Yorkshire’s brightest business and community minds came together at Bradford Park Avenue on Monday 26 September for an inspiring evening celebrating the achievements, resilience and impact of the region’s Asian community.
The event, Yorkshire’s Best, organised by Saleem Kader, founder of the Bombay Stores Group, and Sonny Ali of Fairmount Properties, brought together a host of community leaders, professionals, and entrepreneurs from across the city.
The gathering aimed to highlight how Yorkshire’s South Asian community has helped shape modern Britain and continues to play a vital role in the region’s economic and cultural growth.
According to the organisers, while around 8.6% of the UK population is of Asian heritage, in Bradford that figure rises dramatically to 32.1%. Nationally, Asian-owned businesses contribute an estimated £74 billion annually to the UK economy, a testament, they said, to the entrepreneurial drive and professional excellence that thrives within the community.
“This is a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit and professional excellence within our community, especially here in West Yorkshire,” said the organisers. “We encourage everyone to join us, share in these discussions, and celebrate our shared achievements. Your presence helps strengthen our collective voice and future.”
The event featured a series of powerful speeches and panel discussions. Among the speakers were Gill Arnold MBE JP DL, who spoke about the work of the Yorkshire Champions Group; the Bradford Bronte rotary club, who introduced rotary to the audience, Saliyah Siddique, a social worker and entrepreneur; Naz Hussain, former RAF serviceman; Humayun Islam and Shadmaan Kader of Suits You Media.
Organiser Sonny Ali, also spoke, recalling the strong role women have played in his life, with a special tribute to his wife and to one of the leading pioneer’s of the Bombay Stores brand the late Maryam Kader (Saleem’s mother).
In a keynote address, Saleem Kader delivered a passionate speech on identity, belonging, and the need for greater representation.
He spoke candidly about how “stories of migrant families across communities need to be told now more than ever” and warned that in today’s divisive political climate, “our voices are too often missing”.
Saleem emphasised that cities like Bradford, Manchester, Birmingham and London are proof that integration works when communities interact, learn, and grow together. Yet, he added, there are still parts of the UK where “negative media headlines shape perceptions without the balance of lived experience.”
He called for stronger community representation through the appointment of community ambassadors, individuals who would promote and protect the interests of their communities while celebrating professional and social success.
“Entrepreneurs and professionals from ethnic minorities have proven they are the fibre of this nation,” he said. “We should no longer have to answer the question of why we are here. It’s time we take greater control of our narrative.”
The theme of inclusivity ran throughout his address. While the focus was on immigrant and ethnic minority voices, Kader was clear that the wider vision was one of unity, not division.
“This is not just about immigrants or ethnic minorities alone. Every community, every background, every individual who calls this country home has a part to play. By lifting up those who have been left out, we strengthen society as a whole.”
He also reflected on his 46 years in business, noting his involvement with several civic and charitable organisations, including Bradford Matters, Bradford Breakthrough and the Bradford Brontë Rotary Club, where he is the current President.
“Through all these experiences, one lesson stands out,” he said. “We are blessed with so many gifts, but we must use them to help others.”
Kader highlighted the many achievements of Yorkshire’s South Asian community, from national restaurant chains and manufacturers to property developers, educators, doctors, and politicians. Many, he noted, have been honoured with MBEs, OBEs, knighthoods, and lordships, achievements their parents could scarcely have imagined.
Looking ahead, he called for the creation of stronger networks and media campaigns to celebrate community ambassadors and inspire younger generations.
“Imagine a future where every child in Yorkshire, whatever their background, grows up knowing they belong, knowing their potential, and knowing their story matters,” he concluded. “That is the Yorkshire we can build together.”
The evening closed with a call to action for attendees to become ambassadors within their own circles, to share stories, mentor others, and ensure that the contributions of Bradford’s vibrant and diverse communities continue to be recognised and celebrated.
