Team NADA are on their marks

Runners ready to raise funds for Pakistan orphanage

A group of runners from a Bradford masjid will be taking on the city’s 10K challenge next weekend as they look to raise vital funds for an orphanage in Pakistan.

Team NADA will run alongside more than 1,500 other runners at the Epilepsy Action Bradford 10K on Sunday 16th March, fundraising for the Bahn Kurma Orphanage in Azad Kashmir.

10 runners, with some as young as 16-years-old, will run as representatives of the team, led by running fanatic and Naqshbandia Active Development Association (NADA) general secretary, Nazim Ali.

TRAINING: A group of runners from Team NADA gathered in Lister Park last week to train before the 10K (l-r) Aqib Ashraf, Ishtiaq Saleem, Nazim Ali, Liaqat Ali, Saqib Nawaz and Tufail Khan

For many, it will be their first time taking on such a challenge, yet Nazim explained why the team are eager to hear the words ‘on your marks, get set, go’.

“The team are engaging in the run for the very first time and are understandably very excited and motivated to help the vulnerable orphans,” he said.

“Over the last few weeks they have been having regular team training sessions in preparation of the challenge, which is a further illustration of our organisation's personal and social development plan so that these young people can grow as individuals and engage in civic renewal.

“Furthermore, it is an example of what can be done if one strives with dedication and commitment.”

Upon completion, a group of the runners will head to Pakistan in April on their annual tour and physically hand over the donations in person, whilst meeting with the orphanage’s stakeholders.

'Team NADA' is also supporting 18-year-old Ishtiaq Saleem, a student at Dixons Allerton Academy who is fundraising for the Journey of a Lifetime Trust (JOLT) which is a registered charity that aspires to make a positive lasting difference to the lives of disabled, ill, neglected and abused young people.

Every two years, JOLT organises expeditions all over the world for groups of young people with significant disadvantages.

Nazim said: “Ishtiaq is visually impaired however; he has not allowed this to hinder him and has been training with 'Team NADA' in anticipation of the big day. He is a great addition to the team and it is great to see the youth engage with fundraising efforts.”

He added: “We are also grateful to our corporate event sponsors, W-Childcare, SD Prestige & Performance, Fresh Fillingz Deli Bars, Eco Fireplaces & Kitchens, for their generous donations and support.”

If anyone would like to make a donation to 'Team NADA' please call 07825 698283 or e-mail: nazim27@hotmail.com