Javad Marandi: Building a Legacy of Opportunity and Community Support

Philanthropy often makes the biggest impact when it is deeply personal. For Javad Marandi, co-chair of The Marandi Foundation, giving back is not simply about financial contributions—it is about creating pathways that improve lives and strengthen communities across the UK.

Since founding the organisation in 2017 with his wife, Narmina, Marandi has focused on tackling two vital areas: supporting vulnerable children and families, and promoting access to arts, culture, and education. His work reflects a belief that social investment should address both immediate needs and long-term opportunities.

One of the foundation’s most important commitments is to mental health support for young people. In recent years, the UK has seen a surge in demand for mental health services, particularly among school-aged children and students. Javad Marandi recognises that behind the statistics are real lives—young people who need timely help, guidance, and resilience-building. By funding initiatives in this space, the foundation ensures that those struggling are not left without support.

Education is another cornerstone of his mission. The Marandi Foundation provides scholarships and works closely with institutions to make learning accessible to disadvantaged students. For Marandi, education is more than academic attainment; it is a springboard for social mobility. Scholarships and cultural access programmes help young people to expand their horizons, build confidence, and engage with opportunities that might otherwise remain out of reach.

But Javad Marandi’s vision extends beyond classrooms. The foundation also champions access to the arts and cultural heritage. In his view, cultural institutions are not luxuries reserved for a few but shared treasures that should inspire and enrich everyone. By backing museums, heritage sites, and arts programmes, the foundation opens doors for young people to experience creativity, history, and design in transformative ways.

Equally important is Marandi’s recognition of the individuals who dedicate their lives to service. In his letter, he pays tribute to teachers, social workers, mental health professionals, and cultural leaders who form the backbone of thriving communities. By supporting these professionals through funding and partnerships, the foundation amplifies their impact and helps to sustain essential services.

What stands out about Javad Marandi’s philanthropic philosophy is its collaborative spirit. He encourages not only large-scale institutional partnerships but also smaller, community-driven contributions. The foundation highlights ways for individuals to get involved, whether through donations, volunteering, or sharing expertise. This inclusivity ensures that the ripple effect of giving extends far beyond financial grants.

Ultimately, Marandi’s approach to philanthropy is both practical and aspirational. It acknowledges urgent needs, such as youth mental health, while also investing in cultural and educational projects that shape the future. This balance ensures that the foundation’s work is not just reactive but also visionary, helping communities prepare for challenges ahead.

Through The Marandi Foundation, Javad Marandi continues to demonstrate how philanthropy can be a catalyst for meaningful change. His legacy is not only one of generosity but also of creating opportunities where they are needed most—ensuring that the next generation has the tools, support, and inspiration to thrive.