Our Stories
See stories from the Ismaili Community around the world.
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.
A bright light amid the darkness
7 September 2022
My blindness is not my weakness, but my greatest strength. I could see one day, but the next I could not. Once I realized I would be blind for the rest of my life, the challenge placed before me cultivated a strong motivation. I wanted to learn new and diverse ways of doing things. Each barrier became a challenge, and each challenge an invitation to overcome.
The story behind The Ismaili Sounds
20 June 2022
In May 2020, while the world was in lockdown, The Ismaili TV hosted a virtual Shukrana Concert to commemorate Eid ul-Fitr. To prepare, the organising team issued a call out for song submissions, hoping for a few hours worth of content. The response was overwhelming. A new platform was soon created to showcase the musical talent of the Jamat – and thus, two years ago this week, The Ismaili Sounds was born.
Facing my fears, year after year
10 May 2022
As part of the one percent of the population who stammer (stutter), I know first-hand the challenges that come with having one. I remember the feeling of dread when being asked my name or if I had to speak on the telephone. Ever since I was young, I’ve been on a journey to find the courage to face my speaking fears.
Mental health care for all: Let's make it a reality
7 October 2021
Mental health isn't just the absence of mental illness. It extends to a more holistic spectrum of emotional and social well being, and affects how we think, feel, and act. To raise awareness of mental health issues globally and mobilise efforts around it, World Mental Health Day is observed on 10 October every year. This year's theme highlights the urgency to make quality mental health care a reality for all.
