Biography of Saif Rashid: Founder & CEO of Apon Bazaar- Entrepreneur
Saif Rashid: Transforming Lives of Workers
Saif Rashid is a social entrepreneur with a deep passion for
improving the lives of industrial workers, especially in Bangladesh. His
entrepreneurial journey is driven by a commitment to creating accessible and
affordable services for workers who often face economic and health challenges.
As the founder and Managing Director of Apon Wellbeing Ltd., Saif has dedicated
his career to improving the economic well-being of millions of industrial
workers and their families. His work focuses on providing essential services
such as healthcare, financial support, and life insurance, ensuring that
workers receive the attention and support they deserve.
The Vision Behind Apon Wellbeing
Apon Wellbeing Ltd. was established with a clear vision to
address the gaps in the lives of industrial workers in Bangladesh. The
company’s primary aim is to increase the real income of workers by offering
them discounts on food and other essentials, which reduces their daily living
costs. Apon also gives workers access to affordable health services and life
insurance, ensuring they are covered in times of need. With Apon's initiative,
workers can receive medical diagnoses and prescriptions for free, all while
contributing to a better quality of life for themselves and their families.
Making Healthcare Accessible to Workers
One of the core aspects of Apon Wellbeing is its innovative
healthcare system. By allowing workers to earn points through their purchases,
Apon creates a system where the accumulation of points leads to free healthcare
services. With just 200 points, workers can access zero-cash health coverage,
which includes doctor consultations and prescription medications. This unique
model has made healthcare more accessible to industrial workers who otherwise
might not afford it, directly improving their health and well-being.
Empowering Workers with Financial Support
In addition to healthcare, Apon Wellbeing offers financial
support to workers. The company provides access to life insurance coverage,
which can be as high as $500. This gives workers financial protection in the
event of an emergency or unforeseen circumstances, ensuring that their families
are taken care of even if they are not around. The integration of financial
services with daily necessities is part of Apon's broader strategy to lift
workers out of poverty and improve their quality of life.
Focusing on Women’s Empowerment
Saif’s entrepreneurial efforts are not only about economic
empowerment but also about women’s empowerment. Through his work at Apon, Saif
has been able to impact the lives of many women working in the industrial
sector. By creating opportunities for women to improve their financial
stability and access health services, Saif is helping to empower a
traditionally underserved demographic. His focus on women’s economic
independence has been a central theme in his work, helping women break free
from the cycle of poverty.
Saif’s Journey with Jita Social Business
Before founding Apon, Saif Rashid was the CEO of Jita Social
Business Bangladesh Ltd., a venture that also focused on improving the
livelihoods of underprivileged communities in Bangladesh. Jita, a joint venture
between CARE Enterprises and Danone, provided rural women with the opportunity
to sell products in their local communities. Under Saif’s leadership, Jita
created a sales network that helped empower women, while also bringing
essential products to rural areas. This experience laid the foundation for Saif’s
later work with Apon, as he learned the value of inclusive business models.
Recognitions and Achievements
Saif’s work has earned him numerous accolades and
recognitions. He was named the Entrepreneur of the Year 2018 by YGAP and has
been a Fabric of Change Fellow since 2017. His work has been highlighted in
prestigious publications like The Guardian, Forbes, The Economist, and SSIR.
Saif’s approach to social entrepreneurship has garnered attention from
organizations like Oxford University and DFID, further solidifying his
reputation as a leader in the field of social impact.
Transformational Business Models
Saif is known for his transformational business models that
focus on scalability and sustainability. His work has been centered on finding
innovative solutions that can be replicated across different sectors and
regions. By focusing on the apparel industry in Bangladesh, Saif has managed to
create a model that addresses both economic and social issues faced by workers.
His approach is designed not only to generate profit but also to create lasting
social change.
Biography of Saif Rashid: Founder & CEO of Apon Bazaar- Entrepreneur/age/net worth/investor/startup/Apon Bazaar/Apon Wellbeing story/Saif Rashid
Apon’s Mission to Serve 4 Million Workers
The mission of Apon Wellbeing is ambitious yet impactful: to
transform the lives of 4 million industrial workers across Asia. Currently,
Apon serves over 70,000 workers through 13 service points in Bangladesh. This
number is expected to grow as Apon expands its reach and continues to develop
its services. Saif’s vision is to extend Apon’s benefits to millions of workers
across the continent, ensuring they have access to the necessary resources to
improve their living standards.
Using Technology to Drive Impact
Apon Wellbeing utilizes technology to enhance its services
and reach more workers. By offering a digital platform, Apon ensures that
workers can access discounts, health services, and financial products in a
seamless and efficient manner. Technology also plays a crucial role in tracking
the accumulation of points, facilitating access to health insurance, and
ensuring that workers receive timely support. Through this digital innovation,
Saif and his team are able to scale Apon’s impact while making it more accessible
to workers in remote areas.
Saif’s Role as an Ashoka Fellow
In addition to his entrepreneurial ventures, Saif has been
recognized as an Ashoka Fellow, a prestigious title given to social
entrepreneurs who are driving systemic change. This recognition reflects Saif’s
commitment to creating social impact through innovative business models. As an
Ashoka Fellow, Saif is part of a global network of changemakers working to
solve some of the world’s most pressing issues. His work is an inspiration to
others looking to make a difference through social entrepreneurship.
Saif’s Commitment to Social Impact
Saif’s journey as a social entrepreneur has always been
driven by a desire to create lasting change. His work with Apon and Jita has
focused on addressing the most pressing issues faced by industrial workers,
from income inequality to access to healthcare. By combining business
principles with a strong sense of social responsibility, Saif has built
companies that not only serve a profit motive but also contribute to the
greater good. His commitment to social impact is evident in everything he does,
from his work at Apon to his broader contributions to the field of social
entrepreneurship.
Future Goals and Aspirations
Looking ahead, Saif Rashid is focused on expanding Apon’s
reach and impact. His goal is to provide services to millions of workers across
Asia, improving their financial stability, access to healthcare, and overall
well-being. Saif is also passionate about furthering women’s empowerment and
ensuring that more women have the opportunity to achieve financial
independence. Through his work, Saif continues to inspire others to think
beyond traditional business models and focus on creating businesses that benefit
society as a whole.
A Legacy of Social Entrepreneurship
Saif Rashid’s legacy is one of innovation, empowerment, and
social impact. His work with Apon Wellbeing Ltd. has created lasting change for
thousands of industrial workers, and his commitment to social entrepreneurship
continues to inspire others. Saif’s ability to blend business acumen with a
deep commitment to social justice has set a new standard for what is possible
in the world of social impact. As he continues his work, Saif is undoubtedly
shaping the future of social entrepreneurship and leaving a positive mark on
the world.
A timeline of Saif Rashid's journey:
Before 2017 – Saif was the CEO of Jita Social Business
Bangladesh, empowering rural women.
2017 – Saif became a Fabric of Change Fellow.
2018 – Named Entrepreneur of the Year by YGAP.
2018 – Founded Apon Wellbeing Ltd. to support industrial
workers in Bangladesh.
2018-2024 – Apon served over 70,000 workers across 13
service points in Bangladesh.
2024 – Apon’s mission aims to transform the lives of 4
million workers across Asia.
2024 – Saif recognized as an Ashoka Fellow for his
contributions to social entrepreneurship.
