About us
Luma Foundation
Our aim is to fund essential medical equipment for delivering optimal care to children in Yorkshire's hospitals when such equipment is not available through NHS sources. This state-of-the-art medical equipment also has the potential to revolutionise training for the hundreds of up-and-coming surgeons who train in Leeds. Throughout the year, Luma Foundation members and trustees meticulously plan and host a variety of fundraising events across the region, aimed at generating these vital funds.
Equipment Needed
Dr. Naved Alizai, an experienced keyhole surgery specialist and a proctor of robotic surgery for the UK and Europe, has identified two pieces of equipment with the potential to transform training for aspiring surgeons at Leeds Children’s Hospital. These innovations will not only attract and retain top medical talents but also enable them to perform a greater number of procedures, leading to shorter hospital stays for patients.
Laparo Apex
The Laparo Apex is a hybrid virtual reality and physical module laparoscopic simulator used to train surgeons ahead of keyhole surgery procedures.
Dual console for Da Vinci robot
The Da Vinci surgical system provides surgeons with a set of instruments which are controlled via a console to perform robotic-assisted minimally invasive surgery.
Trustees
Alex Duckett
Currently the Managing Director of Gilbanks, a professional serviced office provider with sites in Leeds and Manchester, Alex took the role of Chairman of the charity in 2024.
Dr. Naved Alizai
A Consultant Paediatric Surgeon at Leeds Children’s Hospital, with an interest in gastrointestinal and liver surgery. He is an experienced keyhole surgery specialist and is a member of the team providing a supra-regional service for liver diseases - one of three in the UK.
Clementine Duckett
Clem is a corporate lawyer and in house counsel for Charles Taylor, a global insurance services business. Clementine was appointed trustee and secretary of the charity in 2024.
Edward Marsden
Ed is an investment manager at James Hambro & Partners looking after private clients, trusts, corporates, and charities. Ed has a keen interest in charities and has worked with a wide range of charities across the North of England. He was delighted to join the charity as a trustee in 2023.
Jo Ropner
Jo Ropner has been His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of North Yorkshire, the Sovereign's representative in the County, since 2018. Jo is a successful businesswoman who has considerable involvement in the voluntary and charitable sectors across North Yorkshire and beyond. She is an experienced board member, chair and trustee of many local charities.