Meet the new Canberra charity empowering the territory’s emerging sporting talent

Posted on 14 May, 2026

A new local charity dedicated to empowering the territory’s emerging sporting talent is set to launch later this month to address a critical gap in youth sports across the ACT.

The Uqasha Imran Foundation was established and named in honour of the 22-year-old Canberran, Taekwondo athlete, and philanthropist whose life was tragically cut short in a motorbike accident caused by a bus in 2025.

Looking to support young athletes who are forced to walk away from competition due to the financial and logistical barriers that often stand between potential and performance, the Uqasha Imran Foundation wants to bridge this gap – helping to give young people in Canberra a real chance to follow their dreams.

The foundation was created by Uqasha Imran’s loved ones to embody her work, and will provide grants and hands-on support to give young athletes the tools they need to remain active, confident and resilient for life.

Officially launching on Saturday 16 May at Eastlakes Gungahlin, the local community is invited to come together for an evening of stories, celebration and fundraising.

“Too many emerging athletes drop out of sport just as they need its benefits most,” says Imran, the Founder of the Uqasha Imran Foundation.

“We want every young person in Canberra who has the talent and the drive to have a real chance at fulfilling their potential.”

The launch will feature testimonials from families and young athletes already supported by the Foundation, an address from Donate Life and a live auction, with all funds raised on the night going directly toward the Foundation’s first six-month program.

With an ambitious fundraising goal for its inaugural year – which will help provide athlete grants, coaching support and community engagement across the ACT – the evening will also be attended by several Canberra sporting identities and surprise special guests.

The launch represents a significant first step for the Uqasha Imran Foundation as they transform their grief into a mission for good.

To support the Imran family and to learn more about the Uqasha Imran Foundation, visit uqashaimranfoundation.org.