Who are we

We are Assadaqaat Community Finance (ACF) — a catalyst for change and a beacon of hope for individuals who aspire to achieve financial independence and self-sufficiency. At ACF, we believe in the power of entrepreneurship to empower individuals, foster economic independence, and bridge the gap towards financial inclusion. We embrace diversity and ensure that everyone, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to thrive as an entrepreneur.

Through our local and global entrepreneurship programmes and responsible community finance model, we help people turn their dreams into realities — turning the beneficiaries of today into the benefactors of tomorrow.

Our vision

A world where every individual can discover empowerment through entrepreneurship, where communities are inspired by philanthropy, and where financial inclusion and economic equality are the norm.

Our values

Empowerment

We believe in the power of entrepreneurship to empower individuals, fostering economic independence and self-sufficiency.

Inclusivity

We embrace diversity and ensure that everyone, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to thrive as an entrepreneur.

Community

We build strong, supportive communities that uplift one another, inspiring a sense of shared prosperity.

Innovation

We constantly seek innovative ways to drive positive change and create commercially viable businesses.

Cultural sensitivity

We respect and celebrate the cultural diversity of our beneficiaries, tailoring our support to their unique needs.

Philanthropy

We embody the spirit of Assadaqaat (benevolence), promoting generosity, kindness, and a commitment to helping others.

What is the meaning of 'Assadaqaat'?

Assadaqaat is more than a name — it is the beating heart of our organisation. Rooted in the Islamic principles of benevolence, generosity, and community support, Assadaqaat is the belief that every act of kindness, no matter how small, can ignite positive change. Everything from a donation to a simple smile is Assadaqaat.

No, you don’t need to belong to Islamic Faith to apply for finance from ACF (we are an inclusive organisation that offers finance opportunities to all individuals from different faiths or no faith), but our principles in philanthropy are at the heart of what we do.

Executive Management Team

Akmal Hanuk

Founder and CEO

Arsalan Sajid

Youth Enterprise Programme

Suzanne Whiteside

Admin & Programmes Co-ordinator

The ACF Board

Dr Ahmad Jamal

Chair & Founding Member of the Board

Professor Saleem Kidwai

Founding member of the Board

Dr Hatice Kizgin

Member of the Board

The ACF Advisory Board

Professor Omer Rana

Dr Abid Mehmood

Dr Aqila Yaqub

Rifhat Qureshi

Batool Akmal

Matthew Bevington

Acknowledgement

Professor Ahmad Rafique Akhtar is a distinguished Islamic scholar of modern times. His mentorship and friendship has played a fundamental role in developing Assadaqaat Community Finance (ACF).

Through his guidance, I have developed a deeper understanding of the importance and value of Assadaqaat — benevolence, generosity, and philanthropy. These values are the foundation for everything we do.

I am eternally grateful for Prof. Ahmad Rafique’s knowledge, wisdom, and affection. May Allah reward him and accept our efforts in doing good for all our communities worldwide.

Akmal Hanuk – Founder & CEO

Donate today

Our work is only possible through your generosity. Make a bold statement of support by donating to ACF and demonstrate your commitment to empowering individuals and building better futures for the people in our communities who face the toughest barriers.