Dr. Zakir Hussain Foundation,Aligarh

12/06/2026

Empathy is one of the greatest gifts we can offer our youth.
At the 23rd Annual Meet of the Dr. Zakir Hussain Foundation and National Conclave on Mental Health: Youth at Risk, Prof. Roomana N. Siddiqui shared an inspiring reminder that kindness, understanding, and compassion are essential for nurturing emotionally healthy individuals.
May we continue to create environments where every young person feels valued and heard.
💙 Because our youth need empathy.

11/06/2026

Sometimes, the most powerful step towards healing is finding the courage to express ourselves.
At the 23rd Annual Meet of the Dr. Zakir Hussain Foundation and the National Conclave on Mental Health: Youth at Risk, Dr. Shantanu Mukharji, IPS, Former NSA, Mauritius, shared valuable thoughts on empathy, communication, and emotional well-being.
Let us work together to create communities where every young person feels heard, valued, and supported.
💙 What role can society play in improving youth mental health?

11/06/2026

Every young person deserves not only an education but also understanding, encouragement, and emotional support.
During the 23rd ZHF Annual Meet and National Conclave on Mental Health: Youth at Risk, Prof. Salma Ahmad shared an important reminder:
"It is not only grades that matter—we must help students become holistic individuals."
As families, educators, and communities, we all play a role in creating spaces where our youth can flourish academically, emotionally, and socially.
The Dr. Zakir Hussain Foundation is proud to bring together thought leaders who encourage meaningful conversations for a stronger and more compassionate society.
What qualities do you think matter most in shaping the next generation?

06/06/2026

"Where hearts unite, humanity triumphs."

The 23rd ZHF Annual Meet 2026 was privileged to host Dr. Hafeezur Rahman as an Esteemed Speaker, whose thought-provoking address illuminated the timeless values of peace, coexistence, and the richness of India's composite culture.

A distinguished Persian and Islamic scholar, former faculty member of JNU, acclaimed author, and Convenor of the Khusro Foundation, Dr. Rahman eloquently reminded us that education is not merely the pursuit of knowledge but the cultivation of compassion, dialogue, and mutual respect.

Drawing from the wisdom of great traditions and contemporary realities, he emphasized that:
"A society grows stronger not by celebrating its differences alone, but by discovering the humanity that binds us together."

His profound reflections on interfaith harmony, pluralism, and inclusive nation-building resonated deeply with the mission of the Dr. Zakir Hussain Foundation to foster education, social justice, and communal understanding.

"Peace begins with a conversation, understanding begins with listening, and a better future begins with education."

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Hafeezur Rahman for enriching the 23rd ZHF Annual Meet with his scholarship, wisdom, and inspiring vision for a more harmonious and compassionate world.

https://youtu.be/0eYnlXPWixs

"Where hearts unite, humanity triumphs."The 23rd ZHF Annual Meet 2...

05/06/2026

♻️ Plant the Seed of Innovation, Harvest a Sustainable Tomorrow.
On the occasion of World Environment Day, the Dr. Zakir Hussain Foundation successfully organized an insightful online session on "Eco Entrepreneurship: Green Business is the Future", bringing together distinguished academicians and thought leaders to discuss sustainable innovation, environmental responsibility, and the role of entrepreneurship in creating a greener tomorrow.
Together, let us inspire innovation that nurtures both people and the planet. 🌎💚

https://youtu.be/98w6WymciN0

On the occasion of World Environment Day, the Dr. Zakir Hussain Fou...

04/06/2026

"Listening is often the first step towards healing, and meaningful conversations can change lives."

At the National Conclave on “Mental Health: Youth at Risk”, organized by the Dr. Zakir Hussain Foundation during its 23rd Annual Meet, Dr. Sarah Javed brought wisdom, empathy, and professional insight as the Moderator of the thought-provoking panel discussion.

An Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychology at Aligarh Muslim University and Assistant Coordinator of the Student Counselling Center, Dr. Sarah expertly guided the dialogue, ensuring that critical issues surrounding youth mental health were addressed with sensitivity, scientific understanding, and practical relevance.

Drawing from her rich academic and clinical experience, her research on cognition, adolescent mental health, mindfulness, and psychological well-being added remarkable depth to the conversation. Her ability to connect research, counselling, and real-life challenges helped create a platform where meaningful ideas, concerns, and solutions could be shared openly.

Recognized with prestigious honours including the Zakir Hussain Foundation Visionary Verve Award (2024) and the Young Scientist Inspirational Women Award (2021), Dr. Sarah continues to make a significant impact through her contributions to teaching, research, mentoring, and student counselling.

The Dr. Zakir Hussain Foundation expresses its sincere appreciation to Dr. Sarah Javed for leading an engaging and insightful discussion that reinforced the importance of awareness, empathy, and timely intervention in safeguarding the mental well-being of our youth.

https://youtu.be/-CXmHVgXLK0

At the National Conclave on “Mental Health: Youth at Risk”, organiz...

01/06/2026

🎙️ "If we truly want to build a stronger future, we must first understand the silent battles our youth are fighting today."

In this insightful address during the panel discussion on "Mental Health: Youth At Risk," Mr. Syed Mohammad Waheed eloquently represented the voice of today's generation—highlighting the emotional, social, and psychological challenges confronting young people in an increasingly digital and fast-paced world.

As a Published AI Ethics Author, Global AI Ambassador, AI Research Leader, and an Invited Speaker at the UK Parliament, Mr. Waheed brought a unique perspective to the conversation, connecting the realities of modern technology, digital transformation, societal expectations, and mental well-being.

His thought-provoking reflections emphasized that while technology continues to reshape our lives, human connection, empathy, resilience, and meaningful support systems remain essential for nurturing mentally healthy and empowered youth.

Through his powerful insights, he called upon parents, educators, policymakers, industry leaders, and society at large to listen more attentively to young voices, create safe spaces for dialogue, and prioritize mental health as a collective responsibility rather than an individual struggle.

We are delighted to share his inspiring contribution to the National Conclave on "Mental Health: Youth At Risk" organized by the Dr. Zakir Hussain Foundation.

🎥 Watch the video and gain valuable insights into one of the most critical conversations of our time.

https://youtu.be/kx7F_rubGaA

"The future belongs to the youth, but their well-being depends on the choices we make today."

Youth are navigating unprecedented challenges in a rapidly evolving...

31/05/2026

Prof. Roomana Siddiqui, Former Chairperson, Department of Psychology, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh shared a deeply insightful, compassionate, and thought-provoking perspective during the National Conclave on “Mental Health: Youth At Risk” organized by the Dr. Zakir Hussain Foundation at Aligarh.

She highlighted how mental health has long been mystified and stigmatized in society, despite being as important and natural as physical health. Prof. Roomana Siddiqui emphasized that stress, anxiety, frustration, and mild depression are part of human life, but the real challenge lies in learning how to cope with them in a healthy and aware manner.

Addressing the alarming rise in emotional distress among youth, she pointed out how instant gratification, cut-throat competition, academic pressure, comparisons, and unrealistic expectations often make young people feel that failure in marks, careers, or opportunities is “the end of life.” She strongly reminded everyone that life is far bigger and more beautiful than grades, professions, or achievements alone.

Sharing her own personal experience of coping with depression after losing her brother, she explained how creative pursuits like bird watching, photography, and painting helped her heal emotionally and rediscover herself. She emphasized that creativity can become a powerful coping mechanism for handling stress and mental pressure.

Prof. Roomana Siddiqui also stressed the urgent need for emotional sensitivity and collaboration among parents, teachers, counselors, and institutions. A single insensitive comment from a teacher or parent can deeply affect a child struggling emotionally. She called for the “demystification” of mental health through awareness, open conversations, and emotional education from an early age.

Speaking about the impact of Covid-19, she observed that the pandemic not only created a physical health crisis but also exposed a parallel mental health pandemic that affected people across all age groups and social backgrounds.

She further highlighted the growing influence of digital platforms and social media, cautioning that self-diagnosis through online content without proper awareness can sometimes worsen anxiety among youth. Instead, she encouraged seeking guidance from the right professionals and platforms.

Prof. Roomana Siddiqui beautifully explained the importance of emotional and social intelligence — understanding oneself, regulating emotions, being mindful of others’ feelings, and learning how to manage relationships effectively.

📺 Watch the video here:

https://youtu.be/xSd7IyvvUn0?feature=shared

🎙️ Insightful Address by during the Panel Discussion on “Mental Hea...

29/05/2026

🎥 “Youth need encouragement, communication, confidence, and emotional support — not constant comparison and pressure.”

Rekha Gupta, Film Curator, Creative Consultant, Film Critic, and Former Member of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), shared a deeply emotional and realistic perspective during the National Conclave on “Mental Health: Youth At Risk” organized by the Dr. Zakir Hussain Foundation at Aligarh.

Speaking about the harsh realities of the film and entertainment industry, she highlighted how nepotism, rejection, insecurity, competition, and lack of emotional support often push many young aspirants into depression, anxiety, and emotional breakdowns. Referring to experiences from beauty pageants and the film industry, she explained how talented youngsters often lose confidence when favoritism overshadows merit.

She pointed out that even globally celebrated personalities have struggled with depression, while many outsiders entering the industry without support systems or “godfathers” face humiliation, exclusion, emotional isolation, and extreme pressure to constantly prove themselves. According to her, these struggles become even more difficult for young women working in highly competitive environments.

Rekha Gupta strongly emphasized the importance of “samvaad” — meaningful communication between parents and children. She urged parents, especially mothers and fathers alike, to regularly communicate with their children, particularly those living away from home, because emotional disconnect often becomes the beginning of silent depression.

She also spoke about the unhealthy pressure created by social comparison, body image expectations, social status, luxury culture, and constant competition among children and youth. Comparing lifestyles, appearances, possessions, or achievements, she said, can deeply affect self-esteem and mental well-being from a very young age.

Sharing a beautiful message of self-belief and positive affirmation, she encouraged young people to stand before the mirror every day and remind themselves:
“I am the best.”

Through her poetic words, she emphasized that every individual is unique, valuable, beautiful, and capable in their own way. She reminded youth not to break under pressure, but to stay focused on their goals with resilience, discipline, positivity, and self-confidence.

Rekha Gupta also highlighted the healing power of music, discipline, creativity, and emotional encouragement in reducing stress and depression among youth.

https://youtu.be/O9gr7_eeSEY?si=9X_5BG1oh75dSyb_

🎙️ Insightful Address by during the Panel Discussion on “Mental Health: Youth at Risk” organised by the under its Flagship Project “Intellectual Horizons.”R...

26/05/2026

Mr. M. Asif Habib, successful entrepreneur and Chairman, Habsons Group of Companies, shared a highly practical and inspiring perspective during the National Conclave on “Mental Health: Youth At Risk” organized by the Dr. Zakir Hussain Foundation at Aligarh.

Speaking from the viewpoint of an entrepreneur and employer, he highlighted how today’s youth, especially students after Class X onwards, begin experiencing stress very early in life — from choosing academic streams, deciding careers, meeting parental expectations, and later struggling to find the right opportunities after completing their education.

He emphasized that many fresh graduates step into their first jobs already burdened with anxiety and self-doubt — questioning whether they belong in the workplace, whether their mistakes will be accepted, and whether they will be given opportunities to learn and grow.

Mr. Habib pointed out that in today’s competitive corporate environment, organizations often unknowingly increase pressure on freshers. He stressed that young professionals should first be treated as learners rather than being immediately burdened with unrealistic expectations.

Sharing his thoughts as a responsible member of society and a successful businessman, he advised youth to remain patient, continuously learn, and understand that success is a gradual journey — not an overnight achievement.

He also highlighted the positive role technology and digital learning platforms can play when used constructively. According to him, today’s youth have access to unlimited opportunities for learning and skill development, but they need the right guidance, environment, and encouragement to grow confidently.

Mr. Habib strongly emphasized that supportive workplaces, empathetic leadership, and healthy communication between seniors and fresh employees can significantly reduce anxiety and mental stress among youth entering professional life.

https://youtu.be/sveZ4WIazj0?si=vwoEsUMfDijoiHEa

🎙️ Insightful Address by M. Asif Habib during the Panel Discussion on “Mental Health: Youth at Risk” organised by the Dr. Zakir Hussain Foundation.Respondin...