“If I had to sum it up, City wasn’t just a place of learning for me. It was where I connected my purpose with my profession, setting the foundation for everything I do now.”

Mohammad Taqi Yasir is a development practitioner, lawyer, lecturer and entrepreneur. As co-founder of Footsteps Bangladesh, he has led efforts to create sustainable social impact in the country, focusing on clean water, education and healthcare.

“Over the years we have built initiatives that directly impact communities while shifting how people think about development – placing an emphasis on local empowerment and long-term resilience.”

Mohammad co-founded Footsteps with friend Shah Rafayat Chowdhury, while both were still teenagers. Today, the organisation works across 40 districts in Bangladesh on projects that impact over 700,000 people and collaborates with global partners.

“Footsteps was born out of a drive to create sustainable, community-driven solutions rather than temporary fixes. Instead of charity, we focused on empowerment, ensuring that the people we support can take ownership of their progress. Whether it’s equipping disaster responders with clean water technology or transforming small rural pharmacies into digital health centers, our approach has always been about long-term impact.”

Mohammed says his time at City St George’s and in London had a profound effect on him.

“Academically, it gave me a strong foundation in law, sharpening my analytical thinking and deepening my understanding of justice, governance, and international affairs. But beyond the classroom, it was the experience of living in London that truly shaped me.

“London is a city that constantly challenges you. It pushes you to think globally, act independently, and embrace diversity in all its forms. The people I met, the conversations I had, and even the everyday experiences of navigating such a fast-paced environment broadened my perspective. It taught me resilience, adaptability, and the value of being part of a multicultural, dynamic world.”

“City offers more than just a degree. It is a place that encourages you to think critically and prepare for the real world. It gave me the tools to think beyond traditional roles and integrate my skills across different fields, from social entrepreneurship to policy advocacy.”

Alongside his work at Footsteps, Mohammad holds several other roles. He is the Managing Director of Planet X, which focuses on innovative and impactful tech projects. He is also a Senior Associate at Stellar Chambers, and lectures at London College of Legal Studies (South), teaching and mentoring students in law.

“What excites me about the future is the opportunity to create meaningful, lasting impact across different fields. Whether it’s through Footsteps Bangladesh, my work in law, or leading projects at Planet X, I see so much potential to drive change in ways that truly matter. I’m particularly excited about the role of young leaders in shaping global solutions.

“We are in an era where social impact, technology, and policy are becoming more interconnected, and I want to be at the forefront of that – bridging gaps, challenging norms, and building initiatives that empower communities.”