East Meets West: A Charity Concert Honouring the Legacy of Humay Guliyeva

Two internationally acclaimed artists originally from Azerbaijan and now based in London, Dr. Sabina Rakcheyeva (violin) and Dr. Gunel Mirzayeva (piano), united their talents in a memorable concert that bridged East and West through music and memory, honouring the life and legacy of Humay Guliyeva, whose bright life was sadly cut short at a young age.

The concert took place at World Heart Beat, Embassy Gardens, and was organized by Humay’s friends in London. It brought together members of the Azerbaijani and international communities in a moving celebration of her compassion, intellect, and enduring impact. Selected works by renowned composers were performed, interwoven with a video presentation and special remarks reflecting on Humay’s life, her dedication to education, and her remarkable humanitarian spirit.

The event was hosted at World Heart Beat, a renowned charity organisation dedicated to nurturing the musical talent of young people from diverse backgrounds. Through its music education programmes and performance platforms, World Heart Beat empowers aspiring musicians to develop their artistry, confidence, and creative expression. During the concert, Group CEO James Gero delivered a heartfelt speech highlighting the charity’s mission and its profound impact on the next generation of artists. Hosting the concert at the World Heart Beat Embassy Gardens building created a meaningful collaboration between the two charities—benefiting both the Huma Gushu Charity Fund and World Heart Beat. The partnership reflects a close synergy in their missions to foster opportunity and nurture talent among young people from disadvantaged families, uniting shared values of compassion, mentorship, and the transformative power of music.

The concert concept, artistic direction, and opening remarks were led by Dr. Sabina Rakcheyeva, whose vision brought together the fusion of Eastern and Western traditions in a heartfelt musical tribute.

Representatives from the Embassy of the Republic of Azerbaijan in the United Kingdom attended the concert, highlighted the importance of cultural and humanitarian initiatives that strengthen ties between Azerbaijan and the global community.

During the programme, Mrs. Shahla Vazirova, President of the Huma Gushu Charity Fund and Humay’s mother, expressed deep gratitude to the musicians and organisers for their commitment to preserving Humay’s legacy. She also extended heartfelt thanks to all donors whose generous contributions continue to expand the Fund’s mission.

Founded by Humay’s family, the Huma Gushu Charity Fund supports education and opportunity for young people in Azerbaijan and beyond. The Fund provides scholarships and grants to talented students from low-income families to pursue undergraduate, graduate, and PhD studies in Azerbaijan and abroad, runs mentorship and grant programmes that help students turn ambitions into achievement, and supports Karabakh War veterans with training and upskilling in information technologies and other market-relevant skills.

All activities of the Fund are run entirely by volunteers, carrying forward Humay’s enduring legacy of humanity, education, and social impact.

The Fund’s initiatives are financed by Humay’s savings from her seven years at the International Committee of the Red Cross and by donations from supporters.

All proceeds from the concert have been donated to the Huma Gushu Charity Fund, ensuring that Humay’s legacy of compassion, knowledge, and service continues to inspire new generations