Dr Nazia Khanum OBE receives special BCA Honours Award
Luton-based international human rights activist and equality champion Dr Nazia Khanum OBE has received a special BCA Honours Award in recognition of her work promoting equal opportunities and empowering communities.
The award was presented at the Bangladesh Caterers Association’s 19th annual Awards and Gala Dinner in London on Sunday, 1 November.
After beginning her career as a lecturer in Bangladesh, Dr Khanum moved to the UK and went on to hold senior equality and advisory roles across local government, health, education and community organisations.
She has founded seven community empowerment organisations and is also the founder director of Equality in Diversity, an international management, research and training consultancy.
Her work has focused on improving equal access to opportunities regardless of race, gender, disability, faith, sexuality or economic background. Her 36 local, national and international awards recognise her contribution to diversity, equity, women’s empowerment, education, climate justice and Bangladeshi heritage and culture.
She was the first BAME female Deputy Lieutenant in Bedfordshire in the 500-year history of the Lieutenancy.
The BCA Awards Committee Convener is celebrity chef Atik Rahman BEM, who said: “Dr Nazia Khanum’s career demonstrates the difference that sustained commitment to equality and human rights can make. Through her work in public services and the many organisations she has founded, she has helped widen opportunities and give communities a stronger voice. Her achievements are an inspiration, and we are delighted that this year’s BCA Honours Awards could recognise her contribution to a fairer and more inclusive society.”
The awards were presented during a sold-out gala dinner for around 1,000 guests at the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge hotel in London, bringing together leading figures from across the British Bangladeshi catering and hospitality industry.
The ceremony was presented by Ian Collins, the talkTV radio and television broadcaster, and Anila Dhami, the multi-award-winning news presenter and journalist who has worked with Sky News, ITV News and 5 News.
The BCA Awards magazine also featured messages of support for the association and the industry from King Charles III and Prime Minister Andy Burnham. The King’s message, sent from Buckingham Palace, praised the Awards and wished the event well, while the Prime Minister’s message congratulated those being recognised and acknowledged the contribution Bangladeshi hospitality businesses make to communities and the UK economy.
BCA President Oli Khan MBE said: “The talents and dedication of British curry restaurants are revered around the world. These awards are a celebration of excellence, recognising the quality, creativity and hard work that make our industry truly extraordinary.”
Tipu Rahman, Secretary General, said: “The BCA Awards recognise the restaurants whose commitment to quality, service and consistency keeps our industry moving forward. By celebrating outstanding businesses, we set a benchmark for excellence and encourage the next generation to build careers in hospitality.”
Faizul Haque, Treasurer, said: “Bangladeshi restaurants are an important part of the British economy. They create jobs, support local suppliers and high streets, and contribute to the wider hospitality and food supply sectors. The awards celebrate the entrepreneurial drive behind these businesses and the teams that make them successful. It is important that restaurants receive recognition and the support they need to remain sustainable.”
Naz Islam, Press and Publications Secretary, said: “For 66 years, the BCA has helped champion Bangladeshi cuisine and the people who have made it such an important part of Britain’s food culture. The awards give us a chance to share the stories behind our restaurants, celebrate their contribution to local communities and show how the industry continues to evolve while staying proud of its heritage.”
The Bangladesh Caterers Association was set up in 1960 and represents 12,000 restaurateurs across the UK. For more details on the association visit www.bca1960.com