A Bradford-born entrepreneur behind some of the city’s best-known food brands has been appointed the first-ever official ambassador for Bradford Hospitals Charity, in a move aimed at strengthening community-led fundraising for local hospitals.
Ishfaq Farooq, a director of MyLahore and Wunder Crumble, has supported the charity’s work for more than a decade, contributing to initiatives ranging from patient meals to improving ward facilities.
Under the new ambassador role, Bradford Hospitals Charity will be integrated into major events delivered by Ishfaq and the wider MyLahore group, creating regular opportunities to raise funds and engage with the public.
One recent example included fundraising linked to the city’s winter attraction, Wunder Winterland, which raised £1,500 for the charity during the festive period.
The initial focus of the partnership will be to support the development of a ‘Home from Home’ kitchen and dining space at Bradford Royal Infirmary, designed to improve facilities for families whose premature or unwell babies are receiving specialist care. Further fundraising priorities will be identified once the project is complete.
Speaking about the appointment, Ishfaq said community events could play a powerful role in supporting essential services, adding that Bradford’s hospitals had supported his family for generations.
“These events demonstrate how community-led initiatives can play a powerful role in supporting charitable causes while creating inclusive, safe spaces for people to come together,” said Ishfaq.
“We’re passionate about raising awareness, championing causes, and supporting fundraising efforts for the benefit of patients, staff and the wider community. Bradford is my home, and having used its services for generations, Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust is like family.”
Laura Riach, Director of Bradford Hospitals Charity, welcomed the appointment, saying: “I couldn’t think of anyone better to name as our first ambassador. Ishfaq has been unbelievably generous and supportive of the charity for more than ten years.
“We are excited to work with him as we continue to grow the charity and as we launch our ‘Home from Home’ appeal, which will provide free accommodation and improved facilities for families of premature or unwell babies being cared for in our Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. This is a cause very close to his heart.”
