About Us

Our Vision

Our vision is to enhance the quality of life and wellbeing of ethnic minority older adults in the UK as a priority, while welcoming and supporting all ageing communities. We strive to connect underserved ageing populations globally through evidence-based, socially bridging initiatives.

Our Misson

The mission of the organization is to give platform to different ethnic minority ageing population through their faith-based and ethnic communities and create an inclusive environment for them to age with dignity and gracefully

Directors & Informations

Dr. Laila Surani

CEO and Founder of EMAGE CIC,
Lecturer and Independent researcher

I am a founder of EMAGE CIC, an organisation dedicated to promoting healthy and active ageing for ethnic minority communities in Redbridge and beyond. With a strong background in public health, ageing research, and community development, she combines academic expertise with deep grassroots experience to create meaningful impact. My vision is simple but powerful: to build a society where ageing is not seen as a period of decline, but as a stage of life rich with value, wisdom, and contribution. I am passionate about working with and for people from diverse cultural backgrounds, empowering communities to age with dignity, connection, and joy. Through EMAGE CIC, I will lead initiatives that bridge gaps in health and wellbeing, foster inclusion, and celebrate the strength of older generations. I am especially committed to intergenerational programmes that not only bring younger and older people together but also prepare youth to age well—promoting awareness, resilience, and healthier lifestyles across the life course. My work reflects a lifelong commitment to equity, respect, and the belief that everyone deserves to thrive at every stage of life.

Nayel hashmi

Director
He brings over 6 years of diverse experience in the IT industry, starting his journey as a freelancer and steadily growing into leadership roles. Today, he serves as the Technical Director of this company, with a strong specialization in AI automation and developing end-to-end technology solutions. Alongside this role, he also owns and manages a successful software house, leading multiple innovative projects. Partnering here as a Technical Executive, he will be contributing his expertise across all technical dimensions, ensuring seamless execution and innovation. His entrepreneurial mindset and technical acumen make him a key driver of growth and transformation.

Anish kanjiyani

Director
Dedicated and detail-oriented Chartered Certified Accountant with over 18 years of experience in financial reporting, auditing, tax preparation, and financial analysis. Proven track record of improving financial processes, ensuring compliance, and providing strategic financial guidance to businesses. Skilled in multiple financial software and adept at communicating complex financial concepts to non-financial stakeholders.

Shahana Yasmin

Director
Shahana Yasmin is a creative wellbeing professional with over a decade's experience in community health, physical activity, and inclusive arts-based programmes. As a yoga teacher trainer, retreat organiser, and event facilitator, she has led initiatives across the UK and internationally, working with diverse communities including older adults, people with disabilities, and families of SEND children. Recognised with leadership awards in sport, Shahana brings expertise in partnership building, community engagement, and culturally sensitive wellbeing design. She is passionate about intergenerational learning, sustainability, and empowering underrepresented groups to live with dignity, connection, and joy.

Dr Michaela Otis

Director
I am committed to promoting person-centred healthcare, system strengthening, and workforce wellbeing. My work focuses on evaluating quality of care and psychological capability, especially in integrated hospital settings. Using mixed methods, implementation science, and co-production, I aim to make healthcare more equitable, inclusive, and responsive. Trained in health psychology and policy evaluation, I now also facilitate reflective practice for healthcare teams, supporting their resilience in today’s complex and demanding environment.

Rania Laing

Board Advisor
Rania is an executive coach, business leader, consultant, non-executive director and advisor with over 20 years’ experience across the UK, Europe, Middle East and Asia. She is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Marketing and a Professional Certified Coach with the International Coaching Federation. Her career has spanned senior roles in retail, hospitality, and entertainment, as well as founding Purposeful Innovators CIC, a UK-based social enterprise that unites diverse communities to co-create solutions to global challenges. Rania has a strong track record of helping organisations achieve growth by combining strategic insight with her expertise in leadership development, coaching and team performance. At EMAGE CIC, she brings her skills as a trusted advisor, offering strategic guidance, governance insight and mentoring. Her people-centred approach ensures strategies are both commercially sustainable and socially impactful.

Our Core Values
Equity in Ageing

Inclusion

No one left behind in ageing services and opportunities.

Empowerment

Enabling older people to live with dignity and purpose.

Cultural Sensitivity

Respecting diverse cultural traditions.

Community Centred Development

Building from the strengths of the community using Asset Based Comunity Development approcah.

Global Solidarity

Connecting local initiatives with global ageing needs.

What They Are
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