Now in its 21st year, The Muslim News Awards for Excellence continues to honour the remarkable achievements across our community. Nominated by our readers and carefully assessed by our esteemed panel of independent judges, we are proud to unveil the outstanding men, women, children, organisations, and initiatives shortlisted for this year’s accolades. These shining examples of excellence and best practice will be celebrated at a prestigious gala evening this July, where they will join distinguished guests and peers for the announcement of the winners of the fifteen coveted Awards for Excellence.
Alim Kamara, a British Muslim of Sierra Leonean heritage from Tottenham, North London, is a celebrated storyteller and founder of Storie Storie. His dynamic storytelling inspires over 50,000 young people globally— from London to Kenya, Peru to Canada—promoting values of honesty, resilience, and cultural pride. Drawing from African oral traditions and Islamic principles, Alim’s work dismantles stereotypes and fosters unity. He has performed across six continents and earned praise from figures such as HRH Queen Camilla and the President of Sierra Leone. His engaging sessions are sought after by schools, charities, and institutions such as Channel 4 and Amnesty International. Through storytelling, Alim empowers young people to embrace their identity and values, making him a compelling role model and a worthy nominee for his contributions to community and youth development.
Salah El Brogy, an Egyptian Muslim based in the UK, is a groundbreaking choreographer, dancer, and educator whose work bridges cultures and challenges stereotypes. Fusing classical theatre, martial arts, and hip-hop, he has developed a unique performance style that explores identity and faith. Salah has starred in acclaimed productions like Border Tales and Vertical Road, earning accolades including Best Dancer (2008). He developed the Extemporaneous Dance Style to help dancers unlock creativity and teaches across the UK and the MENA region. Through outreach and digital platforms, Salah makes the arts more inclusive. As a cultural ambassador and role model, he is celebrated for using movement to explore Muslim identity and foster cross-cultural understanding.
Shazia Rashida, a British Islamic fine artist and calligrapher, combines traditional Islamic art with therapeutic practice to support mental wellbeing and community healing. A mother and caregiver, Shazia leads inclusive arts initiatives funded by the Arts Council, delivering exhibitions that connect participants to heritage and spirituality. Her grassroots approach makes Islamic art accessible to underserved communities, offering a platform for emotional expression and healing. As an art therapy practitioner, she integrates creative healing with Islamic aesthetics. Her dual roles as artist and advocate embody resilience and compassion, making her an inspiring force in cultural preservation and mental health through the arts.
Professor Revd Dr Helen Paynter and Dr Maria Power jointly lead groundbreaking research into how far-right groups misuse Christian theology to fuel Islamophobia. Professor Paynter directs the Centre for the Study of Bible and Violence at Bristol Baptist College, while Dr Power serves as Senior Research Fellow at the Las Casas Institute for Social Justice, Blackfriars Hall, University of Oxford. Together, they co-edited The Church, the Far Right and the Claim to Christianity (2024), a pivotal work that challenges anti-Muslim rhetoric disguised as Christian doctrine. Operating from Bristol and Oxford, they have developed crucial resources and educational programmes to empower churches in resisting far-right narratives and fostering meaningful interfaith understanding. Their efforts equip future church leaders with deep insight into Islam and Muslim communities.
Liam Thorpe, Political Editor of the Liverpool Echo, is recognised for his principled and compassionate reporting during and after the Southport riots. His coverage amplified Muslim voices, countered misinformation when Islamophobia threatened to escalate tensions, and highlighted community resilience and unity. By focusing on stories of solidarity, he helped calm tensions and promote understanding at a volatile time. Liam consistently challenges anti-Muslim stereotypes and uses his platform to foster dialogue and inclusivity. His journalism reflects deep integrity and a commitment to truth, giving space to underrepresented voices and reinforcing public trust. Thorpe’s impactful reporting exemplifies the media’s power to challenge hate and uplift communities, making him a worthy nominee for his unwavering support of the Muslim community.
Sarah Owen, MP for Luton North, has championed British Muslim communities through fearless political leadership. As Co-Chair of the APPG on British Muslims, she has campaigned for the adoption of the APPG’s definition of Islamophobia and challenged the government on its failure to tackle anti-Muslim hatred. Despite facing far-right backlash and political cost—including resigning from Labour’s front bench over her call for a Gaza ceasefire, she remains steadfast in advocating for justice. Now Chair of the Women and Equalities Select Committee, she has launched a landmark inquiry into gendered Islamophobia. Sarah regularly engages with Muslim initiatives, showing sincere and consistent solidarity. Her advocacy reflects deep integrity and an unflinching commitment to equity and inclusion.
Naila Seetal made history as the first Muslim and the first female Child Prime Minister of the Sir David Amess UK Children’s Parliament. A passionate advocate for animal welfare, the environment, and youth empowerment, she has co-chaired DEFRA and COBRA meetings, campaigned for Herbie’s Law, and championed STEM and diversity through her writing in First News. Her activism includes Football for Peace and interviewing the founder of Stability AI. Despite academic pressures, including her 11+ exams, Naila remains a powerful role model. From speaking in Parliament to writing to Queen Camilla about elephant protection, she continues to prove that young people, especially from minority backgrounds, can lead with compassion, resilience, and vision to create positive social change.
Thalia S Arif (14) is a prolific writer, poet, illustrator, and environmental advocate of Malaysian descent based in Leamington Spa. Inspired by a family of authors, she published Mermaid Lagoon at age 10 and has won multiple Young Muslim Writers Awards in poetry, short story, playscript, screenplay, and journalism. Her writings explore identity, climate, and justice, with recognition from judges across major literary competitions. Thalia’s poem My Choice on the hijab won her school’s interfaith poetry prize, while her work Silent Rebirth was published by Theatre in the Rough. Thalia’s work has been recognised internationally, including in exhibitions and features on Islam Channel. A gifted artist too, she won the 2024 Warwickshire Libraries Bookmark Competition. Thalia is also memorising the Quran and is a role model for Muslim youth across the UK.
Zayd I Arif, an 11-year-old British boy of Malaysian heritage based in Leamington Spa, is a gifted Quran reciter, writer, digital artist, and voice actor. Aiming to memorise the Quran by age 12, he has already committed 50 surahs to memory and regularly recites at Islamic events across the UK. In 2024, he won three categories at the Young Writers Muslim Awards and impressed judges with his powerful poem Watched. Zayd’s talents span voice acting, digital art—featured by Motaz Azaiza—and Rubik’s Cube competitions. He also founded a school club and initiated Friday prayers at his secondary school. With a deep love for learning, creativity, and community, Zayd is a shining example of resilience, leadership, and excellence at a young age.
FL Women and Family Wellness is a grassroots initiative led by Muslim women in Barking and Dagenham, East London. They have made a transformative impact through health, wellness, and empowerment programmes, especially during the pandemic and Ramadan, distributing food, prayer packs, and IT equipment to hundreds of families. Their work supports women overcoming domestic abuse, divorce, and unemployment, offering practical aid, training, and business guidance. They host inclusive community events and donate meals to the homeless weekly. With a growing network of volunteers, they run free physical, creative, and wellbeing activities for all ages. Their tireless commitment to inclusivity and support, regardless of faith or background, has earned them local recognition and the status of community champions.
MEND (Muslim Engagement and Development), founded in 2014 by Sufyan Ismail, is a UK-based organisation tackling Islamophobia and promoting civic engagement. It empowers British Muslims through grassroots education in media and politics, while advocating at Westminster and challenging harmful narratives in the press. MEND co-founded Islamophobia Awareness Month and partners with the Electoral Commission to boost Muslim political participation. Its work has been recognised by the World Economic Forum and ODIHR as a model for civil society. By fostering media literacy, hosting seminars, and holding politicians accountable, MEND plays a vital role in promoting an inclusive society and amplifying British Muslim voices in national discourse.
Zara Mohammed is the first woman and youngest person to serve as Secretary General of the Muslim Council of Britain. In her role, she has championed community development, visiting over 200 organisations nationwide and inspiring young people—especially women—to lead and achieve. Under her leadership, the MCB promotes unity, representation, and confidence among British Muslims. Zara supported mosques participating in the “Visit My Mosque” initiative through her visits and interviews, and has also worked with political, educational, and civic leaders to strengthen interfaith understanding. Zara also helped amplify safeguarding efforts by co-signing a joint letter with the NSPCC calling for action on child abuse. Zara’s tireless efforts have cemented her as a respected voice for British Muslims and a role model for the next generation.
Abdul Malik, Bristol City Councillor, is a prominent interfaith and community leader whose work has built bridges between Muslim and non-Muslim communities. As Chair of Easton Jamia Mosque, he has championed inclusive engagement, eco-friendly innovation, and women’s inclusion—earning Beacon Awards for both the Green Initiative and the Sisters’ Section. Abdul regularly partners with local churches and synagogues, and organises the city’s iconic public Grand Iftar, which has become a symbol of unity. He has opened the mosque to schools and faith leaders, fostering respectful dialogue. A committed environmental advocate, he has positioned faith at the heart of sustainability. His leadership has strengthened civic relationships and inter-community harmony, earning him recognition for excellence in community relations.
Cllr Suleman Khonat JP, of Blackburn, is a lifelong volunteer and community leader. A local councillor since 2004, he serves as a magistrate and is known for his selfless work with the Blackburn Muslim Burial Society—supporting bereaved families from funeral arrangements to physically preparing graves. A passionate fundraiser, he has raised over £250,000 for East Lancs Hospice. A former weaver, bus conductor, and newsagent, Suleman rose to become National President of the National Federation of Retail Newsagents. He is also a founding governor of Tauheedul Islamic Girls’ School. Honoured with a BBC Community Hero nomination in 2018, his decades of grassroots service have profoundly impacted lives across Blackburn and beyond.
Trubys Garden Tea Room, founded in 2014 by British Muslim women in Milton Keynes, is a community café promoting interfaith dialogue and social justice. Through initiatives like the Abrahamic Women’s Choir and the Great Get Together Iftaar—which drew over 800 attendees at its peak, Trubys bridges cultural divides and fosters community spirit. It has supported Afghan and Syrian refugees, distributed over 400 food hampers, and launched a hardship fund for vulnerable families. Their efforts have empowered women, tackled food insecurity, and enabled outreach to underserved groups. In 2024, Trubys received The King’s Award and achieved charity status. Their warm, inclusive approach continues to transform lives, proving that a simple cup of tea can change a community.
Mohammed Younis OBE has transformed early childhood education for Muslim communities in Peterborough and beyond. Since launching Little Stars Day Nursery in 2003, he has opened 15 inclusive settings, serving over 1,000 children annually and employing 170+ staff. His nurseries prioritise multilingual, culturally sensitive care with extended hours and tailored services. A tireless advocate, he chairs the local NDNA group, campaigns on funding and inequality, and has served on local authority groups to improve access for disadvantaged families. In 2023, he founded the not-for-profit Stars and Sparkles Foundation to further support vulnerable communities. Working alongside his local MP, Mohammed Younis actively lobbies for change in the Early Years sector and was awarded an OBE in 2023 in recognition of his fight for equity and equality in the field.
Professor Raheel Nawaz is Pro Vice-Chancellor at Staffordshire University and a global leader in AI and digital education. His innovative degree apprenticeship model has outperformed top UK universities—including Oxbridge—in graduate outcomes and influenced programmes worldwide from Canada to Spain, and Pakistan to New Zealand. A National Teaching Fellow and Principal Fellow of the Higher Education Academy, he has published over 200 research articles and secured £14M+ in grants. Nawaz has worked on criminal investigations, advised UK and international policymakers, including the Pakistani Prime Minister’s Task Force on Science and Technology, and worked with CERN and MIT on research for the Large Hadron Collider. A former Pakistani army officer turned academic; Nawaz is renowned for combining academic rigour with social impact.
The Olive Garden Nursery, founded in 2006 in Bolton, is a beacon of inclusive early years education. Serving a predominantly Muslim community, and dedicated to empowering all children, it combines Islamic values with the EYFS curriculum, achieving three consecutive OFSTED ‘Outstanding’ ratings. Nearly one-third of its 100+ children have additional needs, supported by expert staff and strong SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) partnerships. The nursery promotes inclusion through staff training, parent workshops, and food parcel initiatives. Awarded the Bolton Evening News Education Award and Inclusion Quality Mark in 2024, it exemplifies excellence in nurturing, education, and community cohesion. Its manager also served as an Ofsted inspector, reflecting its sector-wide influence.
Professor Dr Anusha Shah – Hailing from New Delhi and now based in the UK, is a pioneering civil engineer and climate resilience expert. As Senior Director at Arcadis and the 159th President of the Institution of Civil Engineers—the first person of colour and third woman to hold the role—she champions sustainability, innovation, and diversity. With over 30 years in engineering, Dr Shah has led transformative infrastructure projects and is a passionate advocate for climate action. Her presidency has inspired the next generation, especially women and minorities in STEM. She also holds visiting professorships at the University of Edinburgh and King’s College London. A vocal leader on environmental justice and social inclusion, she continues to shape the future of civil engineering through thought leadership and advocacy.
Professor Sir Bashir M. Al-hashimi is a pioneering computer engineer, academic leader, and Vice President for Research & Innovation at King’s College London. Globally recognised for innovations in mobile device technology, his research has impacted billions. The first foreign-born non-white member of the University of Southampton’s Executive Board, he has led major engineering faculties across Russell Group universities. A dedicated mentor, he’s supervised 52 PhD students and championed research links with the Middle East and Africa. His leadership helped shape national engineering policy and education through roles with REF panels and the Royal Academy of Engineering. Awarded a CBE in 2018 and knighted in 2025, his work bridges research, education, and entrepreneurship while inspiring the next generation of engineers.
Safa Alkateb is a tech entrepreneur and CEO of Autocab, now a subsidiary of Uber Technologies. After a successful engineering career in the US, including climbing the ranks at several NASDAQ-listed companies, and founding and selling a software startup to a $6 billion firm, he then transformed Autocab into a leading SaaS provider. A proud Muslim, he has consistently upheld his faith in competitive tech environments. In the US, he co-founded the Next Wave Muslim Initiative, and in the UK, established ELIF in Manchester to mentor aspiring Muslim professionals. His journey from immigrant engineer to global tech leader reflects his commitment to excellence, faith, and empowering the next generation of Muslims in the tech industry.
Professor Akber Datoo is a visionary legal technologist, entrepreneur, and academic transforming global financial services through the fusion of law and technology. A Cambridge-educated computer scientist and qualified lawyer, he founded D2 Legal Technology, advising banks, asset managers, and industry bodies on legal data transformation, digitisation, and regulatory compliance. His expertise is shaping the future of decentralised finance, AI regulation, and legal services innovation. Professor Datoo advises the UK Government, co-chairs the Law Society’s Technology & Law Committee, and teaches FinTech law at the University of Surrey. He mentors judges internationally and supports charities on AI for justice. A published author and Islamic poet, he brings intellect, faith, and service together in pursuit of a just and ethical future.
Holy Land Dates is a socially driven business founded in 2016 by a husband-and-wife team to promote Palestinian heritage through ethical trade. Inspired by a 2014 trip to Palestine, the company imports dates, oils, ceramics, and more from small-scale Palestinian producers, ensuring complete traceability and fair sourcing. Their motto, “support Palestine through trade and aid”, reflects a deep commitment to both economic empowerment and humanitarian relief. Half of their net profits go to supporting vulnerable children in Palestine and globally, with over $8 million raised to build 3 schools, an orphanage, and 3 paediatric intensive care units. Regular visits to Palestine foster strong relationships with local families and widows. Holy Land Dates exemplifies how business can preserve culture, create livelihoods, and drive global impact.
Sisters in Business (SIB), founded by Jennifer (Hanifa) Ogunyemi, is a trailblazing Community Interest Company empowering Muslim women in entrepreneurship. Sparked by her own experiences of business failure and the challenges of balancing faith, family, and ambition, Jennifer created a platform offering workshops, networking, and mentorship. Over the past six years, SIB has supported hundreds of women, championed mental health, and hosted award ceremonies that celebrate hijabi entrepreneurs and break stereotypes. With a dedicated team and inclusive ethos, SIB builds bridges across communities while promoting visibility and self-belief among Muslim women. Through practical support and inspirational events, Sisters in Business is not only fostering economic empowerment but also transforming perceptions of Muslim women in business across the UK and beyond.
Abdul Qadir, born in Yemen and moved to Liverpool at age 7, is a pioneering community leader whose lifelong service has transformed the lives of many in Liverpool and beyond. The UK’s first Yemeni councillor and its longest-serving, Abdul has championed equality, education, and local development for over five decades. He co-founded and supported numerous grassroots organisations and played a key role in revitalising Lodge Lane High Street into a vibrant, multicultural hub. He led efforts to secure school access for Muslim girls, protect transport rights for vulnerable families, and support residents during COVID-19—all while recovering from surgery. Abdul’s unwavering commitment, courage, and integrity have earned deep respect across communities. His legacy is one of humble, tireless service and lasting impact, making him a truly deserving recipient of this award.
Dr Faiza Shaheen is a renowned economist, author, and activist who has spent over 15 years championing economic justice, equality, and the rights of marginalised communities. Selected twice as Labour’s parliamentary candidate for Chingford and Woodford Green, her resilience in the face of political setbacks—including her 2024 deselection—demonstrates her unwavering integrity. Dr Shaheen has been a vocal advocate for Gaza, interfaith solidarity, and social justice in northeast London. Her influential work spans leading roles at Save the Children, CLASS, and NYU, and her book Know Your Place powerfully tackles systemic inequality. As a visiting professor at LSE and a respected media commentator, Dr Shaheen exemplifies good citizenship through tireless public service, courage, and a deep commitment to social progress.
Mayor Rokhsana Fiaz OBE, the UK’s first directly elected female mayor of Asian heritage, has transformed civic life in Newham—a borough with a significant Muslim population. Since 2018, she has championed inclusive growth, pioneering initiatives like Community Wealth Building and the UK’s first permanent citizens’ Assembly. Her leadership has improved social housing, youth services, and children’s welfare while embedding anti-poverty and health equity in council policy. During the pandemic, she launched sustained emergency support to address food and financial insecurity. Rokhsana’s innovative policies—such as the Employment Rights Hub and London’s first Living Wage neighbourhood—are now national models. Her visionary governance and commitment to justice, equality, and resident empowerment make her a standout candidate for the Good Citizenship Award.
Professor Sir Aziz Sheikh OBE is one of the UK’s foremost academic leaders in health equity and digital health. As Nuffield Professor and Head of Primary Care Health Sciences at the University of Oxford, his pioneering work has advanced health data integration, digital care, and policy reform. He led the world’s largest linked health dataset of 67 million people, shaping UK COVID-19 response strategies. A staunch advocate for underserved communities, he advises global bodies like WHO and the World Bank. Knighted in 2022 for services to pandemic research, he continues to mentor future medical leaders while driving systemic change. His dedication to tackling health disparities and improving care for marginalised groups, including Muslims, makes him a transformative force in global health.
Dr Basharat Hussain, a British Pakistani researcher, has made significant contributions to public health and social equity. His PhD research on equality and diversity initiatives in the NHS has shaped approaches to improving the experience of ethnic minority staff and patients. As lead author of a paper published in The Lancet, Dr Hussain’s work on vaccine hesitancy among minority ethnic communities is pivotal in addressing public health challenges. His ongoing research includes studies on food and health in diverse communities, as well as innovative projects like the development of a ‘Brain Health Tablet’ for older people. Dr Hussain’s deep cultural understanding and expertise make him a key figure in tackling health disparities in the UK’s ethnic minority populations, particularly the British Pakistani community.
Professor Shahina Pardhan OBE, the first female professor of optometry in 2001, is a pioneering figure in optometry and blindness prevention. She was recently awarded an OBE for her services to optometry and preventing blindness. Her research highlights the higher risk of blindness due to diabetes in South Asian and Afro-Caribbean communities and the importance of retinal screening. Professor Pardhan developed culturally appropriate training materials in 15 languages, engaging religious leaders and community champions to raise awareness across the UK and internationally. To date, her work has impacted over 168,000 people worldwide. A champion for gender equity, she leads Women in Vision UK and has received numerous awards, including the Asian Women of Achievement Award and a Lifetime Fellowship from the College of Optometrists.
Adama Juldeh Munu, a producer for TRT World’s Across The Balkans, focuses on the political, social, and cultural dynamics of the Balkans. Since joining in 2023, she has produced reports on issues like the Balkan response to the Gaza genocide and the Srebrenica Genocide, showcasing her commitment to cultural heritage and social justice. Adama’s work also highlights the intersection of the African diaspora and Islam, such as in her article on Malcolm X’s influence. She won ‘Journalist of the Year’ at the 2023 UK African and African-Caribbean Muslim Awards and was the first Black British Muslim woman in hijab to report from the field in Turkey. Previously, she worked on Africa This Week, covering complex issues affecting Africa and its diaspora.
Emb Hashmi is an award-winning journalist with over 11 years of experience across print, radio, and television. She is known for her impactful storytelling on underreported issues affecting marginalised communities. Notable work includes investigating domestic abuse among Muslim women, reporting on the hijab ban at the Paris Olympics, and exploring the cultural and health impacts of first-cousin marriages. Emb’s work on Sudanese refugees in Birmingham highlighted their resilience and contributions. Her reports have led to policy changes and increased support for domestic abuse services. Emb has received numerous accolades, including SHE Award Role Model of the Year and Journalist of the Year at the Pakistan Achievement Awards. She also launched the #BREAKTHEGLASS podcast, inspiring women worldwide.
Sakina Datoo is a seasoned journalist recognised for her fearless coverage of the Gaza genocide, challenging mainstream media bias. Since October 7, 2023, Sakina has been at the forefront of reporting the Palestinian story, ensuring fair and balanced coverage while upholding true journalistic ethics. She produces and presents various shows, including “Women of Resistance” and “Gaza Under Attack”, where she highlights the voices of women in Gaza and provides expert analysis. Sakina has worked with George Galloway’s channel, Press TV, and other platforms. She also serves on the Media Board of the Council of European Jamaats (CoEJ) and contributes to community initiatives. A former editor in Tanzania, Sakina has received the CNN African Journalist of the Year award and holds advanced degrees and certifications in journalism.
Cycle Sisters, founded in 2016, is the UK’s largest Muslim women’s grassroots cycling organisation, with over 1,500 members and 10 local groups. The organisation empowers Muslim women by breaking down barriers to physical activity and providing a culturally sensitive, supportive environment for cycling. Over 130 women have been trained as volunteer Ride Leaders, and more than 500 social rides have been hosted. Key initiatives like the Smiles and Miles challenge and the Tri Sisters project support Muslim women in cycling and triathlon participation. The organisation also advocates for inclusion, mental health, and neurodiversity while showcasing Islamic values such as environmental stewardship. With a focus on community-building, Cycle Sisters has transformed lives, with 92% of participants reporting improved health and increased confidence.
Lipa Nessa is a trailblazing sports activist, coach, and former semi-professional footballer from Bedford who advocates for inclusivity and diversity in sport, especially for Muslim women. After experiencing Islamophobic abuse during her playing career, she became a vocal advocate for underrepresented communities. Lipa serves on national sports boards and collaborates with charities to promote faith and gender equity in athletics. One of her most significant achievements is her collaboration with the Sweaty Betty Foundation to design a performance sports hijab, removing barriers for Muslim women in sport. Lipa coaches at KofaMK, mentors young women through Raising Her Game UK, and co-hosts the podcast I Think She’s Offside. In 2024, she won the inaugural Best Activist Award at the Girls Human Rights Awards.
Hafiz Mohammad Umar is a passionate advocate for people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). Since 2012, he has voluntarily led Disability Cricket in Luton, offering inclusive coaching at Luton Town & Indians Cricket Club. His dedication has enabled players to compete across the UK, including at prestigious venues such as Lord’s and Old Trafford. A qualified SENDCo, Mohammad also hosts SEND in the Community on Inspire FM, a weekly radio show that raises awareness about diverse SEND topics and features expert guests. His work challenges stigma, provides support to families, and highlights best practices from across the country. Through both sport and media, Mohammad empowers individuals with SEND, making a lasting impact in Luton and beyond.
Abdul Sattar Mahomed is a gifted nasheed artist and medical student from Leicester, using his talent to uplift others. At just 15, he released Mizab al Rahma, an 11-track trilingual album sold globally, raising over £10,000 for charity. He has since volunteered with LIA Relief Trust and Ramadan.FM, where his youth-focused show became the station’s most popular. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Abdul launched a free marketing company to support struggling businesses and helped house the homeless. Now pursuing medicine, he aims to provide free healthcare worldwide through his FreeMed initiative. Despite personal challenges, Abdul’s commitment to service, mentorship, and charity through art and action makes him an inspiring role model.
Cllr Atira-Rose Malik, 18, from Bradford, made history as the youngest South Asian girl elected to local office in England. A fierce community advocate, she serves independently, focused solely on youth needs. Co-founder of the charity Humanity Calling, Atira supports the homeless and vulnerable locally and abroad. She works closely with police to build youth trust and leads initiatives tackling sexual harassment, including a national railway safety campaign. A vocal advocate for youth opportunity, she gives motivational talks and leads interfaith iftar events. Despite bullying and learning difficulties, Atira’s resolve remains unshaken. Her story is one of perseverance: despite facing bullying for being a young woman in leadership, she has remained humble and committed to her beliefs, with great achievements in public service, activism, and grassroots leadership.
Dr Haris Kiani, born in Rawalpindi, Pakistan, and raised in Newham, East London, is a pioneering social entrepreneur, venture capitalist, and advocate for equity. The 24-year-old is the first in his family to attend university; he champions tech-for-good ventures, helping 12 student-led startups raise over £2 million. He founded Jaago, empowering 800+ women in Pakistan through microfinance, and has enabled 4,000 students to access faith-compliant education loans. Haris serves on boards, including the EY Foundation and Mayor’s Fund for London, raising over £750,000 for youth development. A Diana Award and Points of Light recipient, he also holds two honorary degrees. Through mentoring, investing, and advocacy, Haris is breaking systemic barriers and building inclusive futures.
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The Muslim News Awards for Excellence 2025: Introducing the Independent Panel of Judges
