Bassim Haidar’s multifaceted journey as a serial entrepreneur, executive, and philanthropist has undeniably left an indelible mark on the UK and the Commonwealth, shaping diverse sectors for over three decades. Serving as the Honorary Consul of South Africa to the UK, he is a key figure in fostering trade and bilateral business relations, embodying a commitment to international collaboration.
In the realm of business, Bassim‘s impact extends across an impressive array of sectors, including fintech, technology, telecoms, logistics, energy, and even medicinal cannabis. His companies not only drive economic growth but also champion financial inclusion, contributing significantly to the development of the UK, Emerging Markets, and the Commonwealth as a whole.
His involvement with E2E as an Advisory Board Director and Investor showcases his dedication to nurturing UK entrepreneurship. Playing a pivotal role in its success, he is actively working with me and my team to support 24,000 founders and business leaders across the UK. Coupled with this, Bassim is injecting vitality into the realms of British, Europe, and Commonwealth innovation, science, and technology through building a strategic partnership between E2E and Knuru Capital, his venture fund injecting investment capital into high-growth businesses.
Bassim‘s foresight is evident in his latest venture, a British company founded in 2022 invested millions to establish an Electric Vehicle (EV) battery manufacturing facility. By doing so, he aims to reduce the UK’s dependence on China for carbon-free energy needs, making a significant contribution to sustainable and environmentally friendly practices.
Having founded his first company at the age of 20, Bassim now helms a global conglomerate with revenues surpassing $2 billion. Optasia, formerly Channel VAS, serves over serves over 860 million people in 35+ countries, focusing on financial inclusion and smart handset financing. Channel IT, founded in 2003, addresses Nigeria’s connectivity needs, operating in 19 countries today. His latest venture, SafriCanna, a South African medicinal cannabis company, holds an EU GMP license and exports products to EU countries and the United Kingdon, showcasing his commitment to advancing healthcare solutions locally.
Bassim is an active philanthropist, supporting numerous charitable organisations including Clic Sargent, St. Jude’s Children Cancer Hospital, The Queen’s Commonwealth Trust, Kidney Research UK, The Cancel Well-Being Service, and others.
Bassim also sponsored the second largest squash tournament held in the UK, with all proceeds going to charity. His appointment to Amnesty International’s Global Council in 2016 reflects his ongoing dedication to various causes, emphasizing a holistic approach to societal improvement. Residing in London, Bassim remains a dynamic force, not only in his companies but also in the political and philanthropic spheres.
Despite being one of the UK’s leading philanthropists, his humility and focus on impact over personal recognition solidify his position as a lesser known yet influential figure, continually shaping positive change on a global scale.