“My name is Meraj and I am from South West London. I love reading, drawing and a challenging game of chess. I was proud to be involved in getting the Grant Thornton Muslim Network started and through my religion I am advised ‘Be in this world as though you were a stranger or a traveller.’ Metaphorically this means not being attached to worldly things, recognising that life is fleeting, doing whatever good you can and taking only what you need. The Qur’an also tells me that humans were created with the potential to be both the worst and best of creation, based on our actions and intentions. This motivates me to be the best I can be, I believe our lives have a purpose – to do good and be good to those around us.”

Chapter 1: Introducing myself

My name is Meraj and I am from South West London. I love reading, drawing and a challenging game of chess. You can find me on the football pitch in Mitcham and Wandsworth on Thursday and Sundays most weeks. I am the eldest of four with a wonderful wife and a close-knit family. I studied Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, and spent some time in research. I was invited to do a PhD but I realised I didn’t want spend my career in a laboratory. I loved the work, but it just didn’t suit my personality.

Instead I joined a small bank focused on financing for assets before joining Ernst & Young in the advisory team. It was there that I met my current team. When my team at EY joined Grant Thornton I went with them, it was a no brainer. I believe that your team is the most important aspect of your working life.

Chapter 2: Speak generous words

The most important people in my life is family. Islam teaches me 'And your Lord has commanded that you shall not serve (any) but Him and goodness to your parents. If either or both of them reach old age with you, say not to them (so much as) “Ugh” nor chide them, and speak to them a generous word. And make yourself submissively gentle to them with compassion, and say: O my Lord, have compassion on them, as they brought me up (when I was) little.' We should behave kindly to our parents as they raised us. I believe in that teaching.

The Qur’an also tells me that humans were created with the potential to be both the worst and best of creation, based on our actions and intentions. This motivates me to be the best I can be, I believe our lives have a purpose – to do good and be good to those around us.

I joined a deaf charity 9 years ago and one of my proudest moments was hosting a dinner catered specifically for our deaf community. Seeing their enjoyment made me realise how fortunate I am to have all my senses. There are many little things we take for granted. I was approached to be on their board of directors, and I was filled with happiness. This is one of the proudest moments of my life.

Chapter 3: A lasting legacy

Memories deteriorate with time and distance. A hero or a foe is dependent on the lens through which they are being viewed. Plaques, status and honour do me no good. There are three lasting legacies I would like to leave behind:
Ensuring that my family and children are brought up in a righteous manner and therefore become righteous people to do good wherever life takes them.

Leave charitable contributions behind so that they may be a continued source of benefit for people.
Pass on beneficial knowledge so that it can be beneficial to those with whom you have shared it, that they may share it with others as well.

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