Pakistani-Canadian Altamash “Alt” Haider has been awarded the Knight First Class, Order of Rizal by the Government of the Philippines, one of the country’s highest civilian honors, rarely bestowed on foreign nationals. The award honors individuals who embody the values of Dr. José Rizal through service, education, and nation-building.
Born in Karachi on October 5, 2001, Haider studied at The CAS School and volunteered at SIUT before moving to Canada in 2013. As a high school student, he recalls walking into a McDonald’s with a résumé, eager to join the workforce. He was hired on the spot as a cleaner — a role that connected him with Filipino colleagues and sparked his commitment to intercultural understanding.
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Haider later served as a Sergeant (2014–2017), joined HELI Canada, and pursued his education at York University. Today, he is recognized for his efforts to bridge Pakistani and Filipino youth, promoting shared values of resilience, creativity, and leadership.
“This honor is not mine alone,” Haider said. “It’s for every young Pakistani who works hard and represents our country with integrity.”
