Celebrating the very best of the region's Asian business enterprise

A sparkling event celebrating the contribution of Asian businesses to the Greater Manchester economy took place at the prestigious Grand Hall, Vermilion.

The Greater Manchester Business Leaders Dinner and Awards 2018 highlighted the work of those Asian business leaders that have reached national and global success through innovation and leadership.

The winners on the evening were Khalid Ahmed (YourUKPharmacy) for innovation, Asad Shamim (Furniture in Fashion) for successful application of digital media, Dr Zubair Ahmed (Arlington British Medical Academy) for business growth globally and Oldham's Dr Zahid Chauhan (Homeless Friendly) for business solving a social problem. 

Nilesh M Bhatt, from the Gartside Street Dental Lounge, won the digital transformation category, while another recognition went to Aneel Mussarat form MCR property group, who was given an honour for business and philanthropy.

The guest speaker was Tanveer Hussain, head of the overseas banking divsion at the Bank of England.

Tanveer is also involved in the Bank of England’s work on risks to the financial system from climate change and developments in green finance. 

Oldham-based Muzahid Khan, a spokesperson from the Asian Business Leaders group, said: “The Asian business leaders awards dinner celebrates the enormous social impact of business which at its best promotes values of leadership and service.  

“Tremendous opportunities for social change are created by business leaders through shared values. 

“By recognising individuals who embody the leadership ideal, we seek to encourage widespread recognition and adoption of these values among the business community.”

Kashif Ashraf, also from Oldham, added: “As a regional stronghold for business and innovation, Greater Manchester has a lot to celebrate.

“We are passionate about shining a spotlight on those businesses that have made an impact but to also celebrate the diversity that makes up the business community of the region and which makes Greater Manchester such a great place to thrive.”

The nominated charity for the evening was Onside youth zones, who give young people an opportunity for a brighter future.

Jerry Glover, one of the co-founders, gave a very moving talk about Onside's work and afterwards the raffle and auction raised £7,000 for the charity. 

The auction prize was two return tickets donated by Oman Air, with a stay at two top five star hotels.

Key sponsors for the event included NatWest, Business Growth Hub, Datacentre Plus, Shaks Specialist Cars, Asian Leader, Oman Air and Onside.

Heather Waters, National Enterprise Manager at NatWest, said: “During the six years I’ve spent working in the north west as Enterprise Manager here at NatWest, I’ve experienced first hand the success that members of the Asian business community have achieved through their commitment to the application of innovative business practices. 

“We’re delighted to have sponsored the inaugural Asian Business Leaders Awards and to have the opportunity to recognise and celebrate the vital role the Asian business community plays in the region.”

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