Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru
Mangaluru, Oct 30: The government of Karnataka’s department of Kannada and culture has announced the Karnataka Rajyotsava Awards for 2025–26, naming Zakaria Jokatte, founder of Al Muzain Company in Jubail, Saudi Arabia, and president of Mangaluru-based M Friends Charitable Trust, as the recipient in the Non-resident Kannadiga category.
Born on May 10, 1958, at Thokur in Jokatte, Zakaria is the eldest of five children of Haji B Shekuni and Katheejamma of Bajpeguttu. His journey from humble beginnings to international recognition is one of perseverance and determination. After discontinuing his schooling, he undertook various odd jobs — selling jaggery on streets, working as a welder, and even as a labourer carrying cement up to the 28th floor at construction sites abroad.
His years of hard work and sacrifice bore fruit when, in 2008, along with his eldest son Zaheer, he established Al Muzain Manpower Company in Jubail, Saudi Arabia, starting with just three employees. Through dedication and leadership, the company has now grown to employ 8,000 workers, with a goal of creating 10,000 jobs by 2027.
Following the success of Al Muzain, Zakaria expanded his entrepreneurial ventures, founding several other companies in Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, the UAE, Oman, Qatar, Kuwait, London, and India. He has also forayed into education by establishing an international institution in Al Khobar in collaboration with Yenepoya Group, and plans to set up a hospital and medical college in the near future. His upcoming projects include AI innovation initiatives and development ventures for the coastal region of Karnataka.
Currently residing in Bolar, Mangaluru, Zakaria lives with his wife Hazra Zakaria. His three sons — Zaheer, Nazir, and Zahid — are engaged in various business ventures abroad.
Zakaria serves as the chairman of M Friends Charitable Trust, Hidaya Foundation, and Zara Family Charity Trust. He is also associated as director, advisor, and sponsor with several organisations across Karnataka, working tirelessly for the welfare of thousands of underprivileged and needy individuals.
In recognition of his philanthropic contributions and entrepreneurial achievements, Zakaria Jokatte has received numerous national and international honours. His selection for the Karnataka Rajyotsava Award stands as a testament to his service, dedication, and pride as a global Kannadiga.