Retirement is often seen as a time to slow down — a season for rest, reflection, and wondering what comes next. For us, it became something else entirely: a new beginning.

In 2005, as Mr. Graham Walker, a maxillofacial surgeon, and Dr. Farzin Rahmani, an anaesthetist, approached retirement, we asked ourselves not, “How will we fill our days?” but rather, “How can we make these days count?”

The answer came in the form of a dream — to build an HIV centre in Africa. At the same time, Shida and Farzin’s daughter, Raz. was spending her gap year in Zambia. With her encouragement, we felt a gentle nudge to take a leap of faith.

What began as an idea to ease the uncertainties of retirement soon became the most rewarding chapter of our lives. The centre we built has grown into far more than bricks and mortar — it is a place of hope, healing, and belonging. Over the years, we have seen lives transformed, families supported, and an entire community strengthened by compassion and care.

In 2005, Zambian Gems charity was born. It was named not after minerals, but rather Zambia’s true gems – it’s people. In 2010, it was registered with the UK Charity Commission, bringing structure and partnerships.

Our story is proof that it is never too late to begin something meaningful. What started as one decision, made over 20 years ago, has blossomed into a mission greater than we ever imagined.

And this story is still being written. We warmly invite you to be part of it — by sharing our mission, supporting our work, or simply walking alongside us in whatever way you can.