Prominent British Bangladeshi leaders honoured for their contributions

Image by Northampton Chronicle
A newly formed group of British Bangladeshi business leaders in Northampton teamed up with the Mayor of Northampton to honour 20 people from across the country who have made immense contributions to their local communities.
The event was held in the Mayor’s Parlour at The Guildhall on Thursday, September 1, and was the inaugural gathering of the Northampton British Bangladeshi Business Chamber with Councillor Dennis Meredith presenting the awards. The group was founded “to give members access to collective bargaining power and a wide knowledge base”, according to the Northampton Chronicle.
The remarkable achievements of 20 British Bangladeshis from across the UK were celebrated at the ceremony who have made a mark in several fields including police officers, TV news presenters, councillors and entrepreneurs.
Naz Islam chairman of NBBBC said, “British Bangladeshis have broken down boundaries to achieve so much over the past 50 years in Northampton and we all look forward to seeing what the next generation can achieve on the back of the success of the pioneers we have celebrated today.
“Their achievements show that with hard work and determination, anything is possible. Together we can do so much more, and the NBBBC gives members the chance to be part of something truly special.
“The cost-of-living crisis is being felt ever more keenly by all of us – with gas and electricity prices set to rise further this winter and food and drink costs spiralling. By teaming up we can help minimise the impact of these increases on our businesses, with collective bulk-buying deals, cheaper energy prices and access to vital information, advice and guidance from experienced professionals.”
Northampton British Bangladeshi Business Chamber aims to provide a platform for British Bangladeshi business owners to grow and get recognition for their contribution, furthermore inspiring future generations and enhancing the community.
Councillor Dennis Meredith said, “The impact of the British Bangladeshi community here in Northampton is notable – with countless successful businesses now established in the town. This is a perfect opportunity to celebrate the achievements of some of the community’s most influential leaders.”
Full list of community leaders who received the recognition:
Dr Sanawar Chaudhury – Philanthropist and international businessman, Chairman of Luton Shahjalal Mosque Dr Zaki Rezwana Anwar – Medical Doctor, TV newscaster and columnist Mohammed Abdul Rouf – Community activist and entrepreneur, trustee of Northampton Bangladeshi Association Muzahid Khan DL – Community activist, entrepreneur Abul Kalam – Community activist, Chairman of St James Mosque, Northampton Shabbir Choudhury – Philanthropist and international businessman Dr Misbur Rahman – Community leader and entrepreneur, Chairman of Desh Foundation UK Mokon Khan – Community activist, Chairman of Northampton Bangladeshi Mosque Raza Miah – Philanthropist and entrepreneur, Chairman of Barik Miah Investment Professor Dr Rois Ali – Businessman, entrepreneur, former Coventry City Council councillor and founder of Master Chef Promotions Nahar Begum – Community activist, Former Northampton Borough Council Councillor Fattah Foysol – Community activist, chief reporter for Northampton NTV Eyusuf Chaudhury – Community activist, Chairman of Corby Mosque and Corby Bangladeshi Association Rafat Khan – Community leader and co-founder of Conservative Friends of Bangladesh Shamim Chowdhury – Community activist and Chief Northampton Reporter for Channel S Jomil Hussein Ahmed – Northamptonshire Police Hasna Begum Hoque – Northampton Bangladeshi Association Centre Manager and Advice and Guidance Officer Muhammed Shokot Ali – Businessman and community activist Mohammed Ali – Community activist, entrepreneur, international celebrity chef. Founder of International Master Chef Awards