Salam Mahmud:  Begum Fowzia Samad was a guiding light in Bangladesh’s movements for women’s leadership, education, culture, and social welfare. Her wisdom, compassion, and leadership remain a long-term impact in society. Among the many dimensions of her life and work, a particularly notable chapter is her quiet yet significant contribution to the formation of BGIC, a pioneer in Bangladesh’s private non-life insurance sector.

Fowzia Samad was born on 28 February 1929 in Shillong, Assam, then part of British India. Her father, Safar Ali, was a high-ranking official in the British government, while her mother, Azizun Nesa, was a woman deeply rooted in human values and compassion. Her ancestral home was in Thoigaon village under Balaganj Upazila of Sylhet.

In 1946, she founded the children and youth organization “Mukul Fauj.” In 1947, she began her teaching career at Sylhet Government Girls’ High School, and in the same year she married M. A. Samad. From 1949 to 1951, she served as the editor of the children’s magazine “Minar,” which gained wide popularity in both East and West Bengal. Through radio programs such as “Khelaghar” and “Mohila Mahfil” on Radio Pakistan, she played an important role in spreading education and human values.

In 1953, she established a women’s association in Chattogram. In 1973, she was elected President of the Dhaka Ladies Club, a position she held with distinction for 38 consecutive years. Under her initiative, “Bishwabina Music School” was founded in 1974, followed by “Kushumkoli School” in 1985 both of which significantly contributed to women’s education, culture, and social welfare.

Her husband, M. A. Samad, was a prominent person in Bangladesh’s insurance industry. After his retirement, he envisioned establishing a private non-life insurance company in his homeland. Standing beside him with unwavering faith, Begum Fowzia Samad became the driving force behind that dream. In his most difficult moments, she remained a source of strength and reassurance. Her quiet inspiration ultimately helped transform this vision into reality.

The establishment of BGIC on 29 July 1985 marked the beginning of a new horizon, shaped by silent sacrifice, deep compassion, and unwavering inspiration. While M. A. Samad was the visible architect of that dream, Fowzia Samad was its inner strength and enduring spirit. She was a quiet builder who, though never at the center of attention, laid each foundation stone with precision and care. Today, BGIC continues to shine as a symbol of trust, integrity, and success an enduring reflection of her affection, wisdom, and love.

While serving as President of the Dhaka Ladies Club, she passed away on 25 April 2011 in Singapore. Her work, wisdom, and humanity continue to remain a lasting source of inspiration for all. She is survived by one son, three daughters, and countless admirers.