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Kayum Masimov is a dedicated Uyghur Canadian advocate and community leader based in Montreal, Quebec. Born into a family of Uyghur refugees from the former USSR, he has been active in the East Turkistan (Uyghur) independence and human rights movement since his youth. 

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Community Leadership
He previously served as President of the Uyghur Canadian Society, where he amplified concerns over rising harassment and intimidation of Uyghur Canadians by Chinese authorities, Uyghur Human Rights Project. Masimov has also frequently contributed as an interpreter for Uyghur survivors testifying before the Canadian Parliament’s Subcommittee on International Human Rights.

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Role at Uyghur Rights Advocacy Project (URAP)
As Project Manager at the Uyghur Rights Advocacy Project—based in Ottawa and committed to promoting the rights of Uyghurs through research and public advocacy—Masimov has played a central role in policy engagement and refugee support initiatives. He has spoken out on matters such as forced labour links and the need for a stronger Canadian response to Uyghur rights abuses.

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Cultural and Public Engagement
Masimov spearheaded the Uyghur translation of Viktor Frankl’s Man’s Search for Meaning, advancing trauma healing within the Uyghur diaspora. He also participated in events marking its launch at the Montreal Holocaust Museum on Human Rights Day, engaging in dialogue with community and religious leaders 

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Personal Impact and Advocacy
In his advocacy and public appearances, Masimov has shared powerful insights into the cumulative trauma suffered by Uyghur Canadians. He has highlighted how “not a single Uyghur Canadian family has not been affected,” and described dealing with intergenerational PTSD, threats, and familial separations that many still endure.