Our Stories
See stories from the Ismaili Community around the world.
What does ADHD feel like?
6 April 2024
From across her desk, the doctor looks me in the eye. “I’m sure you have the condition,” she says in a matter-of-fact tone. “I can confirm the diagnosis.” My mind goes into a spin. These are words nobody wants to hear. Except me — this is exactly what I wanted.
From Melbourne to the main stage
28 January 2024
Meet Eshan Lakhani, a young, passionate musician from Australia who turned the mundane beat of pots and pans into a symphony of inspiration.
A story of fashion and compassion
27 September 2023
Salima Visram grew up in Kenya — a land of striking beauty and vibrant colours. She always had selfless aspirations: her initial career goal was to work for the UN. But while at university in Canada, she learned about different ways to make a positive impact on the world, and her journey took an unexpected detour.
Sweet success: How beekeeping transforms lives
25 September 2023
In the picturesque valleys of northern Pakistan, Shabi Noor Khan's life took a fortuitous turn. Last year, he received a small donation of honey bees with which he managed to generate an income that helped to clear his debts and cover his daily expenses. Shabi Noor is just one beneficiary of the Socio-Economic Development Programme (SEDP) that's changing lives through beekeeping.
Navigating uncharted career paths: Lessons from astrophysicist Jamil Shariff
28 August 2023
In the boundless expanse of career possibilities, the journey to finding your path can feel like coursing through the cosmos — filled with unexpected discoveries, unforeseen challenges, and unconventional opportunities. Jamil Shariff, a senior technical staff member in Systems Design at Canadian space technology company MDA, embodies this journey with a career trajectory that defies the norm, offering invaluable insights for those seeking to advance in their careers while facing the unknown.
Disability to dynamism
27 June 2023
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.
From Hunza to the international stage: Meet Noorima Rehan
6 June 2023
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.
Meet Rozina, the environmental advocate changing the world one act at a time
4 June 2023
In a world grappling with the impacts of ecological crisis, a ray of hope shines through the tireless efforts of individuals dedicated to preserving our planet. Among them is Rozina Kanchwala, whose passionate advocacy is rapidly capturing attention.
A reunion story to remember
29 March 2023
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.
Living with dyslexia
6 March 2023
From an early age I realised I was a little different to others in school. Although I had a passion for storytelling and expression — especially through theatre and drama — I struggled significantly to gain a love for reading.
Why I wrote a children’s book about cancer
29 November 2022
At the age of four, I was diagnosed with cancer, and was basically living in the hospital. I remember always having an IV attached to me, but did not understand why this metal pole with a beeping machine had to follow me around everywhere I went.
