In loving memory of Saliha Sardar: a legacy of compassion and community
SALIHA SARDAR
1958 – 2023
Saliha Basit Sardar was born in the town of Bahawalnagar, Pakistan. In the early 1970s, she moved to Lahore to pursue her education at the Lahore Women’s University where she earned a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree.
In 1977, she married Ziauddin Sardar, a distinguished writer and cultural critic, in her beloved hometown. The following year, she relocated to London to join her husband. Together, they built a loving home in northwest London and raised three children: Maha, Zaid and Zain.
Saliha was a beacon of kindness and joy to everyone fortunate enough to cross her path. Her radiant smile and infectious laughter lit up every room, and she had a rare gift for seeing the best in everyone. Her home was always a sanctuary of warmth and hospitality, where family, friends and even strangers were welcomed with open arms and a comforting meal.
The world’s children were her children; her home was overflowing with love, always open, with a delicious meal at the ready.
As she settled into life in the UK, Saliha’s natural desire to give back to her community found its true expression. She began working as a part-time teaching assistant at The Village School in Kingsbury, which became her professional home for more than two decades. The school supports children and young people aged 3 to 19 with a wide range of special educational needs and disabilities, including physical disabilities and complex mental health conditions.
For Saliha, working with children with special needs was far more than a job. It was her calling. Her deep empathy, endless patience and genuine passion transformed her role into a lifelong mission. Over the years, she transitioned into a full-time position, devoting herself entirely to nurturing and empowering the pupils in her care. She made sure that every child felt seen, valued and loved.
Her profound empathy, unwavering patience, and genuine passion transformed her work into a lifelong mission.
Saliha’s commitment to the children at The Village School was truly remarkable. She cared for each child as if they were her own and created an atmosphere of compassion and encouragement that left a lasting impression on all who knew her. Her dedication was unmatched; she never missed a single day of work, exemplifying a tireless devotion to her role.
Sadly, in November 2022, she was diagnosed with cancer. Despite her courage and resilience, she passed away shortly after her diagnosis on 20 January 2023. She was laid to rest in Mill Hill Cemetery, in the Borough of Barnet, close to the community she had served so faithfully for much of her life.
Her passing was a profound loss to her family, friends, and the pupils and staff at The Village School, who had been looking forward to celebrating her well-earned retirement. Though her physical presence is deeply missed, the spirit of love, compassion and service that defined her life continues to shine.
Her life continues to inspire all who knew her, reminding us of the profound impact one individual can have on their community and beyond.
Saliha’s legacy is one of selfless service, immense compassion and unconditional love. Her life continues to inspire all who knew her, a lasting reminder of the profound impact one individual can have on their community.
To honour her memory and continue her life’s work, the Saliha Sardar Trust for Special Needs Children was established. Founded by her three children, her husband, close friends and colleagues from The Village School, the Trust stands as a testament to Saliha’s enduring influence. Through this initiative, her lifelong commitment to uplifting children with special educational needs and disabilities will live on, offering support and hope for generations to come.
