Event Overview & Keynote Impact
The event was organised as an opportunity to recognise and celebrate the collective impact made possible through the generosity, trust and continued commitment of major donors and partner organisations who stand alongside vulnerable children and families across the world.
Opening the reception, Aghosh UK CEO Khawaja Abid Mehmood reflected on the collective impact achieved through the support of donors and partners. He shared incredible milestones reached through global dedication:
In Gaza, Aghosh UK has supported more than 2,000 orphaned children, over 500 bereaved families of healthcare workers, and the education of hundreds of medical students. The organisation has also delivered more than 363,000 freshly prepared meals to families in need.
Core Work and Pillars of Support
A key presentation was delivered by Dr Adeel Riaz, Chairman of Aghosh UK, who outlined the organisation's work across seven core areas. Reflecting on Aghosh UK's approach, Dr Riaz highlighted the importance of investing in long-term solutions to build human capacity and strengthen communities.
He shared examples including support for orphaned children, healthcare worker families and medical students affected by the ongoing crisis in Gaza.
Reflections from Parliamentary Speakers
Throughout the afternoon, speakers reflected on the vital role charities play in responding to humanitarian need and supporting vulnerable communities.
"Despite being a relatively small community within the UK, British Muslims remain among the country's most generous donors, highlighting that compassion, generosity and service to humanity are deeply rooted within the Islamic faith." — Afzal Khan MP
"Charities are the backbone of society. The contribution made by organisations such as Aghosh UK in serving vulnerable communities is highly praiseworthy." — Baroness Pola Uddin, Member of the House of Lords
Chris Doyle, Director of Caabu, highlighted the immense challenges facing humanitarian organisations operating in conflict-affected regions. He spoke about the growing humanitarian needs in Gaza and the importance of continuing support for vulnerable families, children and orphaned communities.
The audience also heard from Sarah Owen MP, who spoke about the vulnerability of women and children affected by conflict in Gaza and the importance of ensuring that future generations are given opportunities not only to survive but to thrive.
Community Trust and Transparency
Aqeel Ajazi from Masjid Al-Hikmah in Aberdeen strongly endorsed Aghosh UK’s work, highlighting that his masjid has supported various projects through Aghosh UK. He praised the Aghosh’s detailed feedback, transparency and impact reporting, which he said are hugely appreciated by the community.
The reception concluded with reflections from community leader Abdul Majeed, Chairman of Waltham Forest Islamic Association, who shared his personal experience of engaging with Aghosh UK. He recalled attending an Aghosh UK fundraising dinner intending to make a small contribution, but after being deeply impressed by the organisation’s work and impact, his community went on to fund a full ambulance and support a number of other projects.
Looking Towards the Future
The event served as an opportunity to thank supporters, volunteers, partners and communities whose trust has enabled Aghosh UK to continue serving vulnerable families over many years. As Aghosh UK looks towards the future, the organisation remains committed to combining immediate humanitarian assistance with long-term investment in education, healthcare, orphan care and community development helping create opportunities, dignity and hope for future generations.
We extend our sincere gratitude to all guests, speakers, volunteers, supporters and partners who joined us and continue to make this work possible.