Community News

I’ll never forget the feeling of the sand beneath my feet as I walked along the beach, watching the tide come in. I’ll never forget the sound of 120 people wincing audibly as I dislocated my elbow at a middle school wrestling meet. Most of all, I’ll never forget the way the entire world and all its problems melted away as I sped down a hill on my longboard.

World Blood Donor Day is an occasion dedicated to raising awareness about the critical need for safe blood and blood products. These inspiring tales of service and survival highlight the profound impact that a simple act of donating blood can have on individuals facing life-threatening conditions. From Salim Amlani's journey with thalassemia, where the support of dedicated donors ensured his survival, to Munira Premji's courageous battle against multiple cancers, made possible by timely blood transfusions, and Ronil Shivji's commitment to donating plasma, these stories serve as a testament to the power of compassion and the vital importance of blood donation.

Noorima Rehan is a 17-year-old aspiring Ismaili vocalist from Ghulkin, Gojal, Hunza. Located approximately 142km from Gilgit, Ghulkin is situated on the west of Hunza in the Karakorum, surrounded by glaciers and streams. Noorima's love for music runs deep within her being, and she finds herself singing in every moment of her life. Her vocal skills have propelled her to new heights. Most notably,  she recently represented Pakistan during King Charles III's Coronation Concert in London.

As members of the Jamat seek to build new lives in unfamiliar lands, they often face various obstacles to economic growth and financial stability. However, the Skills Development Initiative is offering hope and tangible support to those seeking to re-establish themselves in a different place.

On 4 March, at the Ismaili Centre Vancouver, two strangers came together to share a special moment — 50 years after first crossing paths during a milestone event in both of their lives.