Author: Muhammad Umair Mushtaq (Abu Mikael)
At the Mikael Rayaan Foundation (MRF), our mission is simple yet profound: to honor the memory of Mikael and Rayaan by working toward a healthier, more equitable world.
The MRF Global Transplantation and Cellular Therapy Consortium (GTCTC) was established in 2024 with the aim to support and advance hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HCT) and cell and gene therapies (CGT) in developing countries – life-saving therapies for blood disorders. The objectives included:
- Enhance healthcare capacity, including infrastructure, education, and training
- Promote research collaborations
- Improve access to care
- Advocate for policies that support and advance HCT/CGT
What began as a deeply personal journey has grown into a movement that connects physicians, researchers, and institutions across continents to advance access to life-saving therapies.
Building Bridges in Transplantation & Cellular Therapy
Bone marrow transplantation and cellular therapy remain out of reach for many patients in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Through partnerships with leading international centers — including the Pakistan Blood and Marrow Transplant Society (PBMT), King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre in Riyadh, King Hussein Cancer Center in Amman, and hospitals in Morrocco and Tunisia — MRF is helping create pathways where advanced therapies can become accessible to all, regardless of geography or income.
Advancing Global Research
MRF supports and initiates collaborative clinical research that addresses challenges unique to LMICs. Current projects include retrospective and prospective studies to improve transplant outcomes and expanding access to CAR T-cell therapy and other advanced treatments by connecting global partners.
Training the Next Generation
Through the Global Visitor Transplantation and Cellular Therapy Program (GVTP) in partnership with the University of Kansas Medical Center (KUMC), MRF provides physicians from LMICs with opportunities for mentorship, training, and exposure to cutting-edge research. GVTP is a comprehensive training program aimed to provide HCT/CGT:
- Knowledge Enhancement
- Skill Development
- Networking Opportunities
- Implementation Strategies
The first GVTP session started in 2025 including 2 participants from Jordan and 2 participants from Pakistan. We have also initiated Faculty Development Lectures Series on Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation and Cell and Gene Therapies that is ongoing every other Saturday virtually starting April 2025. We are conducting an annual two-day Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy Review Course.
This investment in people ensures that the knowledge and skills acquired ripple back to local communities across the world.
Inspiring future leaders
Global Research Training Initiative (GRTI) was established to inspire future leaders in Hematology, Oncology, and Cellular Therapeutics by:
- Research Skill Development
- Career Development Inspiration
- Networking and Collaboration
- Addressing Health Disparities
We have mentored over 300 international medical students, graduates, residents and fellows in the United States
Philanthropy with Purpose
Philanthropy is the lifeline of our work. Each year, our annual fundraising dinner in Kansas City brings together a community of supporters who believe in equity, compassion, and innovation. These efforts fund our global health programs and extend humanitarian aid during crises.
Our Vision
We envision a future where the Mikael Rayaan Foundation serves as a global catalyst for health equity. By blending philanthropy, academia, and service, we strive to position Kansas City as a hub of global health innovation and to ensure that no child, family, or community is left without access to the care they need.
Every project we undertake carries the legacy of Mikael and Rayaan — a legacy of love, hope, and healing. Together, with our partners and supporters, we are transforming grief into global good.
Join us in this mission. Visit www.mikaelrayaanfoundation.org to learn more or support our global health initiatives.
