More than 1,200 trailblazers from the worlds of sport, business, entertainment, and politics are being celebrated in this year’s New Year Honours list. But beyond the familiar faces, the list also salutes the extraordinary, everyday heroes – the tireless champions of local communities, charities, education, and healthcare.
This year, Bradford’s South Asian community takes centre stage, with several of its finest recognised for their incredible contributions.
Nazim Ali: A Force for Good
Leading the charge is Nazim Ali, whose unwavering commitment to charity and humanitarian work, both at home and abroad has earned him the British Empire Medal (BEM). Over the past 12 years, Nazim has raised nearly £950,000, inching closer to the remarkable milestone of £1 million through his Nazim Ali Foundation.
One of his standout projects, the Khidma Community Kitchen at the Millan Centre in Manningham, has been a beacon of hope for many. Since launching in February 2024, the initiative – supported by Saveco Cash & Carry has served over 3,000 hearty two-course meals to those in need across Bradford, embracing people of all backgrounds and faiths.
Nazim’s compassion doesn’t stop there. Through the Creating Smiles Gifts Initiative, he has personally delivered gifts to children in local hospitals, bringing joy to young patients at Bradford Royal Infirmary and Airedale Hospital during 42 heartfelt visits.
On receiving his BEM, Nazim said:
“I am immensely grateful to everyone who has supported me over the years, especially my long-term sponsor, Haji Shiraz Ahmed (CEO of Saveco Bradford). This honour belongs to our community.”
The honours continue for those shaping Bradford’s future.
Mohammed Osman Khan, Assistant Chief Constable at West Yorkshire Police, receives the King’s Police Medal (KPM), recognising his 24 years of exemplary service across counter-terrorism, serious crime, and public order. A proud Bradfordian, ACC Khan has been a pillar of leadership in the region.
From Bakery to Empire
Business visionary Mohammed Younis Chaudhry, founder of Regal Foods, is also honoured with an MBE. From humble beginnings in a family bakery, he transformed Regal Foods into a global powerhouse – one of the world’s largest food and drink exporters.
Dedication to Public Service
Usman Ali, a champion of rehabilitation and inclusion at HM Prison and Probation Service, is awarded an MBE for his public service. Usman’s dual role as a Disability Champion and Multi-Agency Public Protection Arrangements Administrator exemplifies his unwavering dedication to justice and equality.
A Royal Salute to Community Heroes
The New Year Honours are bestowed by the King, following recommendations from the prime minister or senior government ministers – but the heart of these awards lies with the public. Anyone can nominate a deserving individual, reinforcing the spirit that greatness thrives not only in high places but also in the hearts of those who serve their communities tirelessly.
As we step into 2025, these honourees remind us of the power of compassion, resilience, and the enduring strength of community.
