Ram Gidoomal was born into an Indian family of silk traders, displaced as a result of the turmoil and violence at the time of the independence of India and Pakistan.
However, the family rebuilt their fortunes in Kenya, so that Ram enjoyed an idyllic childhood in Mombasa.
As he turned 17, his family endured a devastating second deportation, to London.
Starting again from scratch, Ram built a successful career in business, and was firmly on the road to prosperity and fortune, when a life-changing journey led him to instead dedicate his business skills and profits to those who need them most.
His contributions to the community were recognised by the Queen in 1998, by the award to him of the title “CBE”.
As an experienced businessman and entrepreneur, Ram Gidoomal has worked for over 30 years in the private, public, and voluntary sectors, as Chief Executive, Audit and Risk Assurance Committee Chair, Nominations Committee Chair, Remuneration Committee Chair, and Chair of the Board.
Among the numerous recognitions for his many contributions, including Honorary Doctorates from three UK universities, the most recent has been his inclusion in Highflyers 50 – the fifty most eminent people of Indian origin living and working outside India.
He is the author of seven earlier books, including Sari n Chips (exploring cross-cultural issues and challenges faced by new migrants), How Would Jesus Vote (on politics), and The UK Maharajahs and The British and How to Work With Them (business).
His latest book, My Silk Road: The adventures and struggles of a British Asian refugee, is his memoir, which brings together his experiences in international business, national politics, Indian and fusion music, and social entrepreneurship, as well as family, friendship and business relationships across time and distance – “From the moment you start reading it to its conclusion, you cannot put down.”
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Here is some further information on him:
https://www.womanalive.co.uk/a-romeo-and-juliet-love-story/6107.article
https://www.theguardian.com/society/2004/jun/10/londonpolitics.elections2004
https://www.philanthropy-impact.org/inspiration/personal-stories/ram-gidoomal