A teenager from Elderslie is getting set to take on the Glasgow Kiltwalk challenge for the ninth time in memory of her brother.
Mariya Javed was only seven years old when her older brother, Ahmar, died suddenly at the age of 13 in 2017 from arteriovenous malformation (AVM), a rare condition that caused him to suffer a bleed in the brain.
Mariya, who is now 15, has taken part in every Kiltwalk since her brother’s passing and has raised thousands of pounds for the Office for Rare Conditions and Child Bereavement UK.
She has also been involved in setting up a charity, Another Star in the Sky, in honour of her brother. She was named Young Scotswoman of the Year in 2021 and Coronation Champion in 2023.
Last year, after being nominated as a Local Hero by MSP Paul O’Kane, she met King Charles and attended the Scottish Parliament’s 25th anniversary as his guest.
As well as raising awareness of AVM, she has campaigned for the inclusion of compulsory bereavement education in the Scottish school curriculum.
Mariya’s mother, Sameena Javed, has been especially vocal about the lack of support in schools following the death of a pupil. Speaking to Renfrewshire News in the past, she believes that the absence of compulsory bereavement services left the family—and Ahmar’s school friends—to cope with their grief largely on their own.
This year, along with the usual support from friends and family, Mariya will be joined by teachers and staff from her school, St. Benedict’s High School in Linwood.
Photo Credit: (left to right): Urooj Mohsan – Biology, Anna Caira – Deputy Headteacher, Lucy Findlay – Chemistry, Mariya, Alan Taylor – Headteacher and Zane Horrocks – Biology
Photo Credit (inc. headline photo): Javed Family
The Kiltwalk event always carries special significance for the Javed family, as it falls on or around the anniversary of Ahmar’s passing.
Although her recent studies have kept her from the charity events that followed her meeting with the King last year, this Kiltwalk marks her first major event of 2025.
Alan Taylor, Headteacher at St. Benedict’s, explained his involvement: I’m taking part in the Glasgow Kiltwalk to inspire our pupils, support a meaningful cause, and show that when we walk together – with purpose and pride – we can make a real difference in our community.”
Deputy Headteacher Anna Caira said: “It will be my privilege and pleasure to support this worthy cause again this year. The St. Benedict’s team recognises the hard work involved in continuing to raise the profile of this worthy charity, and we will do all that we can to keep Ahmar’s story alive.”
Urooj Mohsan, a Biology teacher at St. Benedict’s, will be joining the walk for the first time, he said: “I’m taking part in my first Kiltwalk to support Mariya raise money in honour of her brother’s charity, Another Star in the Sky.
“I am extremely proud of our pupils for demonstrating the values that matter most: kindness, compassion, and community. Keep going – I have no doubt you will all continue to inspire those around you!”
The Glasgow Kiltwalk takes place in Glasgow on Sunday, 27th April .
If you would like to donate to Mariya’s Kiltwalk appeal, visit: www.justgiving.com/page/mariyas-kiltwalk-2025.