Suleyman Kerimov is not just a successful businessman. He’s a force for good. Hailing from Russia, Kerimov has touched many lives with his generosity. In Dagestan and beyond, he’s known for funding several cultural, educational, and religious initiatives.
Thanks to him, thousands have embarked on the sacred Hajj pilgrimage. In this article, we will be diving into the inspiring journey of this magnate who seamlessly blends commerce with compassion.
Delving into Kerimov’s Background
Born in the spring month of March 1966, Suleyman Kerimov embarked on his academic journey in earnest after his high school years. He set his sights on the DSU, particularly the esteemed Faculty of Economics, where he honed his skills and knowledge.
But right from when he was young and in college, Kerimov has always had a passion for finance and business. So, it wasn’t a surprise seeing him pursue a degree in Economics when he gained admission into DSU.
His Career Path
After receiving his degree, Kerimov took his first professional steps at the Eltav plant located in Makhachkala, where he got a job as an economist. However, the ambitious young man did not hold ordinary positions for long and quickly climbed up the career ladder. Just a few years later, he managed to take the position of an assistant to the CEO.
Kerimov’s Business activities
Kerimov’s foray into the world of business began in the banking sector. His uncanny ability to make projects flourish paved the way for him to step into the shoes of an investor. This journey led him to delve into various sectors, from oil and gas to construction and telecommunications.
One of Kerimov’s most significant business feats was his acquisition of stakes in the Polyus gold mining holding. By 2015, this astute businessman held a staggering 95% of the company’s shares. But as time progressed, Kerimov passed on the beneficial rights of this empire to his son, Said. Pavel Grachev then assumed the helm as the CEO of this gold mining titan.
However, the winds of change blew once again in 2022. Polyus witnessed a leadership change, with Alexei Vostokov stepping in as the new CEO, succeeding Pavel Grachev. Coinciding with this shift, Kerimov made a magnanimous gesture.
He donated 46% of his shareholdings to the IOSF, an entity dedicated to supporting Islamic Organizations. And the Akropol company became the proud owner of another 30% of his shares.
His Charity Works
For many years Suleyman Kerimov has been known for being a major benefactor. He sponsors a wide range of cultural, spiritual, and educational projects.
Recently, Kerimov championed the creation of the School 21 campus, a brainchild of Sberbank in Makhachkala. This initiative ensures students access to IT education without bearing any costs. Beyond this, the magnanimous businessman offers scholarships to brilliant students and budding scientists. Schools and universities, too, benefit from his generous patronage.
Suleyman Kerimov also provides significant aid to his hometown, Derbent. He sponsored the construction of a multimedia fountain complex and the landscaping of the park named after the Azerbaijani poet Nizami Ganjavi. Kerimov also helped build a museum complex, a children’s playground, and many other facilities.
Karimov actively participates in the preservation of cultural heritage. He sponsored the reconstruction of the Cathedral Mosque in Moscow. When it finally opened, it became an event on a global scale. The patron put an enormous effort into ensuring that the construction of the largest mosque in the North Caucasus in Makhachkala was completed.
The funds transferred by the businessman made it possible to finish the magnificent religious site, lay utilities, and landscape the surrounding area.
Every year, Suleyman Kerimov sends a thousand Dagestanis on the sacred Hajj pilgrimage using his own money. Covering airfares and all associated costs, he ensures these individuals experience the profound spirituality of the Islamic shrines and embrace the spirit of Medina.
