Meet a Changemaker: Shofa Miah, Founder of Ashok’s Vision International

For over two decades, Shofa has been a pillar of the Newham community, dedicated her life to empowering young people and parents. Working in the front lines she has experience in early years, youth leadership, parenting, and mental health facilitations. Shofa has transformed countless lives through her work within local authority and the charity sector. She founded Ashok’s Vision International in 2019, a youth led-mental well-being charity in Forest Gate Newham, in memory of her late brother, Ashok Ali. Ashok had a history of schizophrenia and mental health challenges as a young adult and tragically died at age 29. The charity creates a safe space for young people to nurture their mental wellbeing through nature and biodiversity activities. They operate a weekly market stall and Shofa leads the youth team in delivering community events, work experience, volunteering and mentorship opportunities to young people who live work and study in Newham. Over the last 5 years, they have engaged thousands of young people in activities, via Newham’s People Powered Programmes Community funding. Shofa and her Youth Teams vision is to expand to more London boroughs, secure long-term funding, and collaborate with the NHS to integrate community-led mental health support into mainstream services. Through the charity, Shofa aims to keep her brother Ashok’s essence alive through his love for nature, play and spirituality and empowering youth leaders within our communities.