London Bangla A Force for the community…
By Muhammad Talha
East London’s Renegade Riders, a close knit group of friends who cycle for leisure and good causes, came together for a deeply moving charity ride in Sutton to honour the memory of little Kayla Avya, who sadly passed away at just 16 months old.
Kayla was born at 35 weeks and faced a courageous battle from her very first breath, living with congenital malformation of the brain and cerebral palsy. Despite her struggles, she was cherished every moment of her short life.
Kayla’s care since birth was entrusted to the dedicated teams at the Royal London Hospital, Queen’s Hospital, and Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH), where doctors and nurses provided tireless round the clock support, compassion, and love.
In tribute to Kayla’s resilience, the Renegade Riders completed a special cycle ride symbolising remembrance, reflection, and unity, which included a visit to Sutton’s war memorial and a stop at the historic Shah Jahan Mosque, the first purpose built mosque in the UK – Built in 1889, it is the earliest mosque constructed in Western Europe.
The cycle team has also raised vital funds for The Sewing Machine Project in Istanbul, an initiative that empowers widows, single mothers, refugees, and struggling families to achieve financial independence.
By equipping women with sewing machines and training, the project has enabled them to earn an income, build confidence, support their households, and in some cases, even move from being recipients of charity to becoming givers of it.
Local customers and businesses have shown keen interest in the creative designs produced by the women, opening up further opportunities for growth.
Speaking after the ride, Kayla’s grandfather, Mumidul Islam, one of the Renegade Riders, said;“Kayla taught us strength in the face of difficulty. Though her time was short, her memory inspires us to help others and bring light where there is struggle. Today’s ride was not just about remembering her but about honouring her by making a difference for families in need.”
Understanding the Battle Kayla Faced
Congenital malformation of the brain refers to structural abnormalities that develop while a baby’s brain is forming in the womb. These conditions can affect brain function and development, leading to a wide range of physical and intellectual challenges.
Cerebral palsy is a lifelong condition caused by abnormal development or damage to parts of the brain that control movement. It often results in difficulties with muscle coordination, posture, and mobility. In severe cases, as with Kayla, it can also be accompanied by additional health complications.
The team were hosted to a celebratory reception by Dr Saadia Esak.
Kayla’s parents, alongside the Renegade Riders, paid tribute to the medical teams across all three hospitals; “The doctors, nurses and carers showed extraordinary patience, kindness and professionalism. They gave Kayla the best possible care, and for that we will always be grateful. Their love and dedication will stay with us forever.”
The Renegade Riders Team
Together the team rode not only for Kayla but also for a cause that transcends borders, whilst demonstrating that even in loss, there is hope, healing, and the power to uplift others.
Mumidul Islam, Moklisur Rahman, Shahel Ali, Mohsin Ahmed, Mohammed Hassan, Muhammad Abdul Hannan, Soleman Hussain, Mohammed Ali, M K Esak Jeetu, Syed Hussain Opu, Rezza Ali, Mozammel Ali, Anwar Ali, Mohammed Mahbub Uddin, Didhar Hussain and Emdad Rahman MBE.
