Bachar Houli is the Founder of the Bachar Houli Foundation and a former Australian Rules Footballer for the Richmond Football Club, famously known as the first devout Muslim to play the game at the highest level. Houli was drafted in the 2006 NAB AFL Draft with selection No. 42 by the Essendon Football Club. After four years and 26 games with the Bombers, he made the move to Richmond where he forged a remarkable career, playing over 200 games.

Off the field, Houli is a devout Muslim and the founder of the Bachar Houli Foundation. Houli is regarded as a leader and role model for the Australian community due to his inspiring work promoting social cohesion and harmony. Houli’s dedication and commitment to his community work with Muslim youth has enabled him to become one of Australia’s most prominent public figures. He has been internationally recognised and awarded the Beyond Sport achievement award for the Bachar Houli Islamic Programs in Philadelphia, USA and ​High Excellence Award for Muslim and non-Muslim Understanding​.