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The story of Dr Ram Buxani, Chairman of Dubai-based ITL-Cosmos Group, who arrived in the UAE, at the impresÂsionable age of 18, to being one of Dubai's foremost entrepreneurs and community leaders is more than a tale of inspiring success.
No doubt, his journey - defined by hard work, perseverance and a burning ambition to excel - makes for a textbook tale for aspiring entrepreÂneurs. But what makes Dr Buxani's life and legacy illustrious is the humane side of the story, of a man who did not just focus on business but drew on his personal and entrepreneurial success to make a positive difference to people around the world.
A self-made man, who does not hesitate to acÂknowledge all the kindred souls who cross his path and made a value-added difference to his own individuality, aspirations and achievements, Dr Buxani says that success is not "about being profÂit-oriented".
Always learning, evolving and moving with and ahead of the time he lives in, his mantra is simple but evocative - and in it also lies a compelling message for everyone: "Honesty is essential. Change is imperative. Embrace it and learn to survive after the change. If you change with the change, you succeed. If you cause the change - then you lead."
Ranked as a top Indian leader by Forbes for four years from 2013, 2015, 2016 and 2019, and the recipient of the 'Lifetime Achievement Award' in the year 2017. Dr Buxani is indeed a multi-facetÂed personality who has made an indelible mark in the business and socio-cultural fabric of Dubai, his home away from home.
He was also ranked as one of the 'Most PowerÂful Indians in the UAE' by Arabian Business in 2010, 2011 and 2012, and was presented with the "Most Inspiring Personality" CEO Award in 2012. Recipient of coveted 'Man of the Year Award' by Bharat Ratna, an English magazine published from Hong Kong in 1992, Dr Buxani has bagged among others, honours like Shield by the President of India, Giani Zail Singh in 1983.
Dr Buxani is the Founder-Chairman (1987- 1993) of the Overseas Indians Economic Forum, a prime NRI organisation that subsequently merged with the Indian Business and ProfesÂsional Council. His involvement extends to instiÂtutions like India Club Dubai, of which he served as chairman from 2012 - 2015. He earlier chaired the Club from 1990 to 1994. He was also chairÂman of the Indian High School Dubai from 2000 to 2004. He is the board member of Al Noor TrainÂing Centre for Children with Special Needs and is associated with various other charitable and voluntary organisations including Rotary Club of Jumeirah.
A prolific and deeply researched author, Dr BuxÂani is the author of two books - 'Taking the High Road', and 'Sindhis - God's Gift to Global EconoÂmy'. T'aking the High Road' has now successfully crossed three editions. The fourth edition will be released very soon, and has been translated into several languages, including in Arabic.
Dr Buxani is also an ardent theatre enthusiast. When he is not patronising the theatre scene in Dubai, being an involved spectator, you will find him on stage as a seasoned actor, portraying comÂpelling roles and bringing out fine nuances that one associates with veteran actors.
In 2004, Dr Buxani was conferred a doctorate degree by the Washington International UniverÂsity for his thesis 'Governance of Dubai: The influÂence of tribal tradition in decision making, espeÂcially in the critical periods of the development of the city-state'. In 2015, he was also conferred with a honourary degree of Doctor of Letters (D.Litt.) by the D.Y. Patil University, India.
Dr Buxani's name, indeed, is synonymous with an immense grit and determination, a quality reqÂuisite to succeed in the competitive city of Dubai. As he says: "There are going to be new challenges; there are going to be situations that are unprecÂedented. When we find ourselves at a crossroad, the experience of those who walked before us will always serve as an inspiration."
Dr Buxani aims to continue to be that lodestar whose achievements will guide the future genÂeration of entrepreneurs.
Dr Ram Buxani, Chairman of ITL-Cosmos Group, at the Middle East Forbes Award.
"Honesty is essential. Change is imperative. Embrace it and learn to survive after the change. If you change with the change, you succeed. If you cause the change - then you lead."
Dr Ram Buxani
Chairman
ITL-Cosmos Group
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