Zafar Sobhan

Zafar Sobhan is a prominent Bangladeshi public intellectual, journalist, lawyer, and editor whose voice has shaped national dialogue for over two decades. A graduate of Pomona College with further studies at the University of British Columbia and Pepperdine University School of Law, he began his career as a corporate lawyer in New York before returning to Bangladesh to enter journalism. He became the country’s first internationally syndicated English-language columnist, with work appearing in The New York Times, The Guardian, Himal Southasian, Economic & Political Weekly, and other leading publications. As the founding Editor of the Dhaka Tribune, he built one of Bangladesh’s most influential English-language newspapers—known for elevating public debate, convening civil society, and giving international visibility to Bangladeshi voices. A Yale World Fellow and World Economic Forum Young Global Leader, Zafar is widely regarded as one of the most articulate liberal thinkers of his generation.

Coming from a family deeply rooted in Bangladesh’s intellectual and political history, Zafar has used writing, dialogue, and public engagement to advocate for democratic values, social justice, and a forward-looking national identity. His work has introduced Bangladesh’s stories to global audiences and helped shape how the world understands the country’s challenges and aspirations. As a member of the MillionX Founding Council, he brings his global platform, analytical depth, and commitment to nation-building to help advance the movement’s mission. He believes MillionX has the potential to cultivate a million 10x minds who can imagine a better Bangladesh, contribute to informed public discourse, and help shape the country’s technological, economic, and civic future.