South Asian Heritage Month: Honouring the past, inspiring the future

As part of South Asian Heritage Month, we celebrate stories of identity, migration, and the enduring strength of cultural roots. Zak Islam, Finance Business Partner, shares how his Bangladeshi heritage has shaped his values, career, and sense of belonging, offering a powerful reflection on the legacy of resilience passed down through generations.

Zak said: “My family originates from Bangladesh, having migrated to the UK in the 1960s. Community has always been at the heart of our culture. When our grandparents first arrived, they supported each other closely, living together, working together, and helping one another navigate the challenges of settling in a new country.”

Zak speaks with pride about the contributions of his relatives to the local community: “My grandfather played a key role in the local community by translating documents and writing letters for others, while my uncle helped establish the Bangladeshi community in Wednesbury by providing housing and support to newly arrived migrants. Growing up around those examples, the importance of giving back to the community became deeply ingrained in me, and it’s a principle I still carry with me today.”

Education and perseverance were cornerstones of Zak’s upbringing, values his parents championed as a route to stability.

“Like many Bangladeshi families, we were encouraged to work hard, make the most of every opportunity, and give back to our loved ones. Watching the sacrifices my parents made to give us a better future motivated me to stay focused at school and pursue a professional career. Accountancy appealed to me not only because it’s a respected and secure path but also because I genuinely enjoy numbers and problem-solving. My heritage gave me the discipline and drive to succeed, and my family’s support has been there every step of the way.”

Zak’s cultural identity remains central to his life through both faith and family. Zak explained how he stays connected to his heritage: “I stay connected to my heritage through Islamic traditions, especially during Ramadan, Eid-ul-Fitr, and Eid-ul-Adha. These are times of reflection, prayer, charity, and community. I always try to attend mosque prayers and share iftar with family and friends.

“Family gatherings are another huge part of staying rooted, whether it’s weddings or just weekend dinners with 10 or more dishes on the table. These moments remind me of the strong family bonds and deep respect for elders that define our values. Through these gatherings and religious practices, I maintain a strong sense of identity and belonging, to both my faith and my culture.”

To younger South Asians entering the workplace, Zak offers grounded and inspiring advice: “Take pride in your heritage, it gives you a strong foundation in values like respect, hard work, and resilience. These are real assets in any career. But also, be open to learning from others and adapting to different ways of thinking and working. The UK is a diverse place, and being able to connect with people from all backgrounds will help you grow both personally and professionally. Use your roots as a strength but don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. Finding that balance is key.”

Zak’s story is a powerful reminder that heritage is more than history, it’s a living influence that continues to guide, inspire, and connect us across generations.