Monday 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 become the gift and give something back to the community: his healthy blood. 

This act is laden with extra meaning since Asif Ali Bangash has been living peacefully 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 that protrudes into Afghanistan: Asif was forced to flee his homeland at a young age. Many known to him have died as a result of local ethnic and political tensions.

Asif has not seen his parents since then. Tragically, they have also passed away during his time in Australia, and he was unable to return home to express his love — a sorrow that many in his situation silently bear.

A calendar clash meant Asif’s very busy lawyer did not appear for him on the day his cohort received permanent resident visa status. He has been stranded since. Knowing the situation, Asif’s countrymen have shared their housing and resources with him. Living on friends’ charity long-term is far from comfortable for Asif who would prefer the dignity of work. 

Despite 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 big 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, highlighting the universal values of empathy and support that bind us all. 

It was with this in mind that family and friends of slain Bondi Westfield security guard Faraz Tahir also recommended giving blood in his memory. Lifeblood teams hosts a group called “10,000 Refugees Contributing To Australia” and refugee supporters are invited to join. 

“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 struggles to live in Australia, awaiting the overdue resolution of his visa status, his volunteering serves as a powerful reminder of our shared humanity and the impact one person can make,” said Salmon. 

“While it seems that the Immigration Minister overlooks the humanity of those in his situation, Asif has not ignored 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 blood or plasma. Acts which over-ride legal statuses and cultural barriers speak to our central values. This donation is not just blood; it’s a lifeline from one human to another, it is hope for someone undergoing a health crisis. 

I celebrate my birthday as an asylum seeker living in Australia for the past 12 years without the rights many take for granted, but I have found comfort and strength in the act of giving back. 

“Today, on my birthday, I have chosen to donate unity”.