Why I donate

My father’s kindness shaped the way I see the world. He would quietly give to schools or people in need and remind us, “If you give to others, God will give you more, and you will never be empty-handed.” Those words stayed in my heart.

My father passed away in 2016. Since 2015, I have carried forward his legacy of kindness by supporting Shaping Futures Scholarships at the University of Newcastle alongside many other causes.

My father moved from a small village to Dhaka, Bangladesh, in the 1970s and built multiple businesses from the ground up. Over the years, natural disasters and economic hardships in Bangladesh inspired him to give back through philanthropic work, helping those in need whenever he could. He taught me that giving isn’t just about money – it’s about hope, compassion, and lifting someone’s spirit when they need it most. In our family, helping others became as natural as breathing.

I support scholarships because I’ve seen how education can completely change a life. Many students work so hard but face obstacles they can’t control, and a little help can be the difference between giving up and pushing through. My donation might be small, but I know it can keep someone’s dream alive. For me, it’s not just about financial help – it’s about saying, “I believe in you.” That’s exactly what my father would have done.

I hope people realise that generosity doesn’t need to be big to matter. Sometimes the smallest gesture can mean the world to someone. I want others to know that their kindness – no matter the size – can give someone hope, courage, and the strength to keep going. That’s how we change lives, one act of giving at a time."

Dr Munshi Samaduzzaman 
Lecturer, Newcastle Business School, College of Human and Social Futures

Doctor Business Administration, 2015

What’s your story? Everyone has a unique story about why they donate though the University of Newcastle, and we would love to hear yours! Please call 02 4921 8612 or email donor-relations@newcastle.edu.au