We Are Non Profit Organization
The Irish Uyghur Cultural Association is a registered non-profit dedicated to preserving Uyghur culture, language, and identity within Ireland. Our mission is to provide a safe and inclusive space for Uyghur families to connect, share their heritage, and integrate into Irish society through cultural exchange and education.
While we remain non-political and non-religious, we cannot ignore the human rights violations faced by Uyghurs in China. We strive to raise awareness and advocate for justice, giving a voice to those who are silenced. Our work is powered by volunteers and sustained through the generosity of donors who believe in cultural preservation, human dignity, and community solidarity.
Who we are
Nuria Zyden — Co-founder & Executive Director
Born and raised in Kashgar, Nuria has spent over a decade in Ireland building bridges between communities and speaking out against ongoing abuses faced by Uyghurs. She has 10+ years’ experience in international corporations. Qualifications: BA in International Business & Entrepreneurship (IADT), MSc in Business Risk Management (Ulster University, 2018), and a Level 9 Certificate in Workforce Management. She leads strategy, partnerships, and cultural programmes.
Zhalaldin Yussupov — Co-founder & Director
Born in 1961 in Kazakhstan, Zhalaldin trained in engineering and management and co-founded a trading company in 1989 linking Kazakhstan with neighbouring markets, including East Turkistan. He supported Uyghurs under pressure from China to secure visas and residency. After moving to Ireland in 2002, he was elected in 2003 as head of the Uyghur diaspora (“Yigit Beshi”). He continues to champion cultural preservation, community events, integration, and rights advocacy.
Board Members & Leads
Parvina Ilakhunova — Policy Outreach & Safeguarding Lead
Born in Kazakhstan. BA in Marketing; MSc in Business Analytics. With family roots in East Turkistan, Parvina is committed to Uyghur history and culture. She coordinates policy engagement, safeguarding practice, and helps organise community events.
Parhad Keyyum Idikut — Treasurer & Company Secretary
A Uyghur researcher and Project Researcher in Finland, focusing on tourism governance and rural/community development. He manages IUCA finance and governance. Publications include a 2020 study on the Silk Road Economic Belt and inbound tourism, and a 2024 thesis on data management for the NGO Uyghur Rights Monitor.
Tarsis Santos — IT & Social Media Manager
Oversees the website, social channels, digital security, and content scheduling; supports outreach through analytics and online campaigns.
Malkia Hidayat — Community Support; Turkish & Uyghur Outreach
Born in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, to a Uyghur family from Kashgar displaced in the 1960s. Driven by a commitment to justice, Malkia leads outreach, women’s support, and community wellbeing activities.
Gulya Mametova — Education & Youth Development
Leads language, education and youth initiatives, including mentoring, workshops, and cultural learning for young people.
Become a volunteer
Join us to be a voice for the voiceless.
Your Time Can Change Lives. Join Us to Protect a Culture, Empower Lives, and Shape a Future of Freedom for the Uyghur.