Dr. Imtiaz Sooliman, the founder and driving force behind Gift of the Givers, South Africa’s leading aid organization, is a man driven by an unwavering commitment to humanitarianism. His passionate advocacy for those in need, particularly the Palestinian people, has placed him in the crosshairs of pro-Israel groups, yet his dedication remains resolute. From humble beginnings three decades ago, inspired by a spiritual journey, Sooliman has built an organization that has touched countless lives, responding to crises both large and small, both at home and abroad. This commitment is not merely professional; it is deeply personal, weaving itself into the fabric of his life and dictating his every move.
The October 2023 rally in Cape Town encapsulates Sooliman’s dual nature: the charismatic leader capable of igniting crowds with his impassioned speeches, and the meticulous organizer working tirelessly behind the scenes. His address to protesters, angered by the escalating violence in Gaza, was a potent blend of empathy and defiance. He shared the personal losses suffered by his team in Gaza, highlighting the decades-long struggle for Palestinian justice. He challenged the prevailing narrative surrounding criticisms of Israel, dismissing accusations of anti-Semitism as tired and irrelevant, a stance that resonated deeply with the audience. This public face, however, is complemented by a private dedication to the practicalities of aid work, a dedication that sees him immersed in the minutiae of logistics, even drafting social media posts to ensure accuracy and effectiveness.
Gift of the Givers, now a sprawling organization with a presence in nine countries, has disbursed over $319 million in aid across 47 nations. Funded by both large corporations and individual donors, it addresses a vast spectrum of needs, from international disasters like tsunamis and earthquakes to local crises often overlooked by government agencies. While the organization’s reach is global, its roots remain firmly planted in South African soil, addressing the everyday struggles of communities like Touws River, where poverty and unemployment are rampant. The organization’s simultaneous involvement in diverse crises – providing meals in impoverished towns, combating wildfires, aiding refugees, and establishing shelters for women and children in war-torn Syria – underscores the breadth and depth of its commitment.
Sooliman’s outspoken criticism of Israel’s actions in Gaza, following the bombing of al-Ahli Hospital, sparked a backlash from Zionist groups. Accusations of funding terrorist groups and harboring an Islamist agenda were leveled against him, attempts were made to investigate the organization’s funding, and a campaign to discredit him unfolded on social media. These attacks, however, ultimately backfired, galvanizing a wave of support from government officials, religious leaders, activists, and ordinary citizens who rallied behind Sooliman and Gift of the Givers. This outpouring of support highlighted the deep respect and trust that Sooliman had cultivated over decades of selfless service. The campaign, while malicious, ultimately served to amplify his message and strengthen his resolve.
The disinformation campaign against Sooliman, while ultimately unsuccessful, revealed a troubling trend of targeting prominent South Africans who criticize Israel. The attempt to tarnish his reputation was seen by some as a chilling message to others who might dare to speak out. Sooliman himself believed the campaign was aimed at crippling his organization’s funding and silencing dissent. However, the backlash against the smear campaign, the groundswell of public support, and the increased corporate funding that followed, demonstrated the futility of these efforts and solidified Sooliman’s standing as a respected and trusted figure.
Sooliman’s unwavering commitment to impartiality, his refusal to take sides in complex political conflicts, has been key to Gift of the Givers’ success. His willingness to engage with all parties, including groups like Hamas, Hezbollah, and al-Shabab, demonstrates a pragmatic approach focused solely on alleviating human suffering. This neutrality has allowed the organization to operate in challenging environments and reach those most in need, regardless of political affiliation. The personal sacrifices Sooliman makes – foregoing holidays, remaining intimately involved in all aspects of the organization’s work, and consistently prioritizing others over his own personal life – further underscores his dedication. This level of commitment, coupled with his genuine empathy, has inspired widespread admiration and support, solidifying his legacy as a true humanitarian.
