Foysol Hussain Choudhury, a British Bangladeshi, made history as the first Bangladeshi elected to the Scottish Parliament in the UK. His success is not only personal, but an important chapter in the history of Bangladesh. His achievements serve as an inspiration not only to him, but to the entire Bangladeshi diaspora. 

Childhood and Family Background:

Born in Badardi village of Nabiganj upazila in Habiganj district, Bangladesh, Foysol Choudhury comes from a family which has played a leading role in social development and public welfare work. His Grandfather, the late Shamsul Alam Choudhury, and the Father, late Gulam Rabbani Choudhury, were well-known and respected figures in their local community. Their family was the pioneer of the development of the area. This legacy of social service from his family helped make Foysol Choudhury the great philanthropist and leader he is today.

Foysol Choudhury completed his primary education at Ramcharan Primary School in Puran Habiganj, where his leadership qualities, which would play a large role in his future political career, began to emerge. After studying in Habiganj Government High School until grade 9, his family relocated to the UK, setting the stage for the next chapter of his life.

Expatriate life and education in the UK:

After coming to the UK, Foysol Choudhury settled in Edinburgh, Scotland. Along with his studies, he joined the family catering business. As eldest son, and due to his father’s illness, he took on a leadership role in the family business.

While studying at the University of Edinburgh, he acquired business and leadership skills, which later laid the foundation for his success in politics. Alongside his studying and businesses, he devoted himself to the development of the Bangladeshi community and became a key figure in supporting the welfare of the diaspora. 

Entry into politics:

Foysol Choudhury officially entered politics in 2017 when he contested the Edinburgh South East seat in the national election as a Labour Party candidate. Although he was not elected at that time, it was a major step for him. Due to his dedication and persistence, he won the 2021 Scottish Parliament election as the Scottish Labor Party candidate from the Lothian region. Becoming the first Bangladeshi member of the Scottish Parliament.

It was a great achievement and a special moment for Bangladesh. His victory made the Bangladeshi community brighter on the world stage. His political victory made him a fixture in the social and political life of Scotland.

Community service and social work:

Foysol Choudhury is not only a politician but an active social worker. During his time in Scotland, he has been involved in various social and charitable projects. During the Scottish independence referendum in 2014, he worked as the coordinator of the "Bangladeshi for Better Together Campaign playing an important role in spreading the message of harmony among the Bangladeshi community.

During the Covid-19 pandemic, he organised food distribution for disadvantaged ethnic minority families living in Scotland. He has also been involved with the Edinburgh and Lothians Regional Equality Council (ELREC) for many years, he participated in food support programmes and provided food assistance to support vulnerable families. This charitable work has contributed to him being a respected member of the community. 

Awarded MBE:

In recognition of his extensive contributions to society, Foysol Choudhury was awarded the title of MBE (Member of the British Empire) in 2004 by Her Majesty the Queen. It is a major achievement of his life and solidified his reputation as a respected figure among both the Bangladeshi diaspora and the wider public .

Leadership and advocacy:

Foysol Choudhury continues to promote Bangladeshi culture and heritage in Scotland through various initiatives. He was instrumental in celebrating International Mother Language Day in the Scottish Parliament and played a key role in commemorating Bangladesh’s Independence Day. His efforts have helped raise awareness of Bangladeshi traditions and culture in Scotland.

He continues to work as a model leader for Bangladeshi community in Scotland. He has undertaken various initiatives to increase employment and education opportunities for Bangladeshi youth. He has always been aware of the rights of expatriate Bangladeshis and their needs. Under his leadership, the Bangladeshi community has created a respected position in Scotland today.

Personal Life:

Foysol Choudhury's family are also an important part of his success story. His wife Mirza Tahmina Foysol Choudhury (Moni) is a supportive and compassionate wife, who has always inspired him. Their two children, Ikram Hussain Choudhury and Madiha Jannath Choudhury are following in their father’s footsteps of community service and leadership. Madiha is a member of the Scottish Youth Parliament, which expresses the continuity of leadership within the family.

Future Plans:

Foysol Choudhury remains focused on strengthening the Bangladeshi community in Scotland. He is working to solve the hardships and problems faced by expatriate Bangladeshis. His future plans include bringing people from all walks of life together to improve their welfare and representation.

Conclusion:

Foysol Hussain Choudhury’s journey from a small village in Bangladesh to the halls of the Scottish Parliament is a testament to his dedication, resilience, and commitment to social justice. As a politician and community leader, he has uplifted the Bangladeshi community in Scotland and made significant contributions to both his homeland and his adopted country. His story is an inspiration to the Bangladeshi diaspora and a beacon of hope for future generations.