Riyaaz Makaney is a distinguished leader with over 40 years of experience in the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN). He has held significant roles, including Chairman of the Aga Khan Education Service, India, and the Aga Khan Youth and Sports Board, India, and served as Deputy Communications Coordinator for the Aga Khan Council for India.
A motivational speaker and trainer in leadership and human potential development, Riyaaz has delivered programs across India, UAE, and the Far East. He is also an actor, having appeared in international Hindi films, TV series, and commercials. Riyaaz runs a successful metal recycling family business.
Riyaaz Makaney has dedicated over 40 years of service to the Aga Khan Development Network, holding key leadership roles that have shaped education, youth development, healthcare, and community engagement. As Chairman of The Aga Khan Education Service, India, and The Aga Khan Youth and Sports Board, India, he has significantly influenced policies and programs that uplift communities.
His role as Deputy Communications Coordinator for the Aga Khan Council for India and Editor of the Ismaili India Magazine has further strengthened communication and awareness within the community. His contributions extend to healthcare, having served as a trustee for the Prince Aly Khan Hospital, and to religious education, where he was instrumental in developing an international curriculum at the Institute of Ismaili Studies, London.
As Head of Ta’lim – A Curriculum for Ismaili Muslim Religious Education in India, he has trained over 3,000 voluntary teachers and teacher trainers, ensuring a strong foundation in faith-based learning. Riyaaz has played a pivotal role in global community engagement, leading an international team to develop a program across 60+ countries, culminating in a youth sports and arts festival in Dubai in 2025.
His expertise as a motivational speaker in Human Potential Development has inspired youth in India, the UAE, and the Far East. Additionally, his leadership development and strategic institution-building training have empowered numerous individuals and organisations.
With executive education in Social Governance from Harvard University and participation in the UK’s Commonwealth Study Conferences for Leaders, Riyaaz brings a global perspective to his work. Beyond his contributions to education and leadership, he has made his mark in the entertainment industry, acting in Hindi films such as Danger, Brahmāstra, Rocky Aur Rani, Deva, and the Inside Edge web series.
He has also appeared in an international TV serial for ITV4 UK and performed in professional English theatre across India, the UAE, and Oman. His presence extends to television and digital media, featuring in advertisements for Cadbury, HDFC, EatFit, Mebaz, JIO, Nescafé, and Vodafone.
In addition to his vast professional and community contributions, Riyaaz successfully manages his family business in metal recycling, demonstrating his versatility as a leader and entrepreneur. His journey is a testament to his commitment to service, education, leadership, and creative expression, making him a true global thought leader.
