Elham Asaad Buaras
Over 30 prominent members of the Muslim community have been recognised in the New Year Honours, highlighting their significant contributions across diverse fields. This distinguished group, comprising 22 men and 12 women from across the UK, represents a wide spectrum of achievements. Their work spans leadership in public service, groundbreaking contributions to education and research, dedication to community well-being, excellence in the arts, and efforts to promote equality, diversity, and inclusion.
Among this year’s most discussed honourees is Sadiq Khan, Mayor of London, whose knighthood for his contributions to politics and public service drew criticism from the Tories and other critics.
Khan, the first Mayor of London to secure a historic third term, has been a transformative but polarising figure. Critics have voiced strong opposition to the honour. Shadow Home Secretary, Chris Philp, highlighted concerns about rising knife crime, an ongoing housing crisis, and a 70% increase in council tax during Khan’s tenure. “They will rightly be furious his track record of failure is being rewarded,” Philp remarked. Earlier this year, a petition opposing his knighthood garnered over 200,000 signatures, reflecting the divided opinions on his leadership.
However, his Labour peers rallied behind Khan. David Lammy, Foreign Secretary, highlighted his journey as an example of Britain’s inclusivity. “His journey from the son of a bus driver to a knight of the realm showcases the possibilities Britain offers,” Lammy said. Dawn Butler, MP for Brent East, praised his transformative impact on London and his historic achievements, describing him as “an inspiration to us all.”
Supporters highlight Khan’s efforts to make London greener, fairer, and more inclusive. Since his 2016 election, he has launched initiatives like the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ), credited with cutting central London’s air pollution by nearly half, and introduced free school meals for all state primary school children during tough economic times.
Khan has also overseen major changes in infrastructure and services. The Elizabeth Line transformed city transport, the Hopper fare reduced travel costs, and the Night Tube improved late-night safety. In housing, his leadership delivered the most council homes since the 1970s and record housing completions since the 1930s.
Khan’s influence extends beyond London, earning him recognition on the global stage. As Co-Chair of the C40 Cities network, he has championed climate action and social justice, drawing praise from leaders around the world. Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr, the Mayor of Freetown, described Khan as an inspiration for mayors globally, while Eduardo Paes, the Mayor of Rio de Janeiro, commended his leadership in pushing cities toward greener and fairer futures. Anne Hidalgo, the Mayor of Paris, called his efforts “a source of inspiration for mayors worldwide.”
In response to his knighthood, Khan expressed gratitude and reflected on his journey. “I couldn’t have dreamed as a child growing up on a council estate in south London that I’d become Mayor of London,” he said. “Serving the city I love is the honour of my life. I’ll continue building a fairer, safer, greener, and more prosperous London for all communities.”
Professor Bashir Mohammed Ali AL-HASHIMI CBE FREng FRS, Vice-President (Research and Innovation), King’s College London is to be knighted for services to Engineering and Education (London, Greater London)
Professor Bashir Mohammed Ali Al-Hashimi, Vice President for Research and Innovation at King’s College London, has been knighted in recognition of his extraordinary contributions to engineering and education. With over three decades of groundbreaking research in energy-efficient computing and semiconductor chip design, Sir Bashir has made a lasting global impact in digital electronics. His work includes innovations that have directly contributed to the development of modern smartphones, transforming the way people interact with technology daily.
Reflecting on the honour, Sir Bashir told The Muslim News: “I felt proud knowing that my technical achievements, academic leadership, and public service had been recognized. I was also grateful to those who supported me with guidance, collaboration, mentorship, and friendship along the way, and particularly my family.”
Throughout his career, Sir Bashir has made seminal contributions to energy-efficient hardware and software technologies, as well as advancements in semiconductor chip design. His pioneering research in test data compression and low-power methods for system-on-chip devices has set benchmarks in the field. He explained the philosophy behind his work:
“My research generates new knowledge and insights and applies them to benefit humanity. Currently, and in the future, my work focuses on advancing the science and engineering of digital electronic devices that impact every aspect of our lives, enhancing natural intelligence. Emerging technologies will have a profound impact on how university education is delivered. I am committed to contributing to the leadership and development of future engineering skills in the era of artificial intelligence and sustainable energy.”
For young Muslims aspiring to pursue engineering careers, Sir Bashir offered words of encouragement and guidance: “Engineering is about creativity and innovation. It’s about making a meaningful difference, contributing to humanity’s progress, and addressing some of society’s biggest challenges—such as climate change and the aging population. It fosters teamwork, collaboration, and problem-solving. Engineering also offers a rewarding career with opportunities for continuous learning, personal growth, and job security. If you are passionate about shaping the future and solving real-world problems, then studying engineering at university is the right choice for you.”
Professor Shahina Pardhan, Founding Director, Vision and Eye Research Institute, Anglia Ruskin University. Is to be made an OBE for her services to Optometry and Preventing Blindness (Cambridge, Cambridgeshire)
Professor Shahina Pardhan, Director of ARU’s Vision and Eye Research Institute, has been honoured with an OBE for her remarkable contributions to optometry and her tireless efforts to prevent blindness worldwide. She has published over 200 research papers on key issues like diabetic retinopathy, low vision, and ageing. Reflecting on the OBE, Professor Pardhan said, “I am surprised, humbled, and profoundly honoured to receive this honour. My passion is to reduce the risk and impact of blindness. This honour only strengthens my commitment to continue with this work.”
Mohammed Younis Chaudhry, CEO of Regal Food Products Group Plc, has been awarded an MBE for his outstanding contributions to business and the community of Bradford. Younis, who has built one of the UK’s most successful food enterprises, expressed his gratitude to The Muslim News, saying:
“When I started in business over twenty years ago, nothing would have prepared me for the journey I have been on, both in business and in life. The community where I live and where I have built my business is everything to me, and I am humbled to be a part of it.”
Younis is the driving force behind Regal Food Products Group Plc, home to renowned brands such as Regal Bakery, Yorkshire Baking Company, Just Desserts Yorkshire, and Love Handmade Cakes. Over the years, he has not only expanded his business empire but has also actively contributed to the community. His initiatives include supporting local sports clubs, feeding those in need, and collaborating with international charities to make a difference globally. In addition to his business success, Younis was recently recognised as one of The LDC Top 50 Most Ambitious Business Leaders for 2024 in partnership with The Times.
Imtiaz Dharker, poet, artist, and video filmmaker is to be made an OBE for services to the arts.
Renowned poet, artist, and filmmaker Imtiaz Dharker has been awarded an OBE in the 2025 New Year’s Honours List for her contributions to the Arts.
Reacting to the honour, Dharker said, “This came as a real surprise, and I’m happy to accept it as an honour for poets and poetry in this country. At a time when discourse, especially political discourse, is devalued globally, poetry plays a powerful role. Here, it’s a national language—the language of being human, whatever tongue it is in.”
Dharker, author of seven poetry collections with Bloodaxe Books, including Shadow Reader, is also an accomplished artist whose illustrations accompany her work. She was awarded the Queen’s Gold Medal for Poetry in 2014 and serves as Chancellor of Newcastle University. Born in a Muslim Calvinist Lahori household in Glasgow, Dharker’s life bridges cultures—adopted by India, married into Wales, and now based in London.
Her poetry, featured on the GCSE and A Level syllabus, tackles themes like social justice, freedom, and gender. A sought-after speaker at literary festivals, she inspires over 35,000 students annually at GCSE Poetry Live! events. As an artist, she has held exhibitions worldwide, and as a filmmaker, she directs NGO documentaries addressing education and health in India.
Asma Pandor, Lead Admiral Nurse, Dementia UK, Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, is to receive a BEM for her services to Nursing.
In healthcare, Admiral Nurse Asma Pandor has been awarded the BEM for her exceptional contributions to nursing and dementia care. Asma expressed to The Muslim News: “Being recognised in this way is a great honour. Everything I have accomplished in my career reflects the remarkable patients, families, and colleagues I’ve had the privilege to work with.”
Ahsan Zameer Rafeeq, Deputy Head of International Marketing at the Department for Business and Trade, has been honoured with an MBE for his contributions to investment and marketing, which have had a transformative impact on the UK economy.
Ahsan spearheaded an award-winning inward investment lead generation campaign, which showcased the UK as a premier destination for foreign direct investment. This groundbreaking campaign delivered measurable results, generating over £524 million in inward investment and creating or safeguarding 4,056 jobs across the UK. His efforts spanned every industrial sector and geographic market, reinforcing the UK’s position as a world-leading trading partner and investment hub.
Ahsan’s campaign also received international recognition, winning the ‘Best B2B Lead Generation Campaign’ at the LinkedIn Marketing Awards 2019. This accolade highlights his entrepreneurial spirit, innovative leadership, and ability to deliver tangible value through strategic marketing initiatives.
Reflecting on the honour, Ahsan said to The Muslim News: “I am deeply humbled and grateful for this recognition. This award is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and collaboration of an exceptional team.”
Fazilet Hadi, Head of Policy, Disability Rights UK is to receive an MBE for her services to Promoting the Interests of Disabled People.
Fazilet Hadi, Head of Policy at Disability Rights UK, is to be awarded an MBE in recognition of her lifelong dedication to championing the rights and interests of Disabled people. Beginning her career as a solicitor, Fazilet applied her legal expertise to challenge systemic barriers and discrimination, working at community law centres in Birmingham and Brighton before becoming Head of Equalities at Lewisham Council in 1990.
In 1997, she joined the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) as Director of Policy, where she served for 21 years, rising to the position of Deputy Chief Executive. During her tenure, she played a key role in shaping national policies for blind and visually impaired individuals.
Since 2020, Fazilet has served as Head of Policy at Disability Rights UK (DR UK), leading on strategic policy development and amplifying the voices of Disabled people at the highest levels of decision-making. Alongside this role, she is a Non-Executive Director at Cambridgeshire Community Services NHS Trust and has held board positions with national charities, including NCVO.
Fazilet’s work at DR UK focuses on tackling inequality and ensuring Disabled people are central to shaping policies that affect their lives. Her advocacy includes campaigning for stronger disability rights legislation and addressing the disproportionate impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Disabled people.
In a statement to The Muslim News, Fazilet said, “Society and its institutions have a long way to go to fully include Disabled people, and it is a privilege to play a small part in the fight for equality and justice. Disabled people make contributions to family, community, and society every day, but our efforts are rarely acknowledged. Instead, we are often portrayed as victims, passive recipients, and sometimes even as skivers… I’d like more Disabled people to be recognised and for a much higher priority to be given to disability inclusion.”
This year, over 1,200 individuals received honours in the New Year Honours list. Among the recipients, 34 Muslims were recognised, including 2 Knights Bachelor (KBEs), 4 Commanders of the Order of the British Empire (CBEs), 8 Officers of the Order of the British Empire (OBEs), 10 Members of the Order of the British Empire (MBEs), and 10 British Empire Medals (BEMs). Also included are 34 members of the Jewish community, who were awarded various honours, such as 1 Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE), 3 Knights (Kts), 8 CBEs, 10 OBEs, 11 MBEs, and 1 BEM. Additionally, 31 individuals from the Hindu and Sikh communities were recognised, receiving honours that include 5 CBEs, 12 OBEs, 8 MBEs, and 6 BEMs.
Knighthoods – Knight Bachelor
Professor Bashir Mohammed Ali Al-Hashimi CBE FREng FRS, Vice-President (Research and Innovation), King’s College London. For services to Engineering and Education (London, Greater London)
The Rt. Hon. Sadiq Khan, Mayor of London. For Political and Public Service (London, Greater London)
Commanders of the Order of the British Empire
Dr Jalal Bagherli, Co-Chair, Semiconductor Advisor Panel. For services to the Semiconductor Sector (Woking, Surrey)
Dr Fazal Dad, Principal and Chief Executive Officer, Blackburn College, Lancashire. For services to Further Education (Dudley, West Midlands)
Her Honour Sehba Haroon Storey, Lately Principal Judge, Asylum Support Tribunal. For services to Diversity and Inclusion (Whyteleafe, Surrey)
Professor Rahim Tafazolli FREng, Regius Professor, University of Surrey. For services to International Mobile Communications Research (Surrey)
Officers of the Order of the British Empire
Professor Safa Taha Al-Sarraj, Head of Clinical Neuropathology, King’s College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust. For services to medicine, particularly (London, Greater London)
Hina Bokhari, Co-Founder, Naz Legacy Foundation. For services to Young People, Charity, and Inter-Faith Relations (London, Greater London)
Imtiaz Dharker, poet, artist, and video filmmaker. For services to the arts (London, Greater London)
Sarwat Tasneem Ebbett, Behavioural Change Consultant, Thrive Foundation, and Volunteer. For services to Faith and Integration (Oxford, Oxfordshire)
Abdul Karim Fatehi MBE, Chief Executive Officer, United Corporation. For services to International Trade (Purley, Surrey)
Ubaid-ul Rehman, Senior Diversity and Inclusion Advisor, College of Policing and Co-Founder, Imaan, and Chair, Goslings Badminton Club. For services to equality in the LGBTQ+ community (Watford, Hertfordshire)
Professor Zaheer Raza Yousef, Consultant Cardiologist, University Hospital of Wales. For services to the treatment of heart failure (Penarth, South Glamorgan)
Professor Shahina Pardhan, Founding Director, Vision and Eye Research Institute, Anglia Ruskin University. For services to Optometry and Preventing Blindness (Cambridge, Cambridgeshire)
Members of the Order of the British Empire
Usman Ali, Social Mobility Ambassador, Ministry of Justice, Multi-Agency Public Protection Arrangement, HM Prison and Probation Service. For services to the Public and Civil Service (Bradford, West Yorkshire)
Shagufta Parveen Asam, Foster Carer, London Borough of Redbridge. For services to Foster Care (London, Greater London)
Moawia Bin-Sufyan JP FRSA, for services to community cohesion and interfaith relations in South Wales (South Glamorgan)
Mohammed Younis Chaudhry, Owner and Founder, Regal Food Products Plc. For services to business and the community in Bradford (Bradford, West Yorkshire)
Fazilet Hadi, Head of Policy, Disability Rights UK. For services to Promoting the Interests of Disabled People (Letchworth, Hertfordshire)
Rabiyah Kauser Latif, Near Neighbours Coordinator, Thrive Together Birmingham. For services to Faith and Community Cohesion (Walsall, West Midlands)
Ahsan Zameer Rafeeq, Deputy Head, International Marketing, Department for Business and Trade. For services to Investment and Marketing (London)
Ishaque Benny Aslam Rafiqi, Founder, Let’s Feed Brum and Tabor House. For services to Tackling Homelessness and the Community in Birmingham and West Midlands (Bromsgrove, Worcestershire)
Salma Bibi Ravat, Chief Executive Officer, One Roof Leicester. For services to Tackling Homelessness (Leicester, Leicestershire)
Imran Hussain Shah, Chair, Police Independent Advisor Group and Community Leader, West Yorkshire Police. For services to Policing and the Community in West Yorkshire (Leeds, West Yorkshire)
Medal of the Order of the British Empire
Aisha Younis Abdus Samad, Short Breaks Carer, Slough Children First, Berkshire. For services to children and young people with SEND (Slough, Berkshire)
Kamran Ishaq Abdus Samad, Short Breaks Carer, Slough Children First, Berkshire. For services to children and young people with SEND (Slough, Berkshire)
Mirza Khudadad Ahmed, Immigration Officer, Home Office. For Public Service (Birmingham, West Midlands)
Nazim Ali, Founder, Creating Smiles Hospital Gifts Initiative. For services to charity and to homeless and vulnerable people in Bradford, West Yorkshire (Bradford, West Yorkshire)
Abdulai-Olaniyi Balogun, Cleaning Operative, House of Commons. For services to Parliament (London, Greater London)
Mohammad Fayyaz, Councillor, Chesham Town Council and Buckinghamshire Council. For services to the community in Chesham (Chesham, Buckinghamshire)
Alaa Mohammed Ali Habbooby, Owner, Café Noir. For services to the community in Thames Ditton, Surrey (London, Greater London)
Safeena Karen Mohammed, Foster Carer, Warwickshire County Council. For services to Foster Care (Coventry, Warwickshire)
Asma Pandor, Lead Admiral Nurse, Dementia UK, Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. For services to Nursing (Gloucester, Gloucestershire)
Kasim Mohamed Sharifi, Foster Carer, Warwickshire County Council. For services to Foster Care (Coventry, Warwickshire)
