Khaled M Shahriar is an esteemed entrepreneur, the founder of several technology start-ups, and the co-founder and Executive Director of the UHCD Foundation. Driven by his ability to generate and implement innovative ideas expeditiously, he devotes to exemplify entrepreneurial excellence in every venture and now relentlessly working on disability empowerment and building a bridge to inclusivity.
Khaled's professional experience spans a wide range of mechatronics, technology, engineering and manufacturing fields, including industrial automation, product innovation, development of robots, injection molding, and software development. His technical prowess is demonstrated by several US patents. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he invented a state-of-the-art servo-controlled ventilator under the direct instruction of then NYS Governor Andrew Cuomo. His invaluable ideas on product design and innovation have helped many individuals and businesses bring their concepts into physical existence through thorough engineering.
With postgraduate academia in Geology from University of Dhaka and Computer Science from the City College of New York, Khaled combines interdisciplinary learning with technological advancement. His academic journey, supported by publications and innovations, showcases his commitment to continuous learning and progress.
At UHCD, Khaled brainchild the UHCD Connect software, a revolutionary custom development that connects children with disabilities to global resources and enhances their opportunities. His remarkable skill in turning visualization into reality is a cornerstone of his innovative work. His leadership and problem-solving skills drive the success of UHCD's initiatives, empowering children with disabilities and their families.
Beyond his technical and scientific expertise, Khaled is a visionary leader who believes in the transformative power of education and advocacy. He collaborates with communities, educational institutions, and policymakers to raise public awareness about disabilities and promote inclusivity. His efforts have led to significant partnerships, such as with Bangladesh Open University (BOU), to develop specialized educational programs for individuals with disabilities.
Khaled is a devoted father to a son with cerebral palsy, and he deeply values the experience and knowledge he has gained, which he passionately shares with new parents through UHCD. His family is the heart of his life. He finds immense joy in being surrounded by his esteemed parents, who he looks up to as true mentors, his unwaveringly supportive sister, his loving wife, who is his life partner in every sense, and his two precious children, who are his greatest source of inspiration. Khaled's love for his family extends into every aspect of his life. In his free time, he loves to dive into DIY projects, always eager to tackle new challenges with enthusiasm and skill. His warmth and dedication to his loved ones shine through in everything he does, whether he is cooking in his free time or tackling DIY projects at home. He is blessed to be part of a unique family filled with love and support.
Khaled M Shahriar's journey is a testament to his dedication to fostering an inclusive society. His pioneering work continues to inspire and impact countless lives, embodying the essence of innovation, empathy, and empowerment. As an entrepreneur, Khaled remains committed to harnessing his scientific expertise and technical skills to drive positive change and create a legacy.
Dr. Mahmuda Sawgat is a dedicated physician whose heart is deeply connected to children, always willing to support humanity through treatment and care. She is a staunch advocate for disability rights and empowerment. Holding an MBBS degree from Bangladesh, she further advanced her medical credentials by obtaining a US degree in Sonography. Driven by a profound commitment to helping those in need, especially disadvantaged children with disabilities, Mahmuda co-founded the UHCD Foundation alongside her partner, Khaled M Shahriar.
As the Director of Advocacy at UHCD Foundation, Dr. Sawgat plays a pivotal role in shaping the organization's mission to connect children with disabilities to vital resources worldwide. Her medical expertise and compassionate approach ensure that UHCD's programs are both impactful and sensitive to the unique needs of each child and family they serve.
Mahmuda's work extends beyond her medical practice; she is deeply involved in community engagement, education, and raising public awareness about disabilities. Her efforts have significantly contributed to the development of UHCD's inclusive education initiatives and the establishment of strategic partnerships with institutions like Bangladesh Open University.
As a true mother of a son with cerebral palsy, Mahmuda is personally driven by his statement of willingness to help people in need, which fuels her dream for UHCD. Her love for all children, as a mother, inspires her tireless advocacy for a more inclusive and supportive society. Dr. Mahmuda Sawgat's career is dedicated to making a tangible difference in the lives of children with disabilities.
Ferdousi Rahman is an outstanding pediatric occupational therapist with over 23 years of combined experience in providing specialized care to children with developmental delays and disabilities. Holding a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy and a Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Science, Ferdousi has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to enhancing the lives of her young patients.
Her professional journey includes significant roles within the New York State Early Intervention Program and the NYC Department of Education. Ferdousi has been instrumental in promoting the function and engagement of infants and toddlers with developmental delays, addressing critical areas such as motor skills, social interaction, sensory processing, play, and cognitive abilities. Her approach is centered around creating supportive environments for children, their parents, and caregivers to ensure holistic development and success.
In her tenure with the NYC Department of Education, Ferdousi worked with children in elementary and junior high schools, focusing on a comprehensive range of skills from academics to self-care. She has extensive experience addressing the physical, cognitive, psychosocial, and sensory components of performance, helping children with various disabilities including autism, ADHD, Down syndrome, and cerebral palsy.
Her fieldwork includes notable experiences at New York Weill Cornell Medical Center and the Adult Day Program in Bronx, NY, where she provided rehabilitation services for adults and seniors with a variety of conditions. This breadth of experience underscores her versatility and expertise in occupational therapy across different age groups and settings.
Licensed by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT), Ferdousi continually enhances her skills through a wide array of certifications and continuing education courses, ensuring she remains at the forefront of her field.
Fluent in English, Bengali, Urdu, and Hindi, Ferdousi brings a multicultural perspective to her practice. Her personal interests in traveling, gardening, reading, and playing with children reflect her vibrant and nurturing personality.
Ferdousi Rahman is dedicated to making a lasting impact in the field of pediatric occupational therapy, driven by her passion for helping children achieve their fullest potential and supporting families in their journey towards improved health and well-being.
Munir has over 20 years of Management consulting and executive management experience. As a seasoned CxO level advisor, his list of clients include Citi Group, Morgan Stanley, Deutsche Bank, Credit Suisse, Wells Fargo, Societe Generale, RBC, EY, KPMG, BearingPoint etc. His areas of expertise include Treasury/Finance Risk and Regulatory reporting for major Financial Institutions for their mergers, acquisitions, divestitures, restatements, revenue recognition and other complex transactions.
Munir holds MBA and MS in Accounting from Northeastern University, Boston, MA. He had started his professional career as a Lecturer of Department of Accounting of University of Dhaka, Bangladesh after securing outstanding academic ranking in Master of Commerce (M.Com) and in Bachelor of Commerce (Honors).
Munir is a well travelled person who calls Long Island, NY his home.
Lori Vallejo is an accomplished educational leader with over 37 years of combined experience in early childhood education and special education. She holds a Master of Science in Education from Hofstra University and a School Building Leader (SBL) Certification from the College of Saint Rose. Additionally, she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Art Education/Synaesthetic Education from Syracuse University. Lori currently serves as the Chairman of the Advisory Board for the UHCD Foundation, where she guides its mission to connect children with disabilities to vital resources and support worldwide.
With over 37 years in the field, Lori has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to improving educational outcomes for young children, particularly those with special needs. Her professional journey includes key leadership roles at various educational institutions, where she has consistently applied her expertise to foster inclusive and effective learning environments.
Since April 2013, Lori has served as the Principal at Birch Mill Basin Early Childhood Center in Brooklyn, NY. In this role, she oversees and supervises program staff, ensuring the curriculum and procedures align with New York State Pre-School learning standards. Lori collaborates with department heads to address cognitive, social/emotional, motor, and communication skills, providing comprehensive support to students and their families.
From July 2008 to the present, Lori has also been the Educational Director and Principal at Parsons Preschool in Jamaica, NY. Here, she has implemented new school curricula and procedures, supervised behavior modification programs, established performance standards for teachers and assistants, and managed all annual reviews and CPSE/CSE meetings. Her work has significantly contributed to the school's success in meeting the diverse needs of its students.
Lori's expertise extends to higher education, where she has been an Adjunct Professor at Touro College since January 2009. She has developed and taught courses in Special Education, Early Childhood Special Education, Behavior, and Literacy for undergraduate students, sharing her knowledge and experience with future educators.
Her earlier roles include serving as an ABA Lead Teacher/Supervisor at TheraCare, supervising home-based Applied Behavior Analysis programs, and working as a Special Educator at Queens Occupational Training Center, where she developed and implemented various educational programs for students with special needs.
In addition to her professional responsibilities, Lori has been actively involved in community and international initiatives. She has worked as an Autism Consultant for the Pan American Health Organization in Lima, Peru, and various local organizations. Her contributions have been recognized with grants from the Board of Education, New York City, and Child Care Inc.
Lori Vallejo's dedication to education and her unwavering commitment to supporting children with special needs make her a distinguished leader in her field. Her work continues to inspire and positively impact the lives of students, families, and educators.
