Superheroes don't always wear capes; sometimes they sport hearing aids or walk with sticks. I moderated an inspiring RAF event hosted by Asian Voice at the House of Lords, in Parliament, alongside the paper's indefatigable founder, CB Patel, and our gracious host, Lord Loomba.
Campaigners are no strangers to Parliament of course. But if you want to find your purpose in life, find a campaign.
Lord Loomba is best known for his relentless advocacy through the Loomba Foundation, tirelessly supporting widows and orphans—a charity I proudly co-chair alongside Lord Bilimoria. Meanwhile, CB Patel's Asian Voice has, for decades, embodied the power of the press not just to inform but to campaign, to drive change, and to hold power accountable.
It was during this special RAF event that the role of unlikely heroes truly resonated. The RAF, often synonymous with bravery, agility, and youthful vigour, reminded us through their compelling stories that they too campaign – for clean energy. That working for them is a life of purpose.
Sitting amongst the distinguished guests, including many whose physical prowess has perhaps gently faded with time, I knew that their impact had only grown more potent with age. Wisdom accumulated over lifetimes had replaced youthful strength with moral courage and relentless advocacy.
CB Patel, himself a perenital campaigner for causes not just of interest to the British Asian community, but the British nation and the world at large too, often insists that journalism must do more than simply report—it must provoke thought, action, and even outrage when necessary. His life's work is proof of the extraordinary change that can be achieved when words find purpose and campaigns find their champions.
Political engagement and activism are not solely the preserve of the young and energetic or Parliamentarians. They flourish among those who, though perhaps slower in step, remain fierce in spirit. Find your campaign to fund your purpose or find your RAF or Asian Voice – those organisations of with purpose.
In an age often dominated by viral hashtags and fleeting online outrage, lasting change still needs steady hands, considered wisdom, and stubborn determination.
As the RAF continues its critical role addressing global challenges such as climate change and humanitarian crises, we must remember that our personal roles are no less vital. Find your campaign, as CB Patel would urge. Embrace the legacy you wish to leave behind. It might not earn you a cape or a place on a billboard, but you will join the ranks of those heroes who quietly, powerfully, change the world.
After all, superheroes truly come in all shapes, ages, and even hearing aids.