Diabetes demands daily discipline. It is not a condition eased by a quick pill or a seasonal fix, but a long-term lifestyle challenge that requires constant vigilance and informed choices.
According to Diabetes UK, “more than 5.8 million people in the UK are now living with diabetes,” the highest figure on record.
In response, Dawoodi Bohra communities in London and Bradford launched parallel efforts in support of World Diabetes Day — one on foot, the other through dialogue — each aimed at promoting prevention, awareness, and healthier living.
London Bohras join the million step challenge
Members of the London Dawoodi Bohra community took part in the 1 Million Step Challenge organised by Diabetes UK to raise awareness and funds for research.
A study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine notes that walking at a brisk pace can significantly reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
From July to September, 32 participants, including men and women of all ages, collectively recorded more than 23 million steps, far surpassing their initial target. Their efforts raised over £6,400 to support Diabetes UK’s research into better treatments and potential cures.
“I started this challenge to motivate others and raise money for the cause,” said organiser Ummul Baneen Arsiwala, who logged more than 1,320,000 steps. “Both of my grandparents were diabetic, my parents are too, so through this challenge I wanted to show everyone that movement is medicine — especially when it comes to preventing lifestyle-related illnesses like diabetes.”
Participant Fatema Dathi said that the challenge prompted her to rethink her lifestyle choices. “I have a sweet tooth, so the topic of diabetes is constantly whirling around my mind. Joining the challenge was my way of proving to myself that I could do it. As you’re doing the steps, you become conscious of what you’re putting into your body.”
Bradford Bohras organise a seminar
While London clocked steps, the Bradford Dawoodi Bohra community focused on knowledge and early intervention. Teaming up with Leeds Trinity University (LTU) and the Beacon Community Charitable Foundation (BCCF), they hosted a diabetes awareness seminar aimed to empower families with practical, research-based information.
Distinguished speakers from both institutions delivered sessions on prevention, early detection, and lifestyle management, encouraging open dialogue within the community.
“This initiative reflects our shared commitment to strengthening partnerships between academic institutions and faith-based organisations to promote better public health outcomes,” said Dr Saifuddin Ezzy Kassim, community organiser and Honorary Senior Lecturer University of Leeds.
Dr Tariq Chauhan, Executive Chairman of Beacon Medical Services Group, said, “The Dawoodi Bohra community’s dedication to improving lives through education, compassion, and proactive health initiatives truly embodies the spirit of World Diabetes Day. Their commitment to fostering healthier lifestyles and supporting one another reflects the power of community-driven change.”
Fatema Hotelwala, an attendee, reflected, “I found it informative in terms of diet and exercise. We always say we’re on our feet, but the session made me realise we still need to take time out—at least 45 minutes—for walking or doing some sort of exercise. Prevention really is better than cure.”
Dawoodi Bohra communities around the world keep undertaking such activities on a timely basis to raise awareness and combat diabetes. In addition to raising awareness within the community, volunteers organise outreach efforts under the banner of Project Rise, the community’s global philanthropic arm, to expand their reach to the wider society.