25/02/2026
Everyone should have access to the information, support and care they need which is why we’re committed to working closely with diverse communities like The Dawoodi Bohras. In the UK, they are a 5,000‑strong Muslim community with a long history of healthcare advocacy and they recently held events across 10 UK cities for World Cancer Day, to raise awareness, encourage early detection, and support people living with cancer.
Through their global philanthropic initiative, Project Rise, volunteers hosted bake sales, awareness talks, support groups and educational sessions, all aimed at breaking down barriers to healthcare access and raising vital funds for Macmillan.
Many members of the community work within the NHS, and some of them delivered targeted talks on routine screenings, healthy lifestyle choices and tackling stigma around early diagnosis.
Dr Mariyah Esmailji, Consultant Radiologist & Cancer Imaging Specialist, and member of the Dawoodi Bohra community in Birmingham said “World Cancer Day is not just a date on the calendar for us. It serves as a catalyst for long‑term action. By organising cancer awareness programmes simultaneously across our centres nationwide, we created a strong and lasting message within our community and beyond that early action saves lives. Our aim is to ensure that every individual feels supported and heard in their health journey.”
Kutbuddin Raja, from Bradford, was diagnosed with testicular cancer at 27. Now 58, he shared: “I would say go to your doctor straight away. The minute you feel a lump, just go. I know men are scared, but just go - I left it for a few months before I went, but I should have gone straight away."
Becky Turner Knowles, Relationship Fundraising Manager at Macmillan, attended some of the events: “Witnessing the Dawoodi Bohra community unite around Macmillan fundraising has been both a pleasure and a privilege. Their generosity ensures we can continue providing the best cancer care the UK has to offer, whoever and wherever people are.”
Our partnership with the Dawoodi Bohras is a powerful example of what can be achieved when communities come together with a shared purpose. 💚
We are saddened to learn of the recent passing of Dr Aysha Raza (pictured - right). She was a huge advocate of communities working together for positive change and was a great support of The Dawoodi Bohras.
