UK: Ceremony honors contribution of British Muslims

UK: Ceremony honors contribution of British Muslims


From the worlds of politics, business, sport and the arts, Britain's unsung Muslim heroes and heroines were honored and celebrated at a ceremony that recognizes the very best of Muslim contribution to the British society.


"This Awards ceremony is about recognizing those individuals who aspire to attain their very best as members of our society," Ahmed J Versi, editor of The Muslim News said at the ceremony of the annual Muslim News Awards for Excellence on Monday, March 31.


Winners of the annual awards, presented by the monthly Muslim newspaper, were announced in a massive celebration and gala dinner in central London.


The shortlist and later the winners of are chosen by a panel of independent judges drawn from Britain's Muslim community to reflect a cross-section of opinion and experience.


After pruning back scores of nominations, the panel reaches the winners list for the awards presented in 15 different categories.


The annual ceremony is celebrating its ninth year.


Shadow justice secretary Dominic Grieve, Liberal Democrat leader Nick Clegg, Home Secretary Jacqui Smith and Communities Secretary Hazel Blears were among more than 800 people invited to the event.


"The Muslim News Awards are an important opportunity for us all to recognize and show our appreciation for the valuable contribution that British Muslims make to our shared society," Smith said in the ceremony.


Clegg said that the awards provide an opportunity to acknowledge the many successful achievements of British Muslims.


"They also encourage us to reflect upon the valuable social, cultural, and economic contribution made by the Muslim community in the UK."


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Source: Islam Online (English)

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