UNB Student Ali Alburaki Raises Funds for Cancer Research

October 20, 2025 – SAINT JOHN, NB

At just 18 years old, University of New Brunswick student Ali Alburaki has combined his love for table tennis with a passion for helping others by organizing a fundraiser to support cancer awareness and research.

Ali, currently studying for a Bachelor of Health, first picked up a paddle four years ago. His inspiration for the event came during a Grade 12 co-op placement through Horizon Health’s Promote 150 program. “I shadowed in the oncology department at the hospital, where I saw firsthand the physical and psychological toll cancer has on patients,” Alburaki said.

The cause holds deep personal significance as well. “My two grandparents on my mother’s side passed away due to cancer,” he shared. “Seeing the impact on my family made me realize how important it is to raise awareness and support others going through similar challenges.”

The fundraiser featured multiple competitions, including a marathon-style tournament across four divisions and a highly popular 3-Point Doubles Competition. The Rising Star Cup crowned divisional winners, who earned gift cards and had their names added to the Claire LeBlanc Memorial Cup. Claire LeBlanc, a former Moncton District Table Tennis Association player, passed away from cancer in 1981 at the age of 23. “One major surprise was the overwhelming participation in the doubles competition,” said Alburaki. “It created such an energetic atmosphere and helped us raise even more funds.”

The event was a true collaboration, organized with the support of the New Brunswick Table Tennis Association and the Greater Moncton Table Tennis Club. “Teamwork and communication were essential,” Alburaki added. “I couldn’t have done it without the support of the NB Table Tennis Committee and my fellow organizers.”

Looking ahead, he hopes to grow the event. “Next time, I’d start advertising earlier to attract players from other provinces and create more opportunities for beginners.”

Ali’s advice for others planning a similar initiative: “Start early, build connections, stay flexible, and remember why you’re doing it. That motivation keeps you going.”

Table Tennis for Hope is just beginning. Alburaki plans to evolve the initiative into an annual charitable program, choosing a new cause each year. “The goal is to make every serve and rally count for something bigger than the game.”