Since the early 1990s, Shagufta has opened her home and heart to hundreds of children in need, offering them a safe, nurturing, and loving environment during the most challenging times of their lives
In a heartwarming recognition of her tireless dedication, Shagufta Asam, a devoted foster carer from Redbridge, has been awarded an MBE for her extraordinary contribution to supporting vulnerable children over the past 33 years. This prestigious accolade, part of the King’s New Year Honours list, celebrates individuals whose exceptional service has had a profound impact on their communities. For Shagufta, fostering has been a lifelong mission of love, and this momentous achievement is a testament to her unwavering commitment.
Since the early 1990s, Shagufta has opened her home and heart to hundreds of children in need, offering them a safe, nurturing, and loving environment during the most challenging times of their lives. Her journey as a foster carer began in 1991, inspired by a deep sense of purpose and a desire to make a difference. Speaking about her decision to become a foster carer, Shagufta shared, “My husband would go to the local mosque, where there was always talk about the need for carers for children. We decided to step forward and do something about it. That was the beginning, and the rest is history.”
At the time, Shagufta’s own children were very young—just one, three, seven, and eight years old. Despite the challenges of raising a young family, she embraced fostering with open arms, believing it was a natural extension of her role as a mother. Her biological children welcomed the foster children as part of their family, creating a loving and supportive home where everyone thrived. “We always knew we wanted to open up our home to other children,” Shagufta said. “My own children were very accepting of it and enjoy having an extended family.”
A Life Dedicated to Changing Lives
Over the decades, Shagufta has cared for children of all ages, from newborns to teenagers, providing both emergency overnight placements and long-term care. Currently, she is fostering three teenage boys, but her influence extends far beyond her current household. The bonds she has built with her foster children often last a lifetime, as evidenced by the enduring relationships she maintains with many of them.
“My first-ever foster child was a baby boy we picked up straight from the hospital,” Shagufta recalled. “We cared for him for a year and a half before he was adopted. Today, he’s grown up and living a good life in Australia. Staying in touch with him and seeing him thrive fills me with immense pride.” This story is just one of many that highlight the far-reaching impact of Shagufta’s compassion and care. From the children she has nurtured to their families and communities, her work has touched countless lives.
For Shagufta, fostering is not just a responsibility but a source of immense joy. “I have children who I’ve fostered who are now living all over the world, and we still stay in touch,” she said. “It’s an amazing feeling knowing how well they’re doing. Fostering is something I’m incredibly proud of—it brings so much happiness into our lives.”
A Surprise Recognition
The recognition of Shagufta’s extraordinary service came as a complete surprise. She had no idea she had been nominated for an MBE until she received a letter from the Cabinet Office. The nomination was put forward by her Supervisor Social Worker, a professional assigned to support foster carers in their roles. Reflecting on the moment she learned of the honour, Shagufta said, “I thought my supervisor meant an end-of-year award from the Fostering Team. When I received the letter saying I was being awarded an MBE, I was just shocked. Fostering is what I do and love—it’s not something I ever expected to be awarded for. It’s a real honour and privilege.”
A Foster Mum Who Inspires
Shagufta’s unwavering commitment has not only earned her national recognition but also the admiration of the children she fosters. One of her current foster children described her as “a kind and supportive foster mum” who goes above and beyond to nurture their interests and help them grow. “When I first came to the family, Shagufta knew I had a big interest in football and signed me up for local clubs,” the teenager shared. “She is an amazing person, and what she does changes lives. She encourages me to be the best version of myself.”
A Call to Action
Shagufta’s story is a shining example of how fostering can transform lives, both for the children in care and the carers themselves. Redbridge Council Leader, Councillor Kam Rai, praised her efforts, saying, “Shagufta is a shining example of how fostering can change lives. What she has given in the form of love, support, and a safe environment for vulnerable children will have a lasting positive impact on all the children she has cared for over the years. Her MBE is a well-deserved recognition of her incredible commitment to fostering.”
The need for foster carers remains high, and Shagufta hopes her story will inspire others to consider fostering. “If you’re thinking about fostering—just go for it,” she urged. “It’s an amazing thing to do and can be life-changing, not just for the child but for you too. All you need is a spare room, the heart to do it, and time. Fostering brings so much joy and happiness to your life. Seeing your foster kids thrive and succeed in life brings meaning to everything you do.”
A Legacy of Love
As Shagufta continues her journey as a foster carer, her legacy of love and compassion serves as an inspiration to others. Her MBE is not just a recognition of her past achievements but a celebration of the countless lives she has transformed and the hope she continues to bring to children in need. For Shagufta, fostering is more than a calling—it’s a way of life, and her extraordinary dedication is proof that one person’s kindness can indeed change the world.
