A fundraising campaign launched in memory of four-year-old Sara Nanabawa, who tragically died in the recent Air India plane crash along with her parents, has received an outpouring of community support—raising over £30,000 within 24 hours.
The initiative, named the Sara Nanabawa Fund, aims to establish a permanent hardship fund to support families in need at Al-Ashraf Primary School in Gloucester, where young Sara was a pupil. The fund’s purpose is to assist students and their families facing financial difficulties, particularly in times of unexpected crisis.
Sara, her father Akeel Nanabawa, and her mother Hannaa Vorajee were among the passengers who lost their lives when their flight crashed on Thursday while returning from a surprise trip to India.
Speaking to BBC West, Akeel’s cousin Abu Nanabawa reflected on the legacy left behind by the couple. “Akeel and Hannaa were incredibly generous people,” he said. “They lived by giving, and we want their memory to reflect that same spirit. This fund is our way of honouring them.”
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He added that the family has been deeply moved by the overwhelming support from the community. “It brings us some comfort knowing that their legacy will help other families through difficult times.”
Efforts are currently underway in India to confirm the identities of those who perished in the crash. Imam Abdullah Patel, a close family representative, has traveled to India to assist with the process.
Meanwhile, Alex McIntyre, the Labour MP for Gloucester, confirmed that he is actively liaising with authorities to support the grieving family. “Since the crash, I’ve been in regular contact with Abdullah Patel and have been working closely with the Foreign Office and the Indian High Commissioner’s Office to ensure the family receives the assistance it needs,” McIntyre said.
He also noted that British government officials stationed in Ahmedabad have reached out to support those affected.
As the local and wider communities continue to mourn the loss, the success of the fundraiser stands as a testament to the impact the Nanabawa family had on those around them—and the lasting legacy they leave behind.
