Asian Achievers Awards 2024: PM Keir Starmer congratulates winners
The 22nd Asian Achievers Awards welcomed over 500 guests from various parts of the world to recognise the contributions of prominent South Asians in the UK.
Hosted by former Eastenders actor Nitin Ganatra and ITV newsreader Anila Dhami, the event, held on Friday, highlighted notable achievements within the British Asian community. Prime Minister Keir Starmer also extended his congratulations to the winners, acknowledging their achievements.
Amongst the night’s winners were fusion sound duo Abi Sampa and Rushil Ranjan, Leicester City footballer Hamza Choudhury, GP specialising in women’s health Dr Nighat Arif, the founder of the Indian street food chain Chaiiwalas, and the founder of the largest distributor of car parts in Europe Sukhpal Singh Ahluwalia.
For his over 50 years in public service, the Lifetime Achievement Award went to former Member of Parliament Virendra Sharma.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said: “British Asians are a driving force behind much of the social, cultural and economic innovation we see in Britain today. You represent so many of the values that help our communities thrive — ambition, hard work and inclusivity, to name just a few. This is why it is wonderful to see so many British Asian change-makers being recognised tonight by the team at EPG.”
Boxer Amir Khan was awarded a Special Award for Philanthropy and said: “It’s a privilege to be recognised for the work I’ve always felt deeply passionate about. The real champions are those working every day to improve the lives of others, and I’m proud to play my part in that. This award is recognition for all those who have supported my foundation in the last decade and the brilliant team who work tirelessly on the ground.”
Organiser of the Awards, Pratik Dattani, said: “The British Asian community adds so much to Britain today. Tonight was a testament to the longevity of our Awards – after 22 years, they still matter and they still are able to unearth the most exceptional people from across the country.”
Host Ganatra said: “Every year I come to these Awards and am impressed by the standard of nominations and the quality of the shortlist. Just look back at the last two decades of winners and you’ll see the event has tracked the growth of our community for more than a generation.”
Full List of Asian Achievers Awards 2024 Winners
Special Award for Philanthropy
Amir Khan
Art and Culture Award
Abi Sampa and Rushil Ranjan
Business Person of the Year
Sukhpal Singh Ahluwalia
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Community Service Award
Iftikhar Chaudhri
Entrepreneur of the Year
Muhammad Ibrahim (Chaiiwala)
Lifetime Achievement Award
Virendra Sharma
Media Person of the Year Award
Tasnim Nasser
Professional of the Year
Dr Kesar Singh Sadhra
Sports Personality of the Year
Hamza Choudhury
Woman of the Year
Dr Nighat Arif
Special Award for Entrepreneurship
Irshad Akhtar
Special Award for Young Business Person of the Year
Krishan and Shyam Sedani
Special Award for International Business Person of the Year
Bipen Sharma
Special Award for Professional Impact
Navita Yadav
