
May 6 2024, marks an important birthday for Asif Ali Bangash, who turns 34 years old. But instead of celebrating with gifts, he has decided to be the gift and give something back to the community: his healthy blood.
This act is laden with meaning since Asif Ali Bangash has been living in Australia as an asylum seeker without visa and work rights since 2012. He arrived here as a stateless young man aged 22.
Born in Parachinar, a very troubled region of Pakistan, Asif was forced to flee his homeland at a young age and has not seen his parents since them. Tragically, they have died during his time in Australia, and he was unable to return home to bid them farewell—a sorrow that many in his situation silently bear. Many known to him have also died as a result of local ethnic and political tensions.
Despite these hardships, Asif Ali Bangash chooses to focus on the positive impacts he can make. “Donating blood might seem small to others, but for me it’s a bog part of how I can contribute to the country that has given me shelter,” he explains. “It’s my way of showing gratitude, of being part of a community that I’ve grown to love, even though I am not far from where I started.”
Monday’s blood donation at the Lifeblood centre in Parramatta, scheduled at 12.45pm on his own birthday, marks his third donation and underscores Asif’s commitment to helping others despite challenging circumstances.
In times of community stress, acts of kindness resonate even more deeply within society, highlighting the universal values of empathy and support that bind us all.
“Asif’s decision to donate blood on his birthday is inspiring,” says advocate Jane Salmon, who joined him at the blood drive. “It reminds us that we all have something to contribute, no matter how constrained our circumstances.”
“Asif Ali is more than a survivor, he is a beacon of stoicism and altruism. As he continues to live in Australia awaiting overdue resolution of his visa status, his volunteering serves as a powerful reminder of our shared humanity and the impact one person can make.
“While it seems that the Immigration Minister has overlooked people in his situation, Asif does not overlook the needs of his fellow humans. People with the least often give the most. Last year Asif was often seen promoting the ‘Yes’ Campaign at train stations. He has also volunteered steadily in the community kitchen at ‘Parliament on King’ cafe in Newtown.
Giving to the Last Drop
“Lifeblood says diversity of blood phenotypes in Australia needs to mirror the genetic diversity of the population. As such, Asif’s donation has extra value,” added Ms Salmon.
His birthday wish? “That more people consider donating blood. It doesn’t cost anything, and it saves lives.
“I offer a piece of myself through the act of donating plasma. Acts which override legal statuses and cultural barriers speak to the core of human compassion and solidarity. This donation is not just blood; it’s a lifeline from one human to another, a beacon of hope in times of need. As I celebrate my birthday in a unique way. As an asylum seeker living in Australia for the past 12 years without the rights many take for granted, I have found comfort and strength in the act of giving back.
“Today, on my birthday, I have chosen to donate blood as a symbol of hope and unity”.