Aysha Raza: From Neuroscience to Politics and Conservation
Aysha Raza, who has died of a stroke aged 52, was a remarkable figure who bridged the worlds of science, politics, and environmental activism. Trained as a neuroscientist, she pivoted to a political career after participating in campaigns to save NHS hospitals in west London, ultimately serving as a Labour councillor for the Central Greenford ward in Ealing from 2014 until her passing.
Political and Community Leadership
In her role as a councillor, Aysha made history by becoming the first Muslim woman to serve on the cabinet of Ealing council. Her work focused on tackling crime and inequality, demonstrating a deep commitment to social justice. She was dedicated to her constituents, engaging in community activities such as acting in the annual pantomime staged by the Holy Cross Players. Additionally, she served as a trustee or governor for numerous organisations in her ward, including Stanhope primary school, which honours her legacy with a house named after her and a "Be Like Aysha" award.
Conservation Efforts and Wildlife Advocacy
Beyond politics, Aysha was an active member of the Ealing Wildlife Group (EWG), a community-led conservation and rewilding organisation. She played a key role in the Ealing Beaver Project, liaising with the council to select a suitable site and secure permissions for establishing a beaver colony in Paradise Fields, a nature reserve in her ward. Her volunteer work extended to other EWG initiatives, such as supporting peregrine falcons nesting on Ealing hospital and participating in harvest mouse releases across borough nature reserves. In the 2025 David Attenborough documentary Wild London, Aysha can be seen releasing a harvest mouse at Paradise Fields, highlighting her passion for wildlife.
Early Life and Scientific Background
Born in Aberdare, Wales, to Sabiha (née Rahman), a council administrator, and Asghar Raza, a civil engineer, Aysha grew up in Ealing. She attended Oldfield and Coston primary schools, and Notting Hill and Ealing high school, where she developed an early interest in nature through activities with the London Wildlife Trust, including meeting naturalists David Attenborough and David Bellamy. After completing her A-levels, she participated in a green turtle conservation project in Sindh province, Pakistan, before studying anatomy and developmental biology at University College London. She earned a BSc in 1995 and pursued a neuroscience PhD, contributing to research on Huntington's disease through several postdoctoral appointments.
Personal Legacy and Tributes
Aysha was known for her vibrant personality, hearty laugh, and distinctive style, often featuring her favourite colour purple and Dr Martens boots. She enjoyed singing, dancing, Hollywood and Bollywood movies, gardening, and fossil hunting. Warmly regarded in the Labour movement and the west London Muslim community, her funeral at Harrow Central mosque was attended by the mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, who spoke in her honour. She is survived by her mother, sister Saira, and brother Adil, leaving behind a legacy of dedication to public service and environmental stewardship.
