Born in 1948 in Rajagiri, Tanjore District, Tamil Nadu, Dawood Batcha, affectionately known as RDB among friends and family, faced significant challenges in his formative years, losing his father at the tender age of 10. As the youngest child, he found unwavering support from his brothers M.A. Noor Batcha, M.A. Fakir Mohammed, and his paternal uncle, who nurtured his passion for education and facilitated his continuous learning journey.
This foundation paved the way for his pursuit of a bachelor’s degree in Chemistry at Jamal Mohamed College, Trichy, followed by a bachelor’s in Library Science at Madras University. Dawood initiated his career as a librarian at Wellington Defence Services Staff College. Seeking further development, he moved to Bangalore for his Master of Science in Library & Information Science.
His professional journey included roles at Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) in India before he ventured to Al-Fateh University in Tripoli, Libya, as a librarian. Dawood’s interest in photography guided him to Salam Studios & Stores in Dubai, where he spent 23 years. Starting as a salesman, his commitment to personal growth saw him undertake management courses, eventually ascending to the position of General Manager.
During his tenure in Dubai, Dawood actively supported expatriates and contributed to developmental initiatives in Tamil Nadu as the Secretary of IMAN Association in Dubai. He also championed Tamil cultural events, organizing various programs for the expatriate community.
With a steadfast vision to uplift his native village and society through enhanced educational opportunities, Dawood invested his personal resources to establish the RDB Educational and Charitable Trust in Chennai. Throughout his life, Dawood remained a devoted reader and avid learner, renowned for his philanthropic endeavors that have benefited numerous educational institutions, organizations, and individuals.
Trustees
Hajiani. Mrs. Rabiya Begum
Trustee
Born in Thanjavur as the third daughter of the esteemed philanthropist Haji M.M. Ismail, Mrs. Rabiya Begum was raised in a traditional Islamic environment that valued conservative principles. Her upbringing, marked by limited educational opportunities, ignited a deep-seated passion for the cause of social change, particularly in educating girls and elevating their societal status.
Upon marrying M. Dawood Batcha, an ardent advocate for education, she recognized the transformative power of education in shaping women's lives. Her pivotal role in establishing the RDB Educational Institutions became instrumental, fueled by her belief in the potential of education to empower women.
With a spirit of boundless generosity, Mrs. Rabiya Begum generously contributed her personal wealth, enabling countless girls to access education. Known for her generosity, warm hospitality, and affable nature, she has left an indelible mark in her community.
Mrs. Rabiya Begum's extensive travels worldwide alongside her husband granted her a wealth of experiences across diverse cultures. Undoubtedly, she stands as the cornerstone of her husband's success. Above all, she epitomizes the embodiment of a woman who acknowledges her personal obligations to her family while equally embracing a broader societal responsibility—a tenet crucial for societal progress and the advancement of future generations.
Afroze Sulthana, born in Thanjavur, India, pursued her schooling at Our Own English High School in Dubai. Her academic journey led her back to India, where she completed her undergraduate studies in medicine at Sri Ramachandra University, Chennai, graduating in 2000.
Following her education, she relocated to the UK with her husband, Dr. Syed Hussain. Opting for a career hiatus to prioritize her family while preparing for entry exams, she resumed her academic pursuits in 2004, embarking on postgraduate training in family medicine across Scotland, Manchester, and Liverpool where she successfully completed her training and MRCGP and qualified as a family physician in 2008.
Since then, Afroze Sulthana has devoted her professional endeavors to serving as a family physician in primary care within the NHS. Her career has traversed various countries, including stints in Qatar and Singapore, broadening her global medical experience. Presently, she holds the role of a senior family physician. Her dedication extends to acquiring additional qualifications in women's health and family planning. Happily married to Dr. Syed Hussain, Afroze Sulthana finds fulfillment in her family life, blessed with three children.
S. Syed Hussain, originally from Madurai, Tamilnadu, India, pursued his undergraduate studies at Madurai Medical College before obtaining his Master’s in Anesthesia from the University of Delhi in 1999.
His pursuit of excellence led him to the UK, where he sought further training in Anesthesia and Intensive Care. Completing his training in Liverpool in 2008, he embarked on an advanced fellowship in intensive care at the University of Toronto in 2010.
Since then, Dr. Hussain has contributed significantly to the NHS as a consultant. His expertise also extended to a senior consultant role at Hamad Medical Corporation in Qatar, where he served for three years.
His passion for education and medical training shines through his commitment to teaching aspiring doctors. Driven by his dedication to patient safety and quality improvement, he assumes the role of governance lead for intensive care. Additionally, he holds an honorary senior lecturer position at Anglia Ruskin University, reflecting his devotion to academic mentorship and advancement.
Nadha Dawood, born in Dubai, ventured to Anna University in India, where she earned her Bachelor’s in Architecture (B. Arch.) in 2006. Commencing her professional journey, she commenced as a trainee architect at Norr Dubai, actively contributing to the façade design of the iconic Atlantis, The Palm. This experience ignited her passion for the intricate and demanding realm of engineering.
Driven by this newfound passion, she pursued specialized studies at the esteemed University of Bath, obtaining an M.Sc., in Façade Engineering in 2007. Embarking on her career as a Graduate Façade Engineer at Buro Happold, Nadha engaged in an array of remarkable projects spanning international locales as well as the UK, showcasing her expertise and prowess in the field. Her hard work and dedication has fueled her through various positions in Industry and currently she is a Director at Wintech, UK, a leading in facade consultancy.
Hailing from India, Wasim Farook attained his Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) from New College, Madras University, graduating in 1998. His early career in computer science and gaming technology burgeoned as he ascended to the roles of Content Producer and Program Manager at Sify Technologies in India.
Venturing to the UK, he assumed the mantle of project manager at Cybersports, Nottingham. Driven by a fervent commitment to ongoing growth, he embarked on a transformative academic pursuit, earning his Master in Business Administration (MBA) from the esteemed University of Westminster, London.
Presently, Mr. Farook holds the position of senior manager of online operations for Europe and product design at Keyfetch, where his expertise and leadership continue to shape and drive the company's initiatives.
