With a professional portfolio that spans consultancy, education, engineering, IT, and strategic leadership, Dr. Anwar brings a rare multidimensional expertise to the global stage. She is the visionary behind Trade Not Riba (www.tradenotriba.com), a groundbreaking initiative that advocates Islamic Social Entrepreneurship as a viable, ethical alternative to interest-based economic systems. Her doctorate research produced pioneering models that are redefining sustainability, community empowerment, and social justice—resonating with both Muslim and non-Muslim communities worldwide.

Dr. Anwar’s work has had global impact across corporate, governmental, nonprofit, and academic sectors. She consults internationally on ethical finance, sustainable development, and Islamic economic principles—driving innovation in Waqf revitalization, Halal entrepreneurship, and interest-free finance. Her influence extends to boardrooms and institutions across the Middle East, USA, Europe, Asia, and Australia.
A sought-after keynote speaker, Dr. Anwar presents at global conferences on themes including:

• Halal Matters: Advocating for integrity, compliance, and innovation in global halal trade and ethical industry standards.
• Waqf (Islamic Endowment): Innovating traditional endowment models for modern use.
• Islamic Social Entrepreneurship: Designing ethical and sustainable enterprises rooted in Islamic values.
• Halal Entrepreneurship: Bridging innovation and Sharia-compliant business practices.
• Islamic Finance: Promoting interest-free, community-benefiting financial systems.

Academic Excellence & Multidisciplinary Expertise

Dr. Anwar holds a PhD from the University of KwaZulu-Natal (South Africa), a Master’s in Islamic Finance and CIFP accreditation from INCEIF (Malaysia), and an MBA from Cranfield University (UK), specializing in Strategy and Entrepreneurship. She also holds a Bachelor’s in Engineering from Queen Mary, University of London, and a specialization in Satellite Communications from the University of Bradford.
Her qualifications extend into pedagogy with a Postgraduate Diploma in Teaching from the University of Auckland (NZ), equipping her with the tools to design and deliver impactful education programs in Islamic economics and entrepreneurship.

Governance & Global Influence

Dr. Anwar sits on the boards of several global organizations. She currently serves as a working board member of Mutual Aid Networks (MANs) in Madison, USA, where her Islamic Social Entrepreneurship model is being implemented into a cooperative, regenerative economy—showcasing the universal value of waqf and Islamic Social Entrepreneurship across diverse cultural and religious contexts.

Author & Thought Leadership

A recognized scholar-practitioner, Dr. Anwar is the author of:

• Waqf (Endowment): A Vehicle for Islamic Social Entrepreneurship (IBFIM, 2017) and
• co-author of Financing the Development of Old WAQF Properties (Palgrave Macmillan, USA).

🚀 Coming Soon: Dr. Anwar’s groundbreaking new book, Think Like an Islamic Social Entrepreneur: A Mindset Shift — your essential guide to building purpose-driven, Sharia-compliant enterprises that create real social impact.

Her forthcoming book, Think Like an Islamic Social Entrepreneur: A Mindset Shift, is a groundbreaking and practical guide designed for aspiring Islamic Social Entrepreneurs and established Entrepreneurs. Unlike conventional business resources, this book uniquely blends theoretical insights with actionable strategies rooted in Islamic values.

It offers a dual-purpose approach: first, by outlining the essential characteristics, mindset, and ethical framework required to become a successful Islamic Social Entrepreneur; and second, by serving as a comprehensive workbook that guides readers through the process of planning, launching, and managing a socially impactful and financially sustainable Islamic Social Enterprise.

Drawing upon Dr. Anwar’s research and field experience, the book empowers readers to develop mission-driven ventures that prioritize community well-being, sustainability, and social justice—while maintaining Sharia-compliant financial integrity. It is a vital tool for those seeking to align Islamic Social purpose with practice, and business with barakah (blessing).

To learn more or connect with Dr. Anwar’s work, visit: www.tradenotriba.com