Cameron recognises the best of British Muslim achievement

Earlier this week, Prime Minister David Cameron joined an audience of over 800 people at London’s Grosvenor House Hotel to celebrate The Muslim News Awards for Excellence - Britain's longest standing Muslim awards event. Now in its twelfth year, the coveted award ceremony recognises the very best of Muslim contribution to British society.

The Prime Minister presented the Enterprise award to Shabir Randeree, Executive Chairman of DCD Group, and said:

I’m delighted to have taken part in this year’s Muslim News Awards for Excellence, where we were able to champion and celebrate the huge contribution British Muslims make to our country. “

He added:

I see for myself on a daily basis the massive contribution of British Muslims. From my own colleagues, such as Sayeeda Warsi, Sajid Javid and Tariq Ahmad on the Government benches to the Muslim businesses and enterprises that are bringing growth back to Britain. And of course I frequently see the outstanding achievements of Muslim sportsmen and women, public servants, entertainers and community leaders. The list goes on and on. Tonight we celebrate an entire community – one that is vibrant, hard-working and proud.”

Amongst the other 15 winners were Olympic gold medallist Mo Farah, in the sports category, who is also involved in various philanthropic initiatives. A special children’s award went to 10-year-old, Ahmed Saleh, who has won numerous kickboxing and freestyle karate titles at national, European, and global levels.

Special guests included Attorney General, Dominic Grieve, Shadow Justice Secretary, Sadiq Khan, Minister of State at Ministry of Justice, Simon Hughes. They were joined by civic and religious leaders, as well as representatives from the worlds of politics, business, sport and the arts, to honour unsung heroes and heroines of the community.

The Editor of The Muslim News, Ahmed J Versi, said,

We began this event twelve years ago because we wanted to acknowledge the noble accomplishments and displays of distinction within the British Muslim community and showcase the tremendous contributions British Muslims make to Britain. We wanted also to identify and highlight Muslim role models for the younger generation.”

In a message, Opposition Leader Ed Miliband, said:

Tonight’s awards ceremony is an opportunity to celebrate the great talent shown and contribution given by Muslim people in all walks of life. The awards recognise not only excellence in business, sport, arts and technology, but also those who have served their communities selflessly. It is a true celebration of values core to our country – of community and commitment, of education and learning.”

OBV want to congratulate all the nominees and winners of the Muslim News Awards for demonstrating a tireless commitment to excellence in their specific field and for their positive contribution to society.

For a full list of winners, please click here

Francine Fernandes