ISLAMABAD: Born on April 21, 1966, Shayan ‘Poppy’ Afzal Khan lost her battle against cancer on Saturday in London, after a fight of almost 14 years.

A social entrepreneur, human and political rights activist and an Islamic feminist, Poppy set up Kuch Khaas, a community space for discourse, learning, meaningful entertainment and participation, in Islamabad in May 2011.

She was an extraordinary person who was many things to many people and described herself most often through her relationships – mother, daughter, sister, wife, niece and friend. She was a larger than life woman who managed to remain thoroughly grounded.

Poppy was a true global citizen who left a mark on the capital with her contribution to social discourse and initiatives. Kuch Khaas fast became a wonderful space which brought many broadminded people for important causes.

Originally from Karachi, the formidable Poppy was a firm believer in a progressive and liberal Pakistan.

Her amazing legacy is not just the vibrant cultural centre she founded but also the encouragement and support she gave to the many young people whose talents she fostered.

She is survived by her daughters, who are part of the generation she hoped would fulfill her dreams for her country.

Poppy’s struggle with cancer began in 2001 and in 2011 she celebrated 10 cancer-free years. Then, in 2012, the demon returned and metastasized. Poppy, however, continued to live in grace through the journey.

Maryam Usman, who had known Poppy since 2010, said: “Poppy had a special charm and contagious optimism about her. She changed the cultural landscape of the capital with her brainchild, Kuch Khaas that gave so many young people a platform to nurture their creativity. I worked under her at Kuch Khaas before becoming a journalist and she was always full of encouragement, support, positive energy and sound advice. It is my privilege to have known her. May she rest in peace.”

In 2012, Poppy wrote, “As for death, no point worrying about something we have no control over – any one of us could die today or tomorrow or in decades, who knows when or how? What I do know is that I have been blessed – getting cancer has made me appreciate my life even more, it has brought me closer to the people I love and who love me. It has made it easier for me to sift out negative emotions and negative forces in my life and has brought me closer to God. Being forced to face my mortality has made life even more worth living.”

In her dedication to a better world, she made life worth living for a lot of people! Caring, compassionate and a ceaseless advocate for a myriad of causes to empower individuals and preserve the environment, Poppy has left Islamabad much poorer with her passing.

Her legacy lives on, in her daughters, her Kuch Khaas family and the hundreds of people she inspired to live fuller lives.

Rest in peace, Poppy, as we mourn your passing and celebrate your life!

Published in Dawn, February 23rd, 2015

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