23-03-2025
The Indus Hospital Youth Ambassadors: Empowering a New Generation of Change-Makers
The youth of today are redefining the fabric of our society, harnessing their energy, passion, and dedication to drive transformative change. Recognising their potential, Indus Hospital & Health Network (IHHN) is dedicated to empowering its youth ambassadors to become pioneers of a better future. They are tackling pressing healthcare disparities through awareness, education, advocacy, and community engagement to shape a brighter future for thousands.
The Indus Hospital launched the Indus Youth Ambassador Programme (IYAP) in 2021, equipping these brilliant children to address the most pressing healthcare challenges on both local and global scales. Starting with 15 trailblazing young minds, IYAP has now grown to almost 200 dedicated individuals committed to saving lives. Thanks to their efforts, hundreds of fundraising campaigns have successfully resulted in millions of patients receiving free-of-cost, quality healthcare. They have worked tirelessly to raise funds for vital causes, ranging from nourishing mothers and their newborn babies, to supporting primary care initiatives to supporting children battling cancer.
Since its inception in 2007, Indus Hospital & Health Network (IHHN) has touched the lives of over six million patients annually in Pakistan. Under the inspired leadership of Dr Abdul Bari Khan, IHHN has grown into a robust healthcare ecosystem, comprising a network of hospitals, regional blood centres, physical rehabilitation centres, and primary care sites. Driven by an unwavering commitment to compassion and care, IHHN has consistently pushed the boundaries of healthcare accessibility, providing a safety net for the most vulnerable populations and illuminating a brighter future for millions. It is a true testament of the power of mobilisation and compassion.
Our youth ambassadors initiated the Childhood Cancer campaign on the online platform called Yallagive (with IACAD Permit No. PRHCE - 003622765) between September 2024 and February 2025. Their efforts facilitated comprehensive high-quality, free-of-cost healthcare services for children battling cancer. They raised awareness about healthcare challenges faced by these young warriors, highlighting the impact of IHHN's paediatric cancer programme. The programme is one of South Asia's largest and most advanced paediatric oncology units, offering comprehensive care that includes both curative and palliative treatments.
Childhood cancer poses a critical health challenge in Pakistan, with approximately 10,000-12,000 new cases reported annually. Despite the increasing burden, several factors contribute to the alarmingly low survival rates, which currently stand at 20-30 per cent, сompared to 80 per cent in more developed nations. The root of the problem lies in the scarcity of specialised centres for diagnosis and treatment, particularly in rural areas, leaving many children without access to timely medical care.
IHHN's paediatric oncology ward has treated more than 14,000 children since its inception and performs over 150 chemotherapy sessions every day. It has facilitated over 350 Tele-clinic consultations, empowered 250+ graduates through Indus Kay Sitaray (in-house school), and provided essential medical care to 27,612+ outpatients, 2,994+ inpatients, and 10,966+ paediatric oncology consultations. The efforts of our youth ambassadors ensured an investment in the future and well-being of children battling cancer.
The enthusiasm and commitment of our young ambassadors have raised a remarkable number of donations. Their initiatives have facilitated access to quality medical treatment, empowered marginalised communities, and changed the lives of millions.
Our devoted youth ambassadors included Aariz Rafique Raza, Simone Ramchandani and Eimaan Irfan from Jumeirah College; Abdullah Minai from Jess Jumeirah; Amna Mahmood and Moza Al Abbar from Repton School Dubai; Anisa Hussain and Enaya Alavi from Dubai British School Emirates Hills; Aaliya Masood, Disari Kulasooriya, and Rumaysa Farhan from Pristine Private School; Aryaan Tiwana, Sulaiman Habib, and Zaid Ahmad Khawaja from Dubai American Academy; Dhruv Gehani from Millennium School; Ebrahim Jalil, Rayyan Sidat, Sakina Syed, and Mina Asjad from GEMS Jumeirah Primary School; Eeshaal Ul Haq, Myra Shamim Maqbool, Aleeza Ahmed, and Nyla Sheikh from American School of Dubai; Fatyma Maleeka Jafferi from Sunmarke School; Hussain Ahmad from Gems Metropole; Wafia Wasif from Nord Anglia International School Abu Dhabi; Pim Wattanaveerachai from Gems Wellington International School; Sanvi Agarwal from Dubai International Academy Emirates Hills; Zoya Omer from Nord Anglia Dubai.
Indus Youth Mentors included Kinaan Syed from Dubai College; Haider Afzal from Dubai International Academy; Emaan Asjad, Vivaan Shahani, Mohammad Daniyal Khan, Aiza Baig, and Saif Seer from Jumeirah College; Saif Shariff from Gems Dubai American Academy; and Eshal Alavi from Dubai British School Emirates Hills.
Indus Leaders included Sofia Omer from Dubai College; Eimaan Irfan from Jumeirah College; Hamnah Kashief from Pristine Private School; Iman Riaz and Airah Rana from Dubai International Academy Emirates Hills and Zoya Lakhani from Gems Wellington International School.
Sakina and Kinaan had the unique opportunity to visit IHHN's Korangi campus in Karachi and toured the hospital building. They visited the paediatric ward, engaged with key leaders, and gained valuable insights into the operational framework of the hospital. This was a moving experience for them that fostered a deeper sense of purpose and connection to the mission, instilling an appreciation of the monumental work being carried out.
Fatyma Maleeka participated in an entrepreneurship extracurricular activity at her school, demonstrating her creativity by selling stationary packets. She was successfully able to sell her products for profit, and through her kindness and generosity, she donated all her earnings to IHHN.
Enaya demonstrated her dedication to IHHN by spearheading awareness efforts at her school. She took the initiative to organise presentations for Key Stage 3 students, educating her peers about the hospital's mission and impact. Through her efforts, she inspired her fellow students to learn more about IHHN's vital work and the importance of giving back to the community.
The unwavering dedication shown by our youth ambassadors serves as a powerful reminder that young people can lead impactful change when motivated by a noble cause. As pioneers, they have channelled their collective passion, creativity, and commitment to make a significant difference. Indus is truly blessed to have the support of these young superheroes as they continue to aid this incredible humanitarian mission.
