The South Asian Studies Unit (SASU) at The Institute of Ismaili Studies (IIS) in collaboration with Aga Khan Foundation UK (AKF), Serendip Productions, and Pakistan’s Rural Support Programmes Network (RSPN), hosted the UK premiere of A Drop That Made the Ocean on 11 September 2025 at the Aga Khan Centre. The event highlighted the life and work of Dr Shoaib Sultan Khan, a leading figure in community-driven rural development in South Asia.
Screening of a two-decade biographical film
Dr Shoaib Sultan Khan is internationally recognised for establishing and advancing models of social mobilisation across South Asia. His leadership of the Aga Khan Rural Support Programme from 1982 onwards, and his support for similar initiatives across the region, have transformed the lives of millions. His work has been acknowledged through national and international honours, including the UNEP Global 500 Award, the Hilal-e-Imtiaz and the Nishan-e-Imtiaz, both awarded by the Government of Pakistan, as well as his nomination for the Nobel Peace Prize.
Hussain Jasani, Head of South Asian Studies at IIS, welcomed the guests and opened the event with remarks on behalf of Professor Zayn Kassam, Director of IIS. The message emphasised Dr Khan’s sustained contribution to development and his commitment to human dignity. The evening centred on the screening of A Drop That Made the Ocean, directed by Huma Beg and Dr Farooq Beg. Filmed over nearly twenty years, the documentary follows Dr Khan’s professional journey, charting the evolution of his development practice and its impact across rural Pakistan and beyond. The film draws on archival material and extensive field footage to document his work in remote regions and presents a detailed record of his approach to community engagement.
Reflections from diplomatic and development leaders
His Excellency Dr Mohammad Faisal, High Commissioner of Pakistan to the United Kingdom, addressed the audience and commended Dr Khan’s leadership and long-standing public service. Following the screening, a panel discussion brought together Dr Farooq Beg, Shandana Khan (CEO, RSPN), and Dr Rashid Bajwa (CEO, National Rural Support Programme). They were joined by Matt Reed, CEO of the Aga Khan Foundation UK, and Hussain Jasani. The panellists discussed the development model pioneered by Dr Khan, its relevance today, and the key insights documented during the film’s extended production period.
The panel reiterated that Dr Khan’s model is grounded in democratic village institutions, community ownership, and the principle that lasting change emerges from within communities themselves. Representatives of RSPN noted that these principles continue to inform national development work in Pakistan, including programmes in health, education, climate resilience, and humanitarian response.
Dr Shoaib Sultan Khan also addressed the gathering. He reflected on his early engagement with His Late Highness Prince Karim, Aga Khan IV, who provided direct support for the establishment of the Aga Khan Rural Support Programme. Dr Khan described how community-led development became the central focus of his professional life.
The event was attended by senior representatives from partner organisations and the development sector, including Jamil Uddin (CEO, Aga Khan Rural Support Programme), His Excellency Moazzam Ahmad Khan (former High Commissioner of Pakistan to the UK), Honourable Ali Nawaz Malik (Minister for Press, the High Commission of Pakistan in London), and Mr Ziauddin Yousafzai, who spoke in appreciation of the contributions of Dr Khan. Matt Reed and Hussain Jasani concluded the evening with a vote of thanks, acknowledging the filmmakers, panellists, and partner institutions for their collaboration.
