Yasmin Aga Khan: A Royal Advocate Leading the Fight Against Alzheimer’s
How the Daughter of Rita Hayworth Became a Global Voice for Dementia Awareness
Introduction
Yasmin Aga Khan is a remarkable figure who blends royal lineage with global humanitarian work. Best known for her tireless advocacy for Alzheimer’s awareness and fundraising, she has become a powerful voice in health-related philanthropy, inspired deeply by her mother, the legendary actress Rita Hayworth. Yasmin’s efforts have raised tens of millions for dementia research and caregiver support.
Quick Bio
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Yasmin Aga Khan |
| Date of Birth | December 28, 1949 |
| Age | 75 (as of 2025) |
| Nationality | American (Swiss-born) |
| Ethnicity | American & Pakistani-Persian |
| Accent | American English |
| Education | Bennington College, Vermont |
| Children | Andrew Ali Embiricos (1986–2011) |
| Parents | Rita Hayworth & Prince Aly Khan |
| Known For | Alzheimer’s Advocacy, Rita Hayworth Gala |
Born in Lausanne, Switzerland, on December 28, 1949, Yasmin Aga Khan is the daughter of Hollywood star Rita Hayworth and Prince Aly Khan, a prominent diplomat of Pakistani descent. After her parents’ divorce in the early 1950s, Yasmin was raised by her mother in the United States, experiencing a childhood both glamorous and grounded.
She spent her early years studying at private schools such as Buxton School in Massachusetts and the International School of Geneva. Her upbringing was enriched with cultural diversity, a blend of East and West that would later shape her global philanthropic vision.
Educational Journey and Artistic Interests
Yasmin’s academic pursuit led her to Bennington College in Vermont, from which she graduated in 1973. There, she initially explored opera and classical music, revealing a passion for the arts like her mother. Although she considered a performing career, her trajectory shifted dramatically following her mother’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis in the early 1980s.
Rather than pursuing fame, Yasmin channelled her energy into advocacy and public service. Her education laid the foundation for eloquent communication and strategic thinking, both of which have become central to her advocacy work.
Marriage, Children, and Personal Life
In 1985, Yasmin married Greek shipping heir Basil Embiricos. The couple welcomed a son, Andrew Ali Embiricos, in 1986. Tragically, Andrew passed away in 2011, an event that brought immense sorrow to Yasmin’s otherwise public-spirited life. She later married businessman Christopher Jeffries in 1989, though the marriage ended in 1993.
Despite personal challenges, Yasmin remained devoted to her advocacy, drawing strength from her experiences to fuel her mission to change the world’s understanding of Alzheimer’s disease.
The Start of Her Advocacy Career
Yasmin’s journey into global health advocacy began when Rita Hayworth was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s disease. At the time, the condition was poorly understood and surrounded by stigma. Yasmin recognized the lack of public awareness and scientific research, and decided to make a difference.
In 1984, she launched the Rita Hayworth Gala in New York. What began as a tribute to her mother soon became a powerhouse fundraising initiative. The event attracted major celebrities, philanthropists, and medical experts, and eventually expanded to Chicago.
Career Highlights and Achievements
Yasmin’s career is defined not by commercial success but by transformative impact. She serves as Vice Chair of the Alzheimer’s Association and President of Alzheimer’s Disease International. She’s also on the boards of the Salk Institute and the Aga Khan Foundation.
Through the Rita Hayworth Galas and her broader efforts, she has helped raise over $90 million for Alzheimer’s research, caregiver support, and public education. Her legacy includes reducing stigma around dementia and pushing governments to take action on neurodegenerative diseases.
Source of Income and Philanthropic Funding
While Yasmin belongs to a wealthy family—the Aga Khan lineage is among the most financially influential in the world—her primary income and visibility stem from philanthropy. She is believed to have inherited considerable assets from both her mother and father, enabling her to contribute generously to charitable causes.
Her role in international events, speaking engagements, and leadership in global health organizations also reflects a professional and socially impactful career supported by personal wealth.
Public Recognition and Honors
Over the decades, Yasmin has received multiple awards for her advocacy. These include the Alzheimer’s Association Lifetime Achievement Award and the title of Chevalier (Knight) of the French Legion of Honour, one of the nation’s highest civilian honours. U.S. presidents have acknowledged her work, and media outlets consistently recognise her influence in global health.
She is also a strong voice for the use of arts and creativity in dementia care. Yasmin appeared in the 2009 documentary I Remember Better When I Paint, promoting art therapy for Alzheimer’s patients.
Latest News and Ongoing Contributions
In recent years, Yasmin continues to host and attend high-profile events focused on Alzheimer’s care and cure development. In 2024, she led the Imagine Benefit Gala in New York, continuing her mother’s legacy with renewed vigour. She also collaborates with WHO-affiliated campaigns to promote global dementia strategies.
Her dedication shows no sign of slowing, and she remains a respected authority on neurological diseases and aging populations.
Conclusion
Yasmin Aga Khan is a woman of nobility—not just by birth, but by action. Her life story is one of personal resilience, social responsibility, and unwavering commitment to a cause that touches millions. From glamorous Hollywood roots to the frontlines of medical advocacy, she stands as a model of purpose-led leadership. Her work continues to inspire change and hope for families worldwide affected by Alzheimer’s.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is Yasmin Aga Khan best known for?
A: She is best known for her advocacy in Alzheimer’s awareness and fundraising, particularly through the Rita Hayworth Gala.
Q2: Is Yasmin Aga Khan married?
A: She was previously married to Basil Embiricos and Christopher Jeffries, but is currently not married.
Q3: How did she start her work in Alzheimer’s advocacy?
A: Her mother’s battle with Alzheimer’s disease inspired her to launch awareness campaigns and fundraising efforts in the early 1980s.
Q4: What is her net worth?
A: Her estimated net worth is around $100 million, largely inherited from the Aga Khan and Hayworth legacies.
Q5: What awards has she received?
A: She has received the Alzheimer’s Association Lifetime Achievement Award and was named a Knight of France’s Legion of Honour.
