LAHORE - Prof Afzal Javed, a renowned consultant psychiatrist and former President of the World Psychiatric Association (2020–2023), has been awarded an OBE by King Charles III. The investiture ceremony took place at Windsor Castle on June 2, 2026, in recognition of his outstanding services to mental health.
International Contributions
Prof Afzal Javed is widely recognized for his leadership as President of the World Psychiatric Association from 2020 to 2023. During his tenure, he visited over 70 countries to advocate for and promote mental health, with a particular focus on supporting initiatives in developing nations. His efforts have included capacity building, professional training, policy advocacy, and establishing sustainable mental health services in resource-limited regions.
Charity Work in the UK and Beyond
He has played a pivotal role in several UK-based charities, including serving as Chairman of the Richmond Fellowship Foundation International, which works across Commonwealth countries to establish rehabilitation facilities for people with mental illness. He is also a Founding Trustee of Akhuwat UK, an organization that supports poverty alleviation programs in low-income countries, and a contributor to CAREIF (The Centre for Applied Research and Evaluation – International Foundation).
Previous Honors
In 2023, Prof Afzal Javed was honored with the Sitara-i-Imtiaz by the Government of Pakistan for his national, regional, and international contributions to mental health advancement. His younger brother, Dr Amjad Saqib, Chairman of Akhuwat and a well-known social worker in Pakistan, was awarded the Hilal-i-Imtiaz by the Government of Pakistan in 2024.
