The 22nd Asian Achievers Awards celebrated the contributions of prominent South Asians in the UK, attracting over 500 guests. Hosted by former EastEnders star Nitin Ganatra and ITV newsreader Anila Dhami, the event highlighted the exceptional achievements within the British Asian community.
Winners included fusion sound duo Abi Sampa and Rushil Ranjan, Leicester City footballer Hamza Choudhury, GP specialising in women’s health Dr Nighat Arif, Chaiiwalas founder, and the largest distributor of car parts in Europe, Sukhpal Singh Ahluwalia. Former MP Virendra Sharma received the Lifetime Achievement Award for over 50 years of public service.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer acknowledged the impact of British Asians on social and economic innovation, while former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak congratulated the winners. Boxer Amir Khan was honoured with a Special Award for Philanthropy, expressing pride in his foundation's work.
Organiser Pratik Dattani emphasised the British Asian community's significant contributions to the UK, and host Ganatra noted the event's enduring legacy. The evening featured performances by Juggy D and comedian Ahir Shah and was supported by various sponsors, including Andaria, Aries Global, and the State Bank of India, along with media partners Asian Voice, Gujarat Samachar and LycaRadio.
Full list of winners:
Special Award for Philanthropy: Amir Khan
Art and Culture Award: Abi Sampa and Rushil Ranjan
Business Person of the Year: Sukhpal Singh Ahluwalia
Community Service Award: Iftikhar Chaudhri
Entrepreneur of the Year: Muhammad Ibrahim (Chaiiwala)
Lifetime Achievement Award: Virendra Sharma
Media Person of the Year Award: Tasnim Nazeer
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
