Press release: OBV shadow given MBE honour for community work

This news follows in the success of the OBV shadowing schemes garnering a nomination in the 2008 Channel Four/ Hansard Society Political Awards for a second consecutive year. The schemes have previously received several nominations, as well as an award from the Local Government Association in 2006.

Mahroof is a councillor in Rotherham, South Yorkshire having been elected in 2002, one year after taking part in the OBV MP Shadowing scheme.

OBV has run over ten mentoring programmes since 1999 to encourage and inspire individuals to shadow mentors, and seek elected office or public appointment. Recent schemes have been supported by the Electoral Commission, Liverpool City Council and the National Assembly for Wales.

Simon Woolley, OBV Director stated: Mahroof is more than a credit to the Muslim community, the Labour party and Operation Black Vote, he is a politician of integrity in which all society can be proud of. I expect big things from this young man in 2008.

Ashok Viswanathan, OBV Assistant Director stated: This scheme nurtures the next generation of Black politicians. They are informed, encouraged and inspired to be decision makers that do democracy and Black communities proud.