Prince Amyn Aga Khan’s 87th Birthday on September 12, 2024, Coincides with the 10th Anniversary of the Inauguration of Two Beautiful Canadian Cultural Buildings: The Aga Khan Museum and the Ismaili Centre Toronto

Prince Amyn Aga Khan speaking at the ipening ceremony of the Aga Khan Museum in Toronto
Prince Amyn Aga Khan delivered his address at the inauguration ceremony of the Aga Khan Museum in Toronto on September 12, 2014, which was also his 77th birthday. Photograph: AKDN.

On September 12, 2024, Prince Amyn Mohamed Aga Khan, brother of Mawlana Hazar Imam, His Highness the Aga Khan, and Princess Yasmin Aga Khan marks his 87th birthday. We join together to congratulate Prince Amyn on this special day and wish him a happy birthday and many more to come. We also take this opportunity to extend our warmest congratulations to Mawlana Hazar Imam and all his family members for celebrating this joyous occasion.

For almost six decades, Prince Amyn has dedicated his entire life to the Institution of Imamat, channelling his creativity, intelligence, time and energy, knowledge and leadership in numerous Imamat endeavours benefiting both jamati (Ismaili community) and non-jamati constituencies. His dedication has left a lasting impact, and his contributions are deeply appreciated. Rarely does Mawlana Hazar Imam single out and praise his family members for their contribution to the Imamat. One such rare instance was during a speech he made at the Ismaili Centre Toronto (ICT) opening ceremony on September 12, 2014, which also coincided with the 77th birthday of Prince Amyn. The opening of the Aga Khan Museum — please see our incredible post celebrating the 10th anniversary of the Museum — by the then Prime Minister Stephen Harper took place on the same day. Mawlana Hazar Imam said at the ICT: “It is with deepest admiration that I thank the person whose guiding hand has been so important at every stage of this project: a member of my family, my brother, Prince Amyn Aga Khan.”

The Prince has inspired the entire Ismaili Jamat around the world. As we honour him on his 87th birthday through two special sections below — Beautiful Photographic Moments and Prince Amyn Aga Khan Represents the Ismaili Imamat 2021-2024 — we invite our readers to read and reflect on the following earlier pieces about Prince Amyn.

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Beautiful Photographic Moments: Prince Amyn Aga Khan and His Brother Mawlana Hazar Imam, His Highness the Aga Khan

Three young children sitting at a table with food and drinks, with one child in a high chair. The children are dressed in classic attire, creating a nostalgic atmosphere.
Prince Karim left, with his uncle Prince Sadruddin (centre) and younger brother Prince Amyn, on his 2nd birthday on December 13, 1938. Photograph: Ismaili Crescent (issue 13-12-1969) published by the Ismailia Association for Tanzania.

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A historical black-and-white photograph featuring a woman dressed in a light-colored suit standing between two young boys, holding hands with one boy. The scene is set against a backdrop of lush greenery.
Prince Amyn (left) and Prince Karim are pictured with their mother, Princess Tajuddawlah (April 22, 1908 – April 27, 1997), during their childhood in Nairobi, Kenya. Photograph: Jan Karmali Collection, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.

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Prince Karim and Prince Amyn at play on a tree
Prince Karim and Prince Amyn at play on a tree during their childhood in Kenya. Photo: Africa Ismaili, July 1982.

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Aga Khan III with grandsons Prince Karim and Prince Amyn
Mawlana Sultan Mahomed Shah, His Highness the Aga Khan III, 48th Ismaili Imam, with his grandsons Prince Amyn (right) and Prince Karim, who succeeded him on July 11, 1957, as the 49th Hereditary Ismaili Imam. The picture was taken in Nairobi, Kenya, in 1942. Photograph: 25 Years in Pictures. Islamic Publications, London, UK, Volume 1.

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Aga Khan Leading Eid ul Fir prayers at age 7 in Nairobi Simerg and Barakah
Prince Karim led the Eid ul Fitr prayers in Nairobi on or around September 19, 1944, with his brother Prince Amyn and Jamati leaders and members behind him. Photograph: 25 Years in Pictures. Islamic Publications, London, UK, Volume 1.

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His Highness the Aga Khan III with Prince Aly Khan, Princess Yasmin, Prince Sadruddin, Prince Amyn Muhammad and His Highness the Aga Khan IV
Mawlana Sultan Mahomed Shah, the 48th Ismaili Imam, with family members. Standing from l to r: Prince Amyn Mohamed, Prince Sadruddin, Prince Aly Khan holding Princess Yasmin, and Mawlana Shah Karim al Hussaini Hazar Imam. Photograph: Zul Khoja Family Collection.

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Prince Amyn Aga Khan with his brother His Highness the Aga Khan
Mawlana Hazar Imam, His Highness the Aga Khan (right), with his younger brother Prince Amyn. The location and date of the photograph are unknown.

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Aga Khan and Prince Amyn Barakah Birthday tribute
Prince Amyn (left) and Mawlana Hazar Imam, His Highness the Aga Khan, at the Hadrian Award Ceremony, October 25, 1996.

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Aga Khan and Prince Amyn
Mawlana Hazar Imam, His Highness the Aga Khan (left), and his younger brother Prince Amyn pictured at a ceremony held in November 2010 in Paris when the Government of France conferred them with honours for their contributions to culture, both personally and through the activities of the Aga Khan Development Network. Photograph: Farida Brechemier Guerdjou/MCC via the Ismaili.

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Prince Amyn Aga Khan delivering a speech on stage, wearing traditional attire and addressing the audience, with another individual seated beside him.
Mawlana Hazar Imam, His Highness the Aga Khan, shares a light moment with his Ismaili followers at the Diamond Jubilee Darbar in Lisbon on July 11, 2018, as his younger brother Prince Amyn looks on. Photograph: The Ismaili/Zahur Ramji.

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October 24, 2021: Prince Amyn Aga Khan and Portuguese President Inaugurate NOVA University’s Westmont Hospitality Hall

Prince Amyn Aga Khan welcomes President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa to the NOVA School of Business and Economics campus in Carcavelos for the inauguration of Westmont Hospitality Hall. PHOTO: AKDN / LUÍS CATARINO
Prince Amyn Aga Khan, welcomes Portugal’s President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa to the NOVA School of Business and Economics campus in Carcavelos for the inauguration of Westmont Hospitality Hall; October 24, 2021. Photograph: AKDN/Luís Catarino.

On October 24, 2021, Portugal’s President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa joined Prince Amyn Aga Khan to inaugurate the Westmont Hospitality Hall at NOVA University in Lisbon, Portugal. The newly opened space will serve as a home for the Westmont Institute of Tourism and Hospitality at NOVA University’s School of Business and Economics (SBE). The school’s students and faculty are an open and collaborative community focused on the positive impact of their work and research worldwide.

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Prince Amyn Aga Khan and Portugal President, Barakah
Prince Amyn Aga Khan and Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa formally open Westmont Hospitality Hall on October 24, 2021. Looking on at right is Majid Mangalji, CEO of Westmont Hospitality Group. Photograph: AKDN/Luís Catarino.

In his remarks at the event, Prince Amyn congratulated NOVA SBE and shared his hopes for the project’s future. “The Westmont Institute of Tourism and Hospitality will have the mission to inspire and prepare leaders in the tourism and hospitality industries,” he said, “providing not only excellence in service but sound business knowledge to promote and support sustainable tourism ventures both in Portugal and, I hope, in Africa and developing countries.”

“I think that tourism, by opening up to travellers’ new lifestyles, new cultures, new traditions, acts as a strong educational experience and breeds understanding, and appreciation of shared values — of how much we share, and not how great are our differences, and that ultimately it promotes a pluralistic approach,” continued Prince Amyn, who has decades of experience in the tourism and hospitality industry globally.

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July 8, 2022: Prince Amyn Aga Khan and Members of Mawlana Hazar Imam’s Family Attend an Open Air-Concert at Lisbon’s São Jorge Castle

Aga Khan Master Musicians perform in Lisbon
Prince Amyn, Prince Hussain and Prince Aly Muhammad are joined by guests and public members at a concert performed by the Aga Khan Master Musicians in the spectacular surroundings of the São Jorge Castle in Lisbon; July 8, 2022. Photograph: Fernando Costa/IPL.

On July 8, 2022, Prince Amyn, Prince Hussain, and Prince Aly Muhammad attended a special open-air concert by the Aga Khan Master Musicians at Lisbon’s spectacular São Jorge Castle. The concert came about via a partnership between the Delegation of the Ismaili Imamat to Portugal, the Aga Khan Music Programme, and EGEAC, the agency responsible for cultural equipment and programming in Lisbon. The aim was to offer an evening of musical delights to citizens and visitors in Lisbon. With this concert, the Aga Khan Master Musicians began looking forward to resuming their regular performance schedule and playing in unique venues and settings like the one in Lisbon after a long hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Distinguished guests at the live event included President of the Portuguese Republic Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, Mayor of Lisbon Carlos Moedas, and Minister of Justice Catarina Sarmento e Castro.

Aga Khan Master Musicians perform in Lisbon in the presence of Prince Amyn Aga Kha, Prince Hussain Aga Khan and Prince Aly Muhammad Aga Khan
Aga Khan Master Musicians open-air concert on July 8, 2022, at Lisbon’s São Jorge Castle Clockwise from top left: Prince Amyn Aga Khan welcomes Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa; Prince Hussain in conversation with Mayor of Lisbon, Carlos Moedas (right); Joana Gomes Cardoso, President of EGEAC (centre); and Antónia Amaral, director of Castelo São Jorge; the music artists and guests pose for a group photograph after the concert; and Prince Aly Muhammad congratulates guest artist Marco Oliveira following his performance with the Aga Khan Master Musicians. Photographs: Fernando Costa/IPL.

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July 11, 2022: Prince Amyn Aga Khan at Mawlana Hazar Imam’s 65th Imamat Anniversary

The following photograph was taken on July 11, 2022, to mark the 65th Imamat Day of our beloved Mawlana Hazar Imam. 

Aga Khan with members of his family Lisbon July 11 2022 Barakah
Mawlana Hazar Imam, His Highness the Aga Khan, with his younger brother Prince Amyn, and children, Princess Zahra, Prince Rahim, Prince Hussain, and Prince Aly Muhammad, on Imamat Day, July 11, 2022. Photograph: Fernando Costa/IPL via The Ismaili.

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August 8, 2022: Prince Amyn Aga Khan Bestowed with Honorary Citizenship of Houston and Appointed as City’s Goodwill Ambassador

Prince Amyn Aga Khan Honorary Citizen of Houston
Prince Amyn Aga Khan received Honorary Citizenship of Houston from the City of Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner on August 7, 2022. Photograph: Akbar Hakim/IPL.

Prince Amyn Aga Khan was presented with the Honorary Citizenship of Houston when he met with the city’s Mayor, the Honorable Sylvester Turner, at City Hall shortly after his arrival in the city to review progress on the construction of the Ismaili Center, Houston, across from Buffalo Bayou Park in the heart of Houston.

Mayor Turner issued the following message on his Facebook page:

“Today, I welcomed Prince Amyn Aga Khan to Houston and bestowed an Honorary Citizenship to the City of Houston in recognition of his “unselfish public service for the benefit and welfare of humanity,” and selected him as a Goodwill Ambassador of Houston. Prince Amyn exemplifies the values of pluralism and inclusivity that also make the City of Houston one of the most diverse metropolitans in the world. I look forward to continuing our partnership with the Ismaili Imamat and the Ismaili community here to build bridges of friendships.”

As a token of his high esteem, Mayor Turner also appointed Prince Amyn as a Goodwill Ambassador of the City of Houston.

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August 11, 2022: Prince Amyn Aga Khan and Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner Reflect on the Ismaili Center Houston

Prince Amyn Aga Khan speaking in Houston Texas on August 11, 2022. He was joined by Sylvester Turner Mayor of Houston to review the development of the Ismaili Center Houston.
Prince Amyn Aga Khan shared his reflections on The Ismaili Center Houston at a development luncheon in downtown Houston on Thursday, August 11, 2022. Photograph: Akbar Hakim/IPL.

“The Ismaili Center is an ambitious project not just for the Ismaili Muslim community, but for all Houstonians…[It] is intended to be a resource for all Houstonians as a place to come together with local, national, and international partners — many of whom are here today — to enhance the vibrant nature and rich cultural tapestry of this city,” said Prince Amyn Aga Khan, at the Ismaili Center’s development luncheon held in downtown Houston on Thursday, August 11, 2022.

Honourable Sylvester Turner Mayor of Houston with Prince Amyn Aga Khan Ismaili Centre review
Prince Amyn Aga Khan was joined by Houston’s Mayor, the Honourable Sylvester Turner, on Thursday, August 11, 2022, to review the development of the Ismaili Center Houston. Photograph: Mayor Sylvester Turner, Facebook page.

Houston’s Mayor, the Honorable Sylvester Turner, said on his Facebook page: “I joined Prince Amyn Aga Khan today [August 11, 2022] for The Ismaili Center Houston development luncheon. The Center will be a place where Houstonians of all backgrounds come together to strengthen and forge new bonds as they work together.”

In his address at the luncheon, the Mayor said, “The Ismaili Center Houston will be a magnificent building, both physically — with its landmark architecture, picturesque gardens, and ingenious design — and societally speaking, through its impact on Houston, across Texas, and throughout the United States.”

Mayor Sylvester Turner introduces Prince Amyn to Houston Police Department Chief Troy Finner; August 11, 2022.
Mayor Sylvester Turner introduces Prince Amyn Aga Khan to Houston Police Department Chief Troy Finner; August 11, 2022. Photograph: Akbar Hakim/IPL.

Houston was recently declared the most diverse city in the United States. As the fourth most populous city in the country (2022 population of Metro Houston  6,603,000), it also boasts a fast-growing artistic and cultural scene. The Center will enable the Ismaili Muslim Jamat (community) to play a greater part in this growth.

“I have always believed that art and culture are effective ways to connect communities, and one of the Center’s objectives will be to offer the highest caliber of cultural programming and promote cultural dialogue, which are all key elements of enhancing one’s quality of life,” said Prince Amyn. “The dialogue between cultures has forever existed as a result of man’s urge and need to travel, to discover, to meet people, to share experiences, to buy and to sell. Cultural dialogue unites by showing, by underlining what we share despite our apparent differences,” he added.

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September 27, 2022: Prince Amyn Aga Khan Attends Groundbreaking Ceremony for Generations Toronto

Premiere Ford, Generations Toronto, Prince Amyn Aga Khan
Prince Amyn Aga Khan (left) welcomes Ontario Premier Doug Ford to the future site of Generations Toronto, as Ismaili leaders Ameerally Kassim-Lakha (centre), President of the Aga Khan Ismaili Council for Canada, Malik Talib and Shafik Sachedina look on. Photograph: IPL/Zahur Ramji

Prince Amyn attended the groundbreaking ceremony on Tuesday, September 27, 2022, for Generations Toronto, a multi-generational housing development near the Ismaili Centre in Toronto. Distinguished guests included Ontario Premier Doug Ford, Toronto’s Mayor John Tory, and local, national, and international leaders of the Ismaili community.

Based on a successful pilot project launched in Calgary during Mawlana Hazar Imam’s Golden Jubilee in 2007, Generations Toronto is a unique community campus that will offer services to bring together and support its residents and neighbours. Its fundamental premise is to enhance the value and dignity of human life.

Generations Toronto foundation ceremony attended by Prince Amyn Aga Khan, Toronto Mayor and Ontario Premier, Barakah news
Toronto Mayor John Tory, Prince Amyn Aga Khan, and Ontario Premier Doug Ford unveil the ceremonial plaque for Generations Toronto at the Ismaili Centre Toronto on September 27, 2022. Photograph: IPL/Zahur Ramji

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September 25, 2022: Prince Amyn Aga Khan Receives Key to the City of Toronto on Behalf of Mawlana Hazar Imam

His Highness the Aga Khan has made remarkable contributions within our city and within the culture and heritage of Toronto’s Ismaili community. Particularly, the Ismaili Centre at Aga Khan Park has become a landmark in our city for the Ismaili community but for residents and visitors as well. I am proud to present His Highness the Aga Khan with Toronto’s highest honour and unveil a section of Wynford Drive renamed in recognition of his many contributions to Toronto — Toronto Mayor John Tory

Key Citu of Toronto to Aga Khan, Barakah
The Key to the City of Toronto was awarded on September 25, 2022, to Mawlana Hazar Imam for his work to improve the quality of life of people worldwide. The ceremony was held at the Ismaili Centre Toronto. Photograph: Zahur Ramji/IPL.

September 25, 2022, News Release City of Toronto: Today, Toronto’s Mayor honoured humanitarian His Highness the Aga Khan with a Key to the City. Accepting the Key on his behalf was Prince Amyn Aga Khan, His Highness’ brother. The City of Toronto has also renamed the portion of Wynford Drive, between Don Mills Road and the east side of the Don Valley Parkway overpass, to Aga Khan Boulevard. … READ MORE ON TORONTO

Aga Khan Blvd Naming at Ismaili Centre Toronto, Barakah
Prince Amyn Aga Khan and Mayor of Toronto John Tory unveil the sign for Aga Khan Boulevard on Wynford Drive in a ceremony held on September 25, 2022, at the Ismaili Centre Toronto. Photograph: Asif Bhalesha/IPL.

“We have looked to Canada as a model of pluralism for the world,” said Prince Amyn Aga Khan, who delivered remarks and received the honours on behalf of his brother, His Highness the Aga Khan. “The community’s presence here would not have been possible were it not for Toronto and Canada’s profound commitment to embracing and celebrating diversity.”

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October 29-31, 2022: Prince Amyn Aga Khan at the Aga Khan Music Awards and the Aga Khan Award for Architecture, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman

Prince Amyn Aga Khan with His Highnesss H Sayyid Kamil bin Fahd Al Said on the opening day of the Aga Khan Music Awards held in Muscat, Oman on Saturday October 29, 2022. Seated at left is Princess Zahra Aga Khan.
Prince Amyn Aga Khan with His Highness H Sayyid Kamil bin Fahd Al Said on the Aga Khan Music Awards opening day held in Muscat, Oman, on Saturday, October 29, 2022. Seated at the left is Princess Zahra Aga Khan. Photograph: Oman Info of the Sultanate of Oman, published under Oman Open Government License – Oman.

Barakah has covered the presentation ceremonies of the Aga Khan Music Awards and the Aga Khan Award for Architecture as well as related events that took place from October 29-31 in Muscat, Oman, in great detail. The link to each event is provided below following the corresponding photograph.

Three men are standing on stage during an award ceremony. The center figure, dressed in traditional Omani attire, holds a framed certificate. The man to his left is dressed in a white Omani dishdasha and a yellow belt, while the man to his right is wearing a grey suit.
Omani artist Musallam Ahmed Al Kathiri (centre) is pictured with His Highness Sayyid Bilarab bin Haitham Al Said and Prince Amyn Aga Khan as he holds a plaque honouring him for his contributions to the preservation and promotion of Omani musical heritage.

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Two men standing at a podium holding documents at an award ceremony for the Aga Khan Award for Architecture. The setting features decorative elements including flags and flowers.
Prince Amyn Aga Khan and His Excellency Sayyid Saeed bin Sultan Al Busaidi at the launching of the stamps to commemorate the Aga Khan Award for Architecture and the Aga Khan Music Awards before the commencement of a seminar.

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A gathering of distinguished guests seated in a conference hall, with a focus on a diverse audience including men and women dressed in formal attire amid an elegant setting.
Prince Amyn Aga Khan, Princess Zahra and Prince Hussain attend the Aga Khan Award for Architecture Winners’ Seminar on Sunday, October 30, 2022, in Muscat, Oman. Photograph: Oman News Agency, a portal of the Oman Info.

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November 11, 2022: Prince Amyn Aga Khan and Prince Rahim at the Paris Peace Forum

Group photo at the Paris Peace Forum, featuring attendees gathered around a distinguished guest in front of the event's logo.
Prince Amyn Aga Khan with volunteers from the community at the 5th annual session of the Paris Peace Forum held on November 11-12, 2022. Photograph: The Ismaili/Guillaume Bonn.

The person behind the Paris Peace Forum is the Executive Committee that decides on the Forum’s overall organization and activities.

Mawlana Hazar Imam has attended the annual forum in the past. More recently, members of his family have represented him at numerous events. The 2022 Forum returned to its normal setting after COVID-19, and Prince Amyn was present along with Prince Rahim, who attended it for the first time.

A group of professionals standing in front of a display for the Climate Pathways Project at a conference. The display features the MIT Management Sustainability Initiative. The individuals are engaged in discussion and are dressed in business attire.
Prince Rahim Aga Khan with the Climate Pathways Project team at the 5th annual session of the Paris Peace Forum held on November 11-12, 2022. Photograph: The Ismaili/Guillaume Bonn.

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June 6, 2023: Prince Amyn Aga Khan visits Porto for the Opening Ceremony of the “Schools2030 Global Forum” and Signing of AKFP- City of Porto Agreement to Promote Quality of Life

Prince Amyn Aga Khan, younger brother of Mawlana Hazar Imam, His Highness the Aga Khan, is received by Porto's Mayor as he arrives at the for the signing of an agreement between Aga Khan Foundation Portugal and the Municipality of Porto. Looking on is Nazim Ahmad, Diplomatic Representative of the Ismaili Imamat to the Portuguese Republic; June 6, 2023. Photograph: www.porto.pt.
Prince Amyn Aga Khan is received by Porto’s Mayor, Rui Moreira, as he arrives at Alfândega do Porto to sign an agreement between Aga Khan Foundation Portugal and the Municipality of Porto. Looking on is Nazim Ahmad, Diplomatic Representative of the Ismaili Imamat to the Portuguese Republic; June 6, 2023. Photograph: Filipa Brito/www.porto.pt.

Porto.pt, a web portal containing information about the city of Porto, reported that Prince Amyn Aga Khan signed a cooperation agreement between the Aga Khan Foundation Portugal (AKFP) and The Municipality of Porto on Monday, June 6, 2023, at the Alfândega do Porto (Alfandega Congress Center). Readers are invited to visit the web portal to learn the agreement’s highlights in Portuguese and English.

After the signing of the agreement, the Mayor of Porto, Rui Moreira, and Prince Amyn attended the opening ceremony of the “Schools2030 Global Forum,” which took place for the first time in Portugal and was held at the Congress Centre for three days.

In his address, the Mayor said Porto “has a long tradition of humanism and solidarity, of openness and intercultural dialogue, of tolerance and political pluralism, of promoting education, science and innovation.” He added: “Therefore, [the city of Porto] shares the goals of equity, inclusion, and quality that the ‘Schools2030’ program and the Aga Khan Foundation are promoting in education systems in the so-called global south”.

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The Mayor of Porto, Rui Moreira, and Prince Amyn Aga Khan, younger brother of Mawlana Hazar Imam, His Highness the Aga Khan, sign an agreement of cooperation between the Municipality of Porto and the Aga Khan Foundation Portugal in Porto, June 6, 2023.
The Mayor of Porto, Rui Moreira, and Prince Amyn Aga Khan sign an agreement of cooperation between the Municipality of Porto and the Aga Khan Foundation Portugal in Porto, backdropped with the flags (left to right) of the Ismaili Imamat, the Portuguese Republic and the City of Porto. Photograph: Filipa Brito/www.porto.pt.

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News Prince Amyn Aga Khan Porto Portugal for signing of agreement between Aga Khan Foundation Portugal and City of Porto
Prince Amyn Aga Khan was in Porto, Portugal, for the signing of an agreement between the Aga Khan Foundation Portugal and the Municipality of Porto. He also attended the opening of the Schools2030 Global Forum, which took place in Portugal for the first time.

The Aga Khan Foundation Portugal’s program is focused on the sustained improvement of education from early childhood to secondary education. It is delivered by educational agents from ten countries (Afghanistan, Brazil, India, Pakistan, Portugal, Kenya, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Tanzania, and Uganda) and runs from 2020 to 2030.

Porto Mayor Rui Moreira and Portugal’s Minister of Education, João Miguel Marques da Costa, made insightful remarks on the Schools2020 program. They both spoke in English. The following YouTube video carries their remarks and includes clips from Prince Amyn’s signing of the AKFP agreementwith the Mayor of the Municipality of Porto.

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July 11, 2023: Prince Amyn Aga Khan, Prince Rahim and Prince Aly Muhammad Welcome the Portuguese Leadership to Celebrate Mawlana Hazar Imam’s 66th Imamat Day at the Seat of the Ismaili Imamat

Prince Aly Muhammad Aga Khan, Prince Amyn Aga Khan, President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, Prince Rahim Aga Khan, and Nazim Ahmad attend an Imamat Day reception hosted at the Diwan of the Ismaili Imamat in Lisbon on July 11, 2023.
(From left) Prince Aly Muhammad Aga Khan, Prince Amyn Aga Khan, President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, Prince Rahim Aga Khan, and Nazim Ahmad attend an Imamat Day reception hosted at the Diwan of the Ismaili Imamat in Lisbon on July 11, 2023. Photograph: The Ismaili/Akbar Hakim.

On June 3, 2015, a landmark agreement was reached between Mawlana Hazar Imam, His Highness the Aga Khan, and the Portuguese Government to establish the Seat of the Ismaili Imamat in the country. Palacete Mendonça in Lisbon, Portugal’s capital, was acquired and chosen as the site for the Seat. On July 11, 2018, on his 61st Imamat Day, bringing his historic Diamond Jubilee to a close in Lisbon, Mawlana Hazar officially designated the building as the “Diwan of the Ismaili Imamat”.

A view of the Diwan of the Ismaili Imamat in Lisbon, Portugal, showcasing its elegant architecture and surrounding gardens.
A view of the historic Henrique Mendonça Palace, which is the seat or diwan of the Ismaili Imamat. Photo: © Muslim Harji.

Five years later, on July 11, 2023, the 66th anniversary of Mawlana Hazar Imam’s Imamat, The Diwan of the Ismaili Imamat hosted a reception that was attended on his behalf by his younger brother Prince Amyn and two children Prince Rahim and Prince Aly Muhammad. They welcomed President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa and the country’s most senior leaders, including current and former Portuguese presidents, prime ministers, foreign ministers, and mayors, who were offered a first look at the restored site of the Palacete Mendonça in Portugal’s capital.

In his welcome address, Prince Amyn said:

“While this is not an opening of the Diwan, it is very special for us at last to be able to host you in this beautiful building and welcome you to the Seat of the Ismaili Imamat which has been designated by my brother, His Highness the Aga Khan, as the Diwan of the Ismaili Imamat.”

A group of four men seated, applauding at a podium where one man is speaking. The backdrop features Portuguese flags and decorative tiles.
President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa of Portugal, Prince Rahim Aga Khan, oldest son of His Highness the Aga Khan, and Nazim Ahmad, Diplomatic Representative of the Ismaili Imamat to Portugal applaud as Prince Amyn Aga Khan, younger brother of the Aga Khan, extends a warm welcome to guests during an Imamat Day reception hosted at the Diwan of the Ismaili Imamat in Lisbon on July 11, 2023. Photograph: The Ismaili/Akbar Hakim.

Prince Amyn remarked that Mawlana Hazar Imam and the Ismaili community will forever be grateful to the Portuguese leadership and the country for their kind acceptance and welcome, dating back to the 1970s. This generosity, he said, has enabled the community to successfully integrate into Portuguese society.

“In keeping with the ethics of Islam,” Prince Amyn explained, “wherever we reside we ensure we are active in civil society, working in many fields of endeavour to offer our time, knowledge, expertise, and material resources to help better the cohesiveness of the communities and societies in which we live.”

“And in so doing,” he added, “our purpose is to uphold human dignity, to help improve the lives of the vulnerable, and to support the pluralism that exists here in Portugal, and which is crucial to the maintenance of a peaceful, compassionate and harmonious society.”

In paying tribute to the Portuguese Ismailis, President Marcelo in his address said:

“The Ismaili community in Portugal has about 10,000 citizens, fully integrated and imbued with the values of courage, innovation, persistence, and an openness to the world. It is this spirit of communion that keeps us firm and united at all times, good and bad, without hesitation.”

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Video: Imamat Day Reception Hosted at Diwan of Imamat

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July 13, 2023: Prince Amyn Aga Khan and Members of Mawlana Hazar Imam’s Family Grace Event Celebrating the 25th Anniversary of the Ismaili Centre Lisbon

The Portuguese Order of Merit awarded to the Ismaili Centre, Lisbon by President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa
President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa awarded the Portuguese Order of Merit to the Ismaili Centre Lisbon at a special event held on July 13, 2023, to celebrate its 25th anniversary. Photograph: IPL/Luis Catarino.

Members of His Highness the Aga Khan’s family—his brother Prince Amyn and two sons, Prince Rahim and Prince Aly Muhammad—and Portugal’s President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa were in attendance at The Ismaili Centre Lisbon on July 13, 2023, as it marked its 25th anniversary celebrations. The Portuguese President surprised the audience at the eventby awarding the iconic building the Portuguese Order of Merit. Established in 1927, the Merit Award recognizes citizens or institutions for services that benefit Portuguese society. 

The Lisbon Ismaili Centre is the third in a network of six high-profile Centres in various parts of the world. It was inaugurated on July 11, 1998, by the then Portuguese President Jorge Sampaio in the presence of Mawlana Hazar Imam. The other five Ismaili Centres are in London (1985), Vancouver (1985), Dubai (2008), Dushanbe (2009), and Toronto (2014). The seventh Ismaili Centre is under construction in Houston, Texas.

Newly appointed President of His Highness the Aga Khan Shia Imami Ismaili Council for Portugal, Yasmin Bhudarally, welcomes President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa to the Ismaili Centre Lisbon on July 13, 2023 to celebrate its 25th anniversary. Looking on (from left to right) are His Highness the Aga Khan's younger brother Prince Amyn, and his two sons Prince Rahim and Prince Aly Muhammad.
Newly appointed President of His Highness the Aga Khan Shia Imami Ismaili Council for Portugal, Yasmin Bhudarally, welcomes President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa to the Ismaili Centre Lisbon on July 13, 2023 to celebrate its 25th anniversary. Looking on (from left to right) are His Highness the Aga Khan’s younger brother, Prince Amyn, and his two sons, Prince Rahim and Prince Aly Muhammad. Photograph: IPL/Akbar Hakim.

Ismaili Centre Centro Ismaili Lisboa 25th anniversary 1998-2023
A beautiful view of the Ismaili Centre Lisbon’s courtyard from the inside of the building as it marks the 25th anniversary with a special inscription. Photograph: Barakah.

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Newly appointed President of His Highness the Aga Khan Shia Imami Ismaili Council for Portugal, Yasmin Bhudarally; youngest son of the Aga Khan, Prince Aly Muhamad Aga Khan; Vice President of the Portuguese Parliament, Edite Estrela; younger brother of the Aga Khan, Prince Amyn Aga Khan; Portugal's President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa; oldest son of the Aga Khan, Prince Rahim Aga Khan; and Nazim Ahmad, Diplomatic Representative of the Ismaili Imamat to Portugal.
Left to right: Newly appointed President of His Highness the Aga Khan Shia Imami Ismaili Council for Portugal, Yasmin Bhudarally; youngest son of the Aga Khan, Prince Aly Muhamad Aga Khan; Vice President of the Portuguese Parliament, Edite Estrela; younger brother of the Aga Khan, Prince Amyn Aga Khan; Portugal’s President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa; oldest son of the Aga Khan, Prince Rahim Aga Khan; and Nazim Ahmad, Diplomatic Representative of the Ismaili Imamat to Portugal. Photograph: IPL/Akbar Hakim.

In his address, President Marcelo praised the Ismaili community’s presence and commitment to the country and noted the Ismaili Centre’s vital role as a meeting point of cultures, faiths, and beliefs.

“Here in this Centre,” he said, “the Ismaili community has worked for Portuguese society in education, science, technology, taking care of children, and of the older generations — helping almost everywhere. You made a difference with a very hard-working and open-minded community. A community that accepted and helped to build inclusion.”

President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa awards the Portuguese Order of Merit to the Ismaili Centre Lisbon, accepted by Prince Amyn, Aga Khan
Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa awards the Portuguese Order of Merit to the Ismaili Centre Lisbon, accepted by Prince Amyn, at the special event at the Centre on July 13, 2023, to mark its 25th anniversary. Photograph: IPL/ Akbar Hakim.

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Aga Khan Master Musicians perform in Paris, Barakah news.
Aga Khan Master Musicians’ performance on August 18, 2023, in Paris, France, evoked the sights and sounds of the historic Silk Road through a mesmerizing selection of compositions. Photograph: AKDN/Thomas Wibaux.
Prince Amyn Aga Khan delivers remarks at a post-concert reception at L'Institut du Monde Arabe in Paris, France, on October 18, 2023.
Prince Amyn Aga Khan delivers remarks at a post-concert reception at L’Institut du Monde Arabe in Paris, France, on October 18, 2023. Photograph: AKDN/Thomas Wibaux.

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Prince Amyn Aga Khan and Houston Mayor Turner at Topping Out Ceremony of Ismalil Cemter Hpuston
Prince Amyn Aga Khan and Mayor Turner sign the final beam that will complete the superstructure of the Ismaili Center Houston during the topping out ceremony on October 23, 2023, as President Al-Karim Alidina of the Aga Khan Council for the USA looks on. Photograph: The Ismaili/Akbar Hakim.
Ismaili Center Houston Topping Out Ceremony and Honour by Houston Mayor to the Aga Khan with Key of City, Barakah.
Prince Amyn Aga Khan accepts the Key to the City of Houston on behalf of his brother His Highness the Aga Khan from Mayor Sylvester Turner as members of the City Council look on during Prince Amyn’s visit for the topping out ceremony of the Ismaili Center Houston on October 23, 2023. Photograph: The Ismaili/Akbar Hakim.
Ismaili Center Houston Topping Out Ceremony Aga Khan and Houston Mayor Turner
Prince Amyn Aga Khan and Mayor Sylvester Turner planted a Texas Red Oak tree together on October 23, 2023,to commemorate the topping out ceremony of the Ismaili Center Houston. Photograph: The Ismaili/Akbar Hakim HAKIM

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Castelo Branco’s Mayor bestows upon Prince Amyn Aga Khan the city’s gold medal. The gold medal is the city’s highest distinction and has been awarded to distinguished recipients since 1985. Photograph: AKDN.
Leopoldo Martins Rodrigues, Castelo Branco’s Mayor, bestows upon Prince Amyn Aga Khan the city’s gold medal on May 10, 2024. The gold medal is the city’s highest distinction and has been awarded to distinguished recipients since 1985. Photograph: AKDN.

Sintra's Mayor Basílio Horta awards the Sintra's Municipal Merit Medal to Prince Amyn Aga Khan.
Mayor Basílio Horta awards Sintra’s Municipal Merit Medal to Prince Amyn Aga Khan during the Municipality Day celebrations hosted by Sintra City Council. The medal was awarded in recognition of the Aga Khan Foundation’s many years of work in enhancing the quality of life in the local area. Photograph: Jose Carlos Nero/AKDN.

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Prince Amyn Aga Khan and the Honorable Mayor of Houston John Whitmire at the Mayor's office.
Prince Amyn Aga Khan and the Honorable Mayor of Houston John Whitmire at the Mayor’s office. Photograph: IPL/Akbar Hakim.

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The Ismaili Center in Houston, well under construction in Houston, Texas, against Houston's skyline, Barakah news, Aga Khan
The Ismaili Center in Houston, Texas, is well under construction against Houston’s skyline. The Ismaili Cente will be a space for reflection, inspiration, and knowledge. Photograph: IPL/Mairaj Hakim.

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Prince Amyn Aga Khan in conversation with lead design architect Farshid Moussavi and landscape architect Thomas Woltz, Barakah News
Prince Amyn Aga Khan in conversation with lead design architect Farshid Moussavi and landscape architect Thomas Woltz as members of the construction’s Oversight Committee look on. Photograph: IPL/Akbar Hakim.

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Aga Khan Imamat Day celebration at the Diwan in Lisbon
Princess Fareen Aga Khan, Prince Hussain and Prince Amyn welcome guests to the Diwan of the Ismaili Imamat to commemorate the 67th Imamat Day of Mawlana Hazar Imam, His Highness the Aga Khan; July 4, 2024. Photograph: AKDN.
Ismaili Imamat Aga Khan 67th anniversary
Dr Margarida Blasco, Portugal’s Minister of Interior Affairs, 5th from left, and Mawlana Hazar Imam His Highness the Aga Khan’s family members Prince Amyn, Prince Hussain and Princess Fareen, observe the Nashid al-Imamah at the Imamat Day reception at the Diwan of the Ismaili Imam; July 4, 2024. Photograph: AKDN.

Date posted: September 11, 2024.

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6 comments

  1. A Very Happy Birthday to Prince Amyn Saheb.

    Praying for your Good Health. Prince Saheb thank you for devoting so much of your time in the uplifliment of the Jamat and the Ummah at large on behalf of our Beloved Mawlana Hazar Imam. Also so much sacrifice. We salute you. Prince Saheb you are always on the gogo.

    Also Praying for Long Healthy Life And your Birthday goes along with 10 Years of Celebration of the Toronto Ismaili Centre and AgaKhan Museum.

    Like

  2. Ya Ali Madad

    Beautiful enjoyed reading the article. We just came back from Toronto after visiting the Ismaili Centre and the Aga Khan Museum. We attended the evening prayers also. What an experience we had; it was a lifetime remembrance. Shukher Alhamdollilah. 🙏🙏

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  3. Happy birthday to you our beloved Prince Amyn. Praying for your good health, happiness and a healthy long life.

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