Shah Karim Al-Hussayni, also known simply as the Aga Khan (Imamate: 1957-present), is the leader of the Shia sect of Muslims known as the Nizari Ismailis. For 10–15 million Nizari Ismai­li Muslims the Aga Khan is the 49th hereditary Imam, with lineage ascending back to Ali, the cous­in of the Prophet Muhammad.

Hereditary Leader of Ismailis: The Aga Khan, a hereditary title bestowed upon the Imam by the Shah of Persia in the mid-19th century, derives his position of authority from his lineage. At the age of 21, the Aga Khan bypassed his father and uncle to be­come the 4th Aga Khan and 49th Imam, a choice that his grandfather made because he felt the com­munity needed a leader “who has been brought up and developed during recent years and in the midst of the new age, and who brings a new outlook on life to his office”.

Unparalleled Philanthropist: The Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) is a collection of over 200 development and humanitarian agencies that work to improve the lives of people in over 30 countries. The network is widely known for its architectural and cultural work, including projects that revitalise historic cities. Some projects include the renovation of the Old City of Aleppo and the Al-Azhar Park in Cairo. The Aga Khan’s founda­tion maintains a strong and enduring presence in developing countries: building health care capaci­ty, promoting economic development in rural areas, and helping improve educational opportunities. The AKDN is particularly influential in Central Asia, where it works in areas that are often neglected by other organizations. The period from July 2017 to July 2018 was designated the Aga Khan’s Diamond Jubilee  marking the 60th year of his reign.