Maryland Student To Host Cancer Fundraiser

by SAH Staff Reporter June 24, 2026

By SAH Staff Reporter June 24, 2026 0 comments 2 minutes read

Courtesy: Ashwin Hazarika

Ashwin Hazarika, a rising sophomore at Northeastern University, will host the Third Annual Voice of Soul: Concert to Cancel Cancer 2026 on July 25 at Slayton House in Columbia, Maryland.

The initiative was founded by Ashwin, the son of Anjana Bordoloi and Krishna Hazarika, in memory of his friend Jamie Caswell, who died from osteosarcoma. What began as a local fundraising effort has evolved into a broader community initiative, bringing together students, musicians, healthcare professionals, and volunteers to support cancer research and patient care through the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and The Jimmy Fund, according to a statement.

The first two concerts raised nearly $30,000 collectively. Organizers have set a goal of raising more than $25,000 through this year’s campaign. Over the years, more than 70 student volunteers have participated in the initiative, gaining experience in leadership, teamwork, event management, and community service.

Ashwin’s commitment to service and leadership has earned him several honors, including the Asian American Youth Leadership Platinum Award, the President’s Volunteer Service Award signed by President Joe Biden, and two Maryland Governor’s Citations. He has also been recognized by Howard County Executive Calvin Ball and Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich for his contributions to the community.

In addition to his fundraising efforts, Ashwin is involved in healthcare outreach programs, health fairs, youth advocacy initiatives, and musical performances at cultural and senior community events. A four-year varsity soccer captain and nationally competitive club soccer captain, he balances academics, athletics, medicine, music, and community service while encouraging others to contribute to meaningful causes.

Organizers expect the 2026 concert to be the largest event in the initiative’s history, furthering Ashwin’s mission of using music to foster hope, healing, and community engagement in the fight against cancer.

Here is the link: https://charity.pledgeit.org/c/3b15cd3vry