The Voice of Lived Experience.

Advocating for better diabetes care and community support across every island.

Our mission

At the Blue Advocacy Network for Diabetes, we empower people living with diabetes through advocacy, community support, and a shared commitment to ensuring no one faces this journey alone.

Our story

Blue Advocacy Network for Diabetes (BAND) was founded by individuals living with diabetes who understand firsthand the daily realities of managing the condition in the Maldives. From navigating access to insulin and modern glucose monitoring technology to overcoming misunderstandings about diabetes, the challenges are deeply personal.

What began as shared conversations about these experiences grew into a commitment to create change. We believed that the voices of people living with diabetes should be heard not only in clinics, but also in communities, workplaces, and national conversations about healthcare.

BAND was created to bridge gaps in diabetes care through advocacy, community empowerment, and stronger connections among people living with diabetes. We work to ensure that whether someone lives in Malé or on a remote island, they have access to the care, tools, and understanding they deserve.

Our story is rooted in lived experience, driven by resilience, and guided by a simple belief that no one should have to face diabetes alone.

The team behind BAND.

Aminath
Abdul Rahman

AAR

Aminath (Aana) has lived with type 1 diabetes since childhood. As an IDF Young Leaders in Diabetes alumna, she has dedicated her life to advocating for the diabetes community.

Fathih
Mohamed

Fathih has lived with type 1 diabetes since 2003, channelling his experience into advocacy and support for the diabetes community across the Maldives and beyond.

Mariyam
Nafha

Nafha was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in 2015 and has since dedicated herself to reducing stigma and supporting others navigating life with diabetes.

Ahmed
Jaisham Hood

AJH

Jaisham was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in 2012 and later rediagnosed with MODY, channelling his journey into advocacy and community empowerment.

Ibrahim
Arshal

Arshal draws on his lived experience with type 1 diabetes since 2012 to advocate for better resources and co-found BAND.

EXCO

Inaugural Election

The inaugural Executive Committee members are scheduled to be elected on 10 April 2026.

Advocacy in Action.

Policy Reform

Advocating for policy reforms to ensure comprehensive coverage of essential diabetes care and advanced health technologies under national social welfare schemes.

Patient Empowerment

Providing the resources, mentorship, and community support needed to empower individuals living with diabetes, ensuring that no one has to navigate their journey alone.

Community Education

Building a deeply informed and proactive community by raising awareness, debunking myths, and sharing critical knowledge about diabetes management and long-term health.

How to Get Involved.

Join as a Member

Become a vital part of our network. Advocate for policy change and gain access to our collective support system.

Volunteer with Us

Lend your skills to help organize workshops, summits, and local outreach programs across the atolls.

Support the Cause

Your contributions fund our core advocacy initiatives, which help build a more empowered diabetes community.