From Passion to Action: The Indus Hospital Youth Ambassador Programme

Pakistan, a nation known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant communities, faces a profound healthcare crisis that demands urgent attention. Struggling with a myriad of challenges, the healthcare sector in the country grapples with insufficient access to medical facilities, a shortage of skilled healthcare professionals, and limited financial resources.

For the underprivileged and marginalised communities, accessing quality healthcare remains daunting as they confront barriers that hinder their ability to afford essential treatments and secure primary healthcare services. Amidst these challenges, one institution is a beacon of hope in Pakistan, with a mission to provide quality healthcare services accessible to all — Indus Hospital and Health Network (IHHN).

IHHN is driven by the passion to serve humanity and provides free, high-quality healthcare services to anyone who sets foot through IHHN’s doors. From life-saving treatments to specialised surgeries, IHHN has positively impacted millions of lives through its country-wide network of hospitals, physical rehabilitation centres, blood centres, primary care clinics, community health centres, mobile boat clinics, and public health initiatives across the region. IHHN has taken strides in bridging the gap between medical services and marginalised communities across Pakistan, but its commitment to transforming the healthcare landscape goes beyond medical expertise. Recognising the immense potential of the youth in driving positive change, the Indus Hospital, UAE branch launched the Indus Youth Ambassador Programme (IYAP) to empower young minds to be agents of progress and instil in them leadership qualities, empathy and a sense of social responsibility.

Initiated in 2021 with only 20 teenagers, IYAP has since evolved into a substantial and inclusive platform that enables young individuals to come together and actively participate in IHHN’s charitable initiatives. IYAP’s youthful and enthusiastic volunteers, mentors, and leaders have consistently proven to be vital assets to the mission served at IHHN. These young members of society hold significant potential, evident in their efforts, hard work, and resilience. Their invaluable contributions were commendable not only throughout the challenging Covid-19 pandemic but also during the devastating floods in Pakistan in 2022. This year, “The Joy of Giving” online campaign (IACAD No. PRHCE-00089633) was launched to raise funds for the treatment of childhood cancer patients in Pakistan. Our youth enthusiasts created their respective online fundraisers through the platform called Yallagive.

Despite being thousands of miles away, the IYAP Ambassadors persist in reshaping Pakistan’s healthcare landscape through their unwavering commitment to philanthropy. Our dedicated volunteers Aisha Ditta, Eman Ansari, Faris Ahmad, Hafsah Ditta, Mikail Hashmi, Sofia Omer and Zara Ansari from Dubai College; Airah Rafique Rana, Haider Afzal, Muhammad Ayan Rafique Rana and Imaan Riaz, from Dubai International Academy, Emirates Hills; Amani Khan, Ayra Nauman, Eimaan Irfan and Inayah Bawany from Jumeirah College; Aenna Khan, Ahmed Khan and Mohammad Essa Zulqadar from Repton Dubai; Hamdan Noor, Muhammad Hanzala Memon and Salah Siddiqui from Safa Community School; Aamnah Bhutta, Anam Riaz and Mikail Bhutta from Dubai International Academy; Darian Bharucha and Nadia Bharucha from American School of Dubai; Enaya Alavi and Eshal Alavi from Dubai British School; Ayaan Khawaja, Humayz Khwaja and Myiesha Khan from Dubai English Speaking College; Affan Junaid Farooq, Saadan Junaid Farooq and Misha Ali from GEMS Jumeirah Primary School; Aiza Nabil Salim and Azaan Nabil Salim from Kings School, Al Barsha; Leena Siddiqui from English College; Hania Inam from GEMS Dubai American Academy; Vivaan Shahani from GEMS Jumeirah College; Essa Umair from Hartland International School; Mariam Hoque from Jebel Ali School; Zyna Zulqadar from Jumeirah English Speaking School; Khadijah Ditta from Nord Anglia International School Dubai; and Zakariya Raie from North London Collegiate School Dubai demonstrated the potential for future leadership.

Amongst our volunteers, a few went beyond traditional fundraising activities. Aamnah Bhutta and Mikael Bhutta spearheaded a ‘Non-Uniform Day’ at their school, rallying their fellow students from all year groups to participate and donate. Sofia Omer also took fundraising to a new level and ingeniously sold candy and snacks in her school during lunch breaks.

As the Youth Ambassadors embark on their transformative journey, they become beacons of hope, lighting the path towards a healthier, more equitable Pakistan. IYAP is not just a programme; it is a testament to the power of compassion, empathy, and youth-driven change. In a world where challenges abound, the youth are stepping forward as ambassadors of progress, transforming lives and inspiring hope in the hearts of those in need. As the programme continues to thrive and expand its reach, it beckons the youth of the UAE to join hands in shaping a world where no one is left behind.