Al-Khair Foundation (AKF) has hailed the success of a major conference on international development and humanitarian aid.

The Foundation was the main sponsor of the BOND 2018 conference in London which attracted more than 1,000 professionals and key members of charitable and agency sector over the two-day session.

The conference, held at the QEII Centre, Westminster, welcomed government representatives, leading figures and influential thinkers together for a series of stimulating and inspiring sessions.

International Development Secretary Penny Mordaunt and girls’ rights advocate Memory Banda were keynote speakers in a dynamic programme that provided insights and tackled the challenges facing global projects and aid.

“We are delighted to have been the main sponsor of this important conference. The aims and ambitions of the Bond Conference are in keeping with Al-Khair’s mission to provide help and support those who need it the most,” said Imam Qasim Rashid Ahmad, Chairman and Founder of AKF.

“This was an excellent forum for some of the leading minds and practitioners to debate current issues and provide great leadership as we continue our quest and encourage greater collaboration.”

Delegates, from large scale charities, NGOs and smaller projects, attended a range of sessions and workshops that gave practical advice on fund-raising, partnerships, operations and leadership as well as discussing political and environmental factors.

The conference was Europe’s biggest international development event and it featured an exhibition section with stalls run by AKF, the Charity Commission, the International Human Appeal, Action Against Hunger, the RNLI and range of agencies and consultants.

“It was great to have the opportunity to showcase AKF’s work and explore the possibility of relationships with other charities, donors and consultants,” added Imam Qasim. “The delegates found useful advice and came away re-energised.”