade ties and recent bilateral free trade agreement between Australia and India. Malabar Gold & Diamonds is renowned globally for off ering an unparalleled jewellery buying experience with convenience, and customer-friendly policies along with the ‘Malabar Promise’ of incomparable quality and service assurance. Malabar Promise includes a transparent price tag indicating stone weight, net weight, and stone charge of the jewellery, assured lifetime maintenance from any of the showrooms across 12 countries, guaranteed buyback, IGI and GIA-certifi ed diamonds ensuring 28-point quality check of global standards, 100 percent value on gold exchange, 100 percent value on diamond exchange, 100 percent 916 hallmarked jewellery, responsible sourcing, fair price policy and fair labour practices. Malabar Gold & Diamonds’ recent strategic partnership with Emirates NBD has supported the acceleration of its digital transformation strategy while ensuring the highest level of data integrity and security standards. Using Emirates NBD’s fi nancial Application Program- ming Interface (APIs), the bank has created an omnichan- nel vendor management system for Malabar Gold & Diamonds, off ering real time transaction processing and status enquiry for all its suppliers. The partnership marks Emirates NBD’s fi rst collaboration with a global jewellery client, creating a best practice payment benchmark for other members of the precious metal industry to adopt. Malabar Gold & Diamonds is the sixth largest jewellery retailer in the world46 Indian Aces, March 2024 INDIAN ACES 2024 Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil, a distin- guished fi gure in healthcare lead- ership and strategic investment, possesses an extensive track record within the healthcare industry. Helming Burjeel Holdings, he also holds the position of chairman at Amanat Holdings, a premier integrated health- care and education investment company in the region, with a paid-up capital of $680m (AED2.5bn) listed on the DFM. With an entrepreneurial trajectory exceeding 17 years, Vayalil has been instrumental in leading two companies he founded, Burjeel Holdings and RPM, to listings on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange. He serves on the Board of Response Plus Holding (RPM), the UAE’s largest provider of onsite health- care, medical emergency services, and occupational health solutions. Furthermore, as the founder of VPS Healthcare, he oversees a diverse investment portfolio including entities such as LifePharma, Lakeshore Hospital, Ziva, Keita, and Educare Institute. Vayalil is also a member of the UAE Medical Council. He completed his medical training at Kasturba Medical College, India, after which he received additional specialty training in radiology. He has been the recipient of several local and global accolades for his continuous pursuit of excellence in developing healthcare and entrepreneurship. Vayalil is the recipient of the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award, India’s highest civilian award presented to non-resident Indians, and the GPF Global Humanitarian Award. In addition to his corporate responsibilities, he remains committed to building capability and capacity in the region. Key achievements Since launching his inaugural hospital in Abu Dhabi in 2007, Vayalil has been instrumental in propelling Burjeel Holdings to become the preeminent private healthcare services provider in the UAE. His leadership is instrumental in enhancing the standard of care across various population segments, through Burjeel Hospitals, Medeor Hospitals, LLH Hospitals, Lifecare Hospitals, Tajmeel, and PhysioTherabia. His acumen in identifying market opportunities and driv- ing the expansion of healthcare services has established him as a top investor in the leading healthcare fi rms across the MENA region and India. Under his guidance, his portfolio companies have become pivotal in the healthcare sector, fostering a comprehensive and integrated network of hospitals, medical centres, pharmacies, and related services. Employing a strategic vision and innovative approaches, Vayalil addresses broader healthcare challenges. Under his guidance, RPM has broadened its operational reach to key markets, including KSA, Oman, India, and Ethiopia. Further- more, as the driving force behind Amanat Holdings, he sets strategic directions, manages corporate governance, and spear- heads eff orts to generate value and exert a benefi cial impact on shareholders, partners, and communities. HEALTHCARE SHAMSHEER VAYALIL Founder and Chairman Burjeel Holdingsarabianbusiness.com 47 INDIAN ACES 2024 Throughout his tenure, Vayalil has engaged in strategic collaborations with governments and key stakeholders to address humanitarian crises globally. As a distinguished fi gure in healthcare, he has led key initiatives in regions experiencing healthcare defi cits worldwide. Under his stewardship, Burjeel Holdings has joined hands with the governments of the UAE and Egypt to provide critical medical assistance to individuals from confl ict-aff ected zones. Philanthropic and education initiatives Vayalil has committed his professional life to enhancing the well-being of individuals, initially serving as a physician before transitioning to spearhead a range of multifaceted healthcare organisations. He has instilled a core value of community engagement within the ethos of these entities. Moreover, he is known for his consistent support of emerging talents, as evidenced by various initiatives aimed at nurturing young achievers over the years. Also, his dedication to fostering an environment of athletic achievement and empowerment highlights his desire to motivate new talents towards achieving success. Vayalil actively contributes to the One Billion Meals Initi- ative, a visionary project initiated by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, aimed at alleviating hunger in underprivileged communities internationally. Additionally, his philanthropic eff orts extend to supporting innovative chal- lenges, such as a distinctive climate initiative at Saïd Business School, University of Oxford, and facilitating 50 complimen- tary cardiac surgeries for children diagnosed with congenital heart conditions, among other endeavours. About Burjeel Holdings What began as a singular hospital founded by Vayalil in Abu Dhabi in 2007, has transformed into a network of medical innovation, attracting top-tier medical talent from around the globe and integrating cutting-edge technology across its oper- ations. Burjeel Holdings, a premier provider of healthcare services in the MENA region, employs a robust team of over 10,000 healthcare professionals and caters to over 5 million patients each year. The organisation specialises in medical fi elds that include oncology, nuclear medicine, advanced orthopaedics and spine surgery, advanced gynaecology, foetal medicine, paedi- atric sub-specialties, as well as organ and bone marrow trans- plants. By leveraging the advanced capabilities of fl agship establishments like Burjeel Medical City, Burjeel Holdings continues to expand its profi ciency in delivering complex medical care. In its strategic expansion, Burjeel Holdings has ventured into key markets, marking its presence in KSA, and has devel- oped a comprehensive network of physiotherapy, rehabilita- tion, and wellness centres in the kingdom. The group has also announced the launch of the fi rst two specialised day surgery centres in Riyadh by 2025. Today, Burjeel Holdings oversees a network of 68 assets, including 16 hospitals and 30 medical centres. Recently, Burjeel Holdings and e& enterprise unveiled two signifi cant partnerships set to transform healthcare in the UAE and beyond. These initiatives include the introduction of an inno- vative telemedicine services project which marks a leap forward in healthcare technology, with the development of an advanced cloud-based telemedicine application at its core. Burjeel Holdings is at the forefront of medical innovation, attracting top-tier medical talent from around the globe and integrating cutting- edge technology across its operations48 Indian Aces, March 2024 INDIAN ACES 2024 Chairman and Managing Director Eram Group DIVERSIFIED With an illustrious career exceeding three decades, Dr. Ahmed helms Eram Group, a globally recog- nised business conglomerate that spans over 40 entities across 16 coun- tries. He has been instrumental in steering Eram Group towards its remarkable success and milestones since its founda- tion in the mid-1990s. His leadership has not only propelled the group’s commer- cial achievements but also underscored a commitment to addressing pivotal societal challenges. Ahmed’s infl uence extends to signifi cant roles within the business community, including his position as Co-Chair of the FICCI Arab Council, and his involve- ment in various advisory capacities across business groups and government initiatives in Kerala. Among the numerous accolades Ahmed has received, the 2021 Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award stands out, highlighting his impactful contributions to business and societal upliftment, particularly his eff orts to improve sanitary conditions, address environmental issues, and create employment opportunities for the underprivileged in India. Furthermore, his innovation in sanitation was recognized in 2015 with the Toilet Titan Award from the Prime Minister of India, honouring the introduction of India's fi rst e-Toilet by Eram Scientifi c. In addition to his business ventures, Ahmed is deeply engaged in philanthropy, actively supporting, and initiating a range of charitable projects. His commitment to philanthropy is evident through partnerships with governments, trusts, NGOs, and individual collaborators, furthering his dedication to making a meaningful impact on society. About Eram Group Based in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region, Eram Group is a diversifi ed conglomerate with its global headquarters in Al Khobar, KSA, and regional headquarters in Dubai. From humble beginnings in the 1990’s and under the leadership of Ahmed, the group has now grown to over 40 well-managed companies with strategic locations in Asia, Europe and North America. The group encompasses over 40 companies across a broad spectrum of industries including oil and gas, power, construction, manufacturing, travel, healthcare, IT, media, Logistics, automotive, and training and education. Boasting a global footprint with operations across the Middle East, Europe, Asia Pacific, and the US, the group employs a vast, multicultural workforce dedicated to delivering innovative solutions across various markets. Notable entities within the Group, such as ITL World, a leading travel manage- ment company in the GCC, and Eram Scientifi c, a premier R&D fi rm known for its award-winning sanitation solutions, are celebrated for their commitment to quality service and ground-breaking innovations. As a fi rst-generation family enterprise, Eram Group is deeply committed to societal and social causes, pledging to continue channelling its resources towards creating a positive impact. This includes promoting education, enhancing health and sanitation, and empowering youth and women, both through its philanthropic initiatives and collaborations with international organisations, such as the United Nations, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, various governments, and NGOs. Eram Group has also successfully established social enterprises in public sanitation and educational sectors, which has won global acclaim. SIDDEEK AHMEDarabianbusiness.com 49 INDIAN ACES 2024 Executive Chairman and CEO Buimerc Corporation SIDDHARTH BALACHANDRAN INVESTMENT Balachandran, a distinguished figure in Dubai’s busi- ness landscape, is a seasoned management profes- sional, investor, and philanthropist, boasting over 20 years of experience. His expertise lies in crafting strategies that underscore the mission of his organisation while fostering a leadership cadre that drives success and innovation. In a notable acknowledgment of his contributions, Balachandran was honoured with the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award (PBSA, 2023) by the President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, in Indore, India, on 10 January 2023. This recognition marks him as the sole recipient from the GCC region for the year, as well as one of the youngest awar- dees in the history of this prestigious accolade. The award, which is the highest honour bestowed upon non-resident Indi- ans (NRIs) and overseas citizens of India, celebrates outstand- ing contributions in various fi elds. For over two decades, Balachandran has excelled as an investor, employing a value investing approach grounded in rigorous fi nancial analysis. His acumen in the Indian fi nancial markets has established him as a shrewd investor, particularly noted for his investments in companies with strong fundamen- tals and growth potential. His leadership roles extend to serving on the board of governors of PIOCCI (Platform for Indians to Operate, Cooperate, Collab- orate and Invest) in the GCC and the governing board of the Indian Business and Professional Council (IBPC) in Dubai. He is a founding member of the UAE India Business Council – UAE Chapter. In 2006, Balachandran took up the mantle as vice chairman of the India Club, Dubai, later becoming its chair- man in 2010, thereby becoming the youngest individual to hold this posi- tion. Currently, in his second term as chairman, he also holds the position of patron governor of the Indian Social & Cultural Centre, Abu Dhabi, and serves as the Director of Chinmaya International Residential School (CIRS) in Coim- batore, Tamil Nadu, India. Balachandran’s philanthropic eff orts have received wide- spread recognition and acclaim, signifi cantly impacting vari- ous communities. His contributions span a multitude of causes in the UAE and India, including child and elder welfare, environmental conservation, women’s empower- ment, healthcare, animal welfare, and the preservation of art, culture, and heritage. About Buimerc Corporation Buimerc Corporation, with its headquarters in Dubai, special- ises in the identifi cation and nurturing of high-quality asset classes. Situated within the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) ecosystem, the company is committed to foster- ing credible businesses through strategic capital allocation. Their investment philosophy emphasises comprehensive market research as well as industry analysis, focusing on compa- nies with distinct core competencies and execution strategies. The company’s portfolio spans various sectors, including trad- ing, education, real estate, as well as banking, facilitated through direct investments, or regulated fi nancial platforms.Next >