Cardiff student to host fundraising concert in aid of younger sister living with arthritis

12 March 2026

Brother turns music into fundraising for sister living with juvenile arthritis

University of Cardiff student Haider Khan, 19, has organised a Vocaloid concert on Sunday March 15 with the university's Vocaloid Society in aid of charity Arthritis UK who have supported his younger sister since her arthritis diagnosis.  

Sfiyah was only 9 years old when she was diagnosed with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). Her diagnosis came after months spent bouncing between A&E and doctors’ appointments, seeking answers to her symptoms beyond being told it was just ‘growing pains’.  

Haider has seen the impact that the condition has had on Sfiyah’s childhood, from struggling to fit in at school, being stopped from enjoying her favourite outdoor activities and not being able to live the life a typical 9-year-old. Haider knows first-hand the mental and physical difficulties that JIA can present, even behind closed doors.  

He wanted to find a new way to give back to the charity that supported his sister. Haider, who will also be performing in the concert, was able to combine his interests of music and fundraising and was elated when the university's Vocaloid Society, of which he is president, were right behind him supporting him to run the event.  

Haider said: “Arthritis UK has been with Sfiyah every step of the way, providing a community for her and helping her stay strong. I've seen how much the charity does for families like my own and this concert is my way of giving back. I'm excited to return to the stage, and to sing with my friends for a great cause.” 

Arthritis UK, the UK’s leading arthritis charity, works with families across the nations to make sure that the 10,000 children and young people living with arthritis and musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions have access to the information, treatment and support that they deserve.  

Elinor Tuckey, Arthritis UK’s Young People and Families’ Manager in Wales, will be attending the concert, and said: 

“We are beyond grateful to have such passionate, dedicated and talented supporters. Our community and fundraisers are at the heart of Arthritis UK and It’s their commitment that drives our work for more timely diagnosis, treatment and care for all people living with arthritis like Sfiyah. 

“Sfiyah and Haider represent only a fraction of the families across the UK who manage the complexities of growing up with a chronic illness. JIA is a condition that impacts all aspects of childhood, including both mental and physical wellbeing. 

“Having known the family for many years, I’m grateful for the opportunity to be present for Haider’s debut concert as he raises awareness for his sister’s condition.” 

The concert will be held at Y Plas, Cardiff University Students' Union, and welcomes members of the public to enjoy performances from emerging K-Pop and J-Pop artists. Tickets can be purchased online via the events page of Cardiff Student Union’s website or on the door. Profits will be donated to Arthritis UK. 

ENDS

Notes to editors

More information on the event:

Purchase tickets online

Haider's just giving page

About Arthritis UK

Arthritis UK is the leading arthritis charity, changing lives through research, campaigning and support. 

Over 10 million adults, young people and children in the UK live with arthritis. That’s one in six of us living with the pain, fatigue, disability, mental and financial strain it can cause. Many more live with arthritis but remain undiagnosed, untreated and unsupported. 

We know the impact of arthritis can be huge, affecting the ability to work, care for family, move free from pain and live independently. Yet for a condition affecting so many, it’s poorly understood and far too little is done. That’s why we invest in life-changing research into better treatments, support people through the daily challenges of life with arthritis, and campaign on the issues that matter most to people living with it. 

At Arthritis UK, we won’t rest until everyone with arthritis has access to treatments and support they need to live the life they choose, with real hope for a cure in the future. Find out more at: www.arthritis-uk.org 

Arthritis UK. For a future free from arthritis.