Early Life and Inspiration:
You were born in a middle-class family in Karachi. How did your upbringing shape your perspective on social issues?
There are two types of social workers; those who accumulate wealth and later decide to give back by building hospitals or helping the poor, and those who are ‘Razakars,’ born with a natural inclination to sacrifice for the happiness of others. It’s like a child among four who willingly gives up his toy so the others can have one. Our way of thinking is different, we don’t see service as a choice but as a responsibility.
What inspired you to start JDC, and how did the journey begin?
During the 2010 floods, I was working as a sales
manager in a multinational company. When I visited the affected areas, I saw
things that should never happen, aid being distributed based on religion or
language. I believed that in a crisis, no one should have to answer questions
before receiving help. That realization led me to establish a foundation that
would serve humanity unconditionally.
Who were your role models or inspirations in life, and how have they influenced your journey?
My greatest inspiration has always been
Edhi Sahab. His commitment to serving all people, regardless of background,
taught me that true humanitarian work knows no boundaries.
Did you face any resistance or
challenges from your family or community when starting JDC? If so, how did you
overcome them?
I have faced countless challenges. In 2012, our ambulance was attacked, and four
of our drivers were killed. We lost two education heads and a rescue worker.
Organizations like Edhi and Chhipa have faced similar tragedies, but when it
happened to us, we truly understood the pain of loss and the burden of facing
the families of those martyred.
Even
today, we face ongoing challenges, people spending money to run false campaigns
against us. But we don’t engage in distractions. We remain focused on our
mission and continue to serve.
JDC and Social Welfare:
JDC addresses several critical issues, such as education and health. How do you prioritize which initiatives to focus on?
At JDC, we don’t believe in prioritizing one need over another—every aspect of life matters. From birth to death, we have expanded our services to cover every essential domain, including healthcare, education, and emergency relief. Each initiative holds equal importance because every human need is interconnected.
Can you share some of the most impactful projects or success stories?
Every project we undertake is crucial because it directly impacts lives. Whether it’s providing food, running hospitals, or offering education, each initiative is designed to fulfill a fundamental need that cannot be compromised.
What role does teamwork play in JDC’s operations, and how do you motivate your team to stay committed to the cause?
Teamwork is the backbone of JDC. We have experienced professionals leading every department, ensuring efficiency and expertise in all our initiatives. Unlike volunteer-based setups, our professionals receive salaries because we believe committed work requires financial stability. This approach allows us to maintain accountability and sustain long-term efforts.
How do you ensure transparency and accountability in JDC’s operations, especially with donations and resources?
Transparency is a core value at JDC. We maintain a rigorous audit system, conducted by a UK-based firm and regulated by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). Every donation and resource is accounted for, ensuring public trust in our work.
Social Issues and Impact:
What do you think are the biggest challenges faced by the lower class in Pakistan, and how can society address them effectively?
The lower class faces countless struggles, but they have learned to survive despite the hardships. However, the lower middle class is in complete crisis, they are neither eligible for aid nor financially stable enough to sustain themselves. They are drowning in loans, unable to pay bills, school fees, or rent. This financial strain is taking a toll on their health, leading to increased cases of stress-related illnesses like diabetes and heart disease. Addressing these issues requires structural reforms, economic opportunities, and community-driven support systems.
How has the social and economic landscape in Pakistan evolved since you started JDC?
Unfortunately, the situation has only worsened over time. With rising population pressures and deteriorating economic conditions, the challenges have multiplied rather than improved.
What role do you believe the youth can play in addressing social issues?
The youth must first focus on securing their own future, education and financial independence are crucial. Start small; build a business, support your own household, and help your relatives who are struggling. Social change begins at home, and once individuals become stable, they can contribute meaningfully to the broader society.
How do you handle criticism or challenges when working on sensitive social issues?
I don’t let negativity affect me. My focus is on my mission and my people. As long as I am working toward my vision, criticism doesn’t matter.
What do you think is the most pressing social issue in Pakistan today, and how can it be addressed?
Right now, survival is the biggest concern. People are not thinking about the future, they are simply struggling to afford three meals a day and keep their children from going to bed hungry. In such times, faith keeps us going, and we trust that Allah will create a way forward.
Personal Insights:
Running a social welfare organization is incredibly demanding. How do you stay motivated and avoid burnout?
I chose this path willingly, no one forced me into it. Managing free projects with massive expenses is challenging, but we move forward with the will and support provided by Allah. That faith keeps us going.
What personal qualities or values do you believe are essential for someone working in social welfare?
Humanity, nothing else is needed. If you truly feel for others, the rest follows naturally.
How has your work with JDC changed or shaped you as a person?
When I started JDC, I had no health issues. Today, I deal with depression, diabetes, and high blood pressure. This work takes a toll, but the mission keeps me going.
How do you balance your personal life with the immense responsibilities of managing JDC?
People like me don’t have a personal life. The cause becomes everything.
Aren’t you scared of threats?
I have seen friends and colleagues who raised their voices being murdered—I have buried them with my own hands. Allah looked after their families, and if something happens to me, He will take care of mine too. Fear has no place in this work.
You have a distinct personal style, simple dressing, plain polo shirts. Is there a reason behind it, or is it just a preference?
People with my body type prefer comfort. Simple clothing allows me to focus on work without distractions.
Zafar Abbas’s journey shows the power of kindness, dedication, and hard work. Through JDC, he has helped countless people, proving that real change comes from taking action. His story is a reminder that even in tough times, helping others can make a big difference. As we reflect on his words, one thing is clear: in a world where many turn away, it is the few who step forward that truly make a difference.
