In the heart of Pakistan, where faith can tragically become a matter of life and death, three children—Suleman, Sonia, and Poonam—continue to carry the weight of an unimaginable past.
In November 2014, the world recoiled in horror when Shama and Shehzad, a young Christian couple, were falsely accused of blasphemy. What followed was an act of unspeakable cruelty: they were brutally tortured and burned alive in a brick kiln by an extremist mob. This atrocity, driven by religious intolerance and hatred, left their three innocent children orphaned, traumatized, and at the mercy of a society that had already taken everything from them.
Since that dark day, the British Asian Christian Association (BACA) has remained steadfast in supporting Shama and Shehzad’s children—not merely as a friendly presence, but as a committed lifeline. We’ve worked tirelessly to improve their living conditions, provide consistent emotional care, and nurture their Christian faith. Through the dedicated support of a live-in nanny, we’ve ensured they are never alone. In addition, BACA has covered essential expenses including school uniforms, groceries, clothing, and other daily necessities, helping to restore stability and dignity to their young lives.
A New Season, A New Beginning
Earlier this month, the Easter season brought renewed joy to the children. Thanks to the generous support of our donors, Suleman (15), Sonia (13), and Poonam (11) received new summer clothing, footwear, and electric fans to help them endure the harsh heat wave sweeping through their region.
However, one vital part of their home still carried the marks of neglect and sadness—the walls of their rooms.
The paint was dull, cracked, and covered in scribbles left behind by previous tenants. The dreariness affected the children’s emotional wellbeing and made it difficult for them to find comfort in their own space. Suleman shared,
“We don’t want to sit in the room as the walls present a very awkward look.”
Moved by their request during a BACA visit in February, we made a plan. On 26th April 2025, a fresh coat of paint was applied to the entire house, transforming not just the rooms, but the spirits of the children.
Sonia expressed her joy with a heartfelt smile:
“It looks very beautiful to have new paint on the walls in the house and the rooms. It gives a very pleasant feeling. Now we love to sit here and do our studies. Thanks to BACA donors for helping us and giving our house a new paint.”
Continuing the Journey: Will You Help?
With the paint now brightening their world, new needs have arisen. Yasmin Bibi, the children’s live-in nanny, shared that the cupboard used by Sonia and Poonam is broken, and as the girls grow older, they deserve a secure and private space to keep their belongings.
This is where we need your help.
We invite you to be a part of this ongoing journey of healing and hope. Your donation—big or small—makes a tangible difference in the lives of these children.
Let us stand together against hatred and injustice by showing these children that love still has the final word.
Thank you for being a beacon of light in their lives.
Juliet Chowdhry, Trustee for the British Asian Christian Association, shared:
“This Lent, the children made heartfelt resolutions and have been faithfully praying to see them fulfilled. They are determined to study hard and become the kind of young people their parents would be proud of. The recent move to a new home—graciously provided by the Catholic Church—has been a significant transition for them, especially as it was prompted by the declining health of their maternal grandfather, who is also their legal guardian. This change has brought emotional and logistical challenges.
At BACA, we believe that a safe, uplifting home environment is key to a child’s wellbeing and development. By painting the house and attending to their daily needs, we aim to bring a sense of comfort and renewal. These children have endured unimaginable trauma, yet they continue to show strength, faith, and hope. It is our mission to stand beside them—encouraging them to dream again, study with purpose, and know they are deeply loved and not forgotten.”
