The remarkable journey of Jahid Ahmed, Britain’s first British Bangladeshi professional cricketer.
Few people have broken barriers in British Bangladeshi sport quite like Jahid Ahmed. As Britain’s first British Bangladeshi professional cricketer, his journey from a small cricket club in Essex to the professional ranks of county cricket is a story of determination, family values and community spirit.
Today, alongside his continued work in cricket and youth development, Jahid is also an investor in Futuredesh, supporting a model that combines financial returns with positive social impact across rural Bangladesh.
We sat down with Jahid to discuss his roots, career, proudest moments and why he believes in the Futuredesh vision.
Family, Heritage and Hard Work
Jahid’s family roots trace back to Sylhet, Bangladesh, where his father, Sheikh Faruque Ahmed, founded the iconic Hotel Polash.
Although born in the UK, Jahid spent eight years of his childhood living in Bangladesh after his family returned there during the 1990s. Looking back, he considers himself fortunate to have experienced both cultures.
“My father and uncles worked incredibly hard. They came to England, worked in restaurants and eventually built successful businesses of their own. Later they returned to Bangladesh and established Hotel Polash, which became a great success.”
The biggest lesson he learned was the importance of family unity.
“Watching my parents, my father and my uncles work together had a huge influence on me. They supported each other through everything. Seeing that teamwork and commitment from a young age shaped who I am today.”
If Not Cricket?
While cricket eventually became his profession, Jahid admits it was not always part of a master plan.
“If cricket hadn’t found me, I think I would have become a police officer.”
His reason is simple.
“I’ve always enjoyed helping people and giving something back to the community. That’s always been part of my personality. Policing would have allowed me to serve others and make a positive difference.”
In many ways, that desire to support people remains central to the work he does today.
Becoming Britain’s First British Bangladeshi Professional Cricketer
Jahid’s cricket journey began in Burnham-on-Crouch, Essex, where the local cricket club sat just around the corner from his family home.
Inspired by his older brother, he spent countless hours practicing with family and friends.
“My brother loved cricket and had a massive influence on me. I followed him everywhere. We spent so much time at the local club, and that’s really where my cricket journey began.”
His progress was rapid.
At just sixteen, he earned a trial with Essex Under-17s and successfully secured a place in the squad. Within a year he had signed an academy contract, followed shortly afterwards by a professional contract.
From 2004 to 2009, Jahid represented Essex County Cricket Club as a professional cricketer, becoming Britain’s first British Bangladeshi player to reach that level.
“It was a dream come true. Every young cricketer dreams of playing professionally.”
Career Highlights
When asked about the proudest moments of his career, Jahid points to several unforgettable experiences.
One came in 2008 when he was invited to train with the England national team during a Test Match against South Africa at The Oval.
“Walking into that environment and seeing some of the biggest names in world cricket was surreal. I had the opportunity to work alongside the England squad and be involved as twelfth man. It was an incredible experience.”
Another highlight came when he faced the legendary Australian side of the 2005 Ashes era.
“To go from playing club cricket at my local club to playing against one of the greatest cricket teams ever assembled was unbelievable.”
For Jahid, however, simply becoming a professional cricketer remains the achievement he is most proud of.
“Playing professionally and travelling the world through cricket is something I’ll always be grateful for.”
Life After Professional Cricket
After leaving Essex in 2009, Jahid moved into coaching and community development.
A role in Tower Hamlets introduced him to youth cricket programmes, and today he works as an Operations Manager within the charitable sector, using sport to create opportunities for young people.
“Cricket gave me so much, and now I enjoy helping others through the game.”
Why Futuredesh?
For more than a year, Jahid has also been part of the Futuredesh investor community.
Introduced by a friend, he was immediately attracted to the concept.
“What really attracted me was that the money being invested is doing something positive. The farmers benefit, I benefit from my investment, and Futuredesh benefits too. Everyone wins.”
For Jahid, the social impact is just as important as the financial return.
“We are fortunate in many ways, but this allows us to support farmers while also creating opportunities for ourselves. That’s what appealed to me most.”
He also praises the transparency and technology behind the platform.
“The app is excellent. I invested in poultry and was able to see updates, pictures and videos from the farm. Being able to follow what’s happening with your investment gives you real confidence.”
After achieving strong returns from his first year, Jahid has already chosen to reinvest.
“Alhamdulillah, I’ve been very pleased with the returns and the overall experience. That’s why I’ve decided to continue and invest again. Insha’Allah, I’m hoping to stay involved for many years.”
Perhaps most importantly, he highlights the support he has received from the team.
“Whenever I’ve had a question, someone has always been available to help. The communication has been excellent and that’s given me a lot of confidence.”
Looking Ahead
As one of the pioneers who broke barriers for British Bangladeshis in professional cricket, Jahid Ahmed understands the value of opportunity.
Whether through sport, community work or ethical investment, his focus remains the same: creating positive impact while helping others succeed.
“If you can do well yourself while helping other people improve their lives, that’s a powerful thing. That’s what attracted me to Futuredesh, and that’s what excites me about the future.”
