Linwood hero set to tackle ninth Kiltwalk in a row in honour of older brother
Mariya Javed has been doing her bit to support research into the rare brain condition called arteriovenous malformation (AVM) which claimed her brother Ahmar's life when he was just 13.
Local fundraising hero Mariya Javed is set to take on her ninth Kiltwalk in a row in honour of her older brother – and this time is to be joined by staff at her school.
Mariya has been a regular in the pages of the Paisley Daily Express, doing her bit to support research into the rare brain condition called arteriovenous malformation (AVM) which claimed her brother Ahmar's life when he was just 13.
Alongside her parents, the inspirational teenager set up the charity Another Star in the Sky, for which she has so far raised £32,000.
The Kiltwalk is a poignant event for the Javed family, falling close to the anniversary of Ahmar's passing on April 30, 2017, and it's not always easy for Mariya, who said she still finds it 'very difficult to share memories of my brother with others'.
But she said she's still 'very grateful to have the support of my friends and teachers around me as they cheer me up if I get upset, listen to my problems and know how to make me feel better'.
Mariya - named Young Scotswoman of the Year in 2021, as well as Kiltwalk Hero 2021 and Renfrewshire Inspirational Young Citizen 2021 – is studying for seven National Five exams at St Benedict's High in Linwood.
And at the Glasgow Kiltwalk this Saturday she'll be joined by staff from the school as well as friends and family.
Alan Taylor, head teacher at St Benedict's High, said: 'I'm taking part in the Glasgow Kiltwalk to inspire our pupils, support a meaningful cause, and show that when we walk together - with purpose and pride - we can make a real difference in our community.'
Anna Caira, depute head teacher, is also taking part and added: 'It will be my privilege and pleasure to support this worthy cause.
'The St Benedict's team recognise the hard work involved in continuing to raise the profile of this worthy charity and we will do all that we can to keep Ahmar's story alive.'
Urooj Mohsan, Biology teacher, said: 'I'm taking part in my first Kiltwalk to support Mariya and raise money in honour of her brother's charity, Another Star in the Sky.
'I am extremely proud of our pupils for demonstrating the values that matter most: kindness, compassion and community. Keep going: I have no doubt you will all continue to inspire those around you!'
On taking on the Kiltwalk for a ninth time, Mariya said: 'It's kind of become a part of my life now that I've been doing it for so long.
'I like walking and chatting with my friends and meeting new people. Everyone who takes part in the Kiltwalk is doing it for a particular reason and it's always good to think that hopefully I might be making a small difference to someone's life somehow.
'The main thing that keeps me motivated is the thought that I'm doing this for my older brother. I want to keep his name and memory alive. He would have done many good things if he was still here, so it's up to me to do them for him.
'Another big motivation is the support of my friends, teachers, everyone at Glasgow Children's Hospital Charity and the thousands of other people who take part in the Kiltwalk too. Certain friends and teachers join me every time, even those who didn't know Ahmar. That is very important for me and I appreciate it so much.'
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