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International WOMENS DAY LEADERSHIP SERIES
For more than 36 years, Sunrise Radio has proudly served as the voice of the Asian community, connecting listeners across Yorkshire, Lancashire, Greater Manchester and beyond. Throughout this journey, our mission has remained clear — to inform, uplift and celebrate the achievements of the communities we serve. This year’s International Women’s Day theme, “Give to Gain,” reminds us that real progress often begins with generosity — giving our time, sharing knowledge, mentoring others and creating opportunities so that communities as a whole can grow and thrive. Through the Sunrise Radio International Women’s Day Leadership Series, we are honoured to spotlight a remarkable group of women whose journeys embody this spirit. Each of the women featured in this series has given something meaningful to others — whether through leadership, community service, mentorship, entrepreneurship or advocacy. In doing so, they have not only strengthened the lives of those around them but also gained new opportunities, influence and impact. At Sunrise Radio, we believe media has a powerful role to play in sharing these stories. By amplifying voices that inspire and celebrate positive role models, we help encourage the next generation to believe in their potential and recognise the value of supporting one another. The interviews (which will be aired on the radio and published online on Sunday) highlight how generosity of spirit, shared knowledge and collective support can unlock opportunities for others. When individuals invest in their communities, they create pathways for progress, confidence and lasting change. The women featured in these conversations demonstrate that leadership is not only about personal success. It is about lifting others as we rise and recognising that when we give back to our communities, we all gain. — Raj Parmar Director, Sunrise Radio
IWD2026
NAZ SHAH MP
Member of Parliament for Bradford West
BRADFORD spotlight
Naz Shah is a dedicated public servant and community advocate, currently serving as the Member of Parliament for Bradford West. Since being elected in 2015, she has been a strong voice in Parliament on issues including social justice, equality, community cohesion and the protection of vulnerable people. With a background shaped by personal resilience and lived experience, Naz brings authenticity and determination to her political work. She has been widely recognised for speaking openly about issues such as domestic abuse, poverty and inequality, using her platform to raise awareness and push for meaningful change. Throughout her time in Parliament, Naz has worked on a range of national policy areas, including women’s rights, health inequalities and tackling discrimination. She has also been an active advocate for her constituents, championing initiatives that support families, young people and local businesses in Bradford. Naz is also the author of the memoir Honoured, in which she shares her powerful personal journey and experiences, offering insight into the challenges she has faced and the resilience that has shaped her public service. Passionate about fairness and opportunity, Naz continues to promote inclusive policies and stronger communities. She regularly engages with grassroots organisations, charities and community groups, working closely with local leaders, educators and volunteers to address social challenges and expand opportunities for future generations. Her work reflects a strong commitment to ensuring that voices from all backgrounds are heard and represented, both locally in Bradford and nationally across the United Kingdom, championing fairness, opportunity and social justice for all communities while advocating for equality, dignity and greater representation across public life.
www.sunriseradio.fm
Noor ali bem
Noor Ali BEM is a respected business leader and community advocate, currently serving as Senior Commercial Manager at P&B Foods. With strong expertise in commercial operations, brand development and revenue growth, she plays a key role in shaping the company’s strategic direction and driving sustainable expansion across competitive markets. Known for combining commercial insight with people-focused leadership, Noor has built strong stakeholder relationships and helped enhance brand visibility while identifying new growth opportunities within the food sector. Awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) for her services to diversity in the retail industry, Noor is recognised for her commitment to empowering others and promoting inclusion and representation. She actively supports entrepreneurship, particularly among women and underrepresented communities, encouraging confidence, resilience and authentic leadership. Earlier in her career, Noor spent over a decade with major UK retailers including Asda and Morrisons, where she helped develop the UK’s multicultural retail landscape by expanding the “World Foods” category and introducing a wider range of culturally diverse products into mainstream supermarkets nationwide. Beyond her corporate role, Noor remains deeply committed to community impact. She mentors through organisations such as Ahead Partnership and the Cranfield Trust and founded Noor’s Den, an initiative designed to help prisoners rebuild confidence and develop entrepreneurial skills. She is also Trustee for Halifax Piece Hall, championing inclusive leadership across business and wider society.
Senior commercial manager p&b foods
kiran bali mbe
Chair, Council of Faiths Calderdale | Interfaith Leader
Calderdale spotlight
Kiran Bali MBE is a respected interfaith leader, community advocate and educator dedicated to promoting dialogue, understanding and collaboration between diverse communities. She currently serves as Chair of the Council of Faiths for Calderdale, where she plays a leading role in strengthening relationships between faith groups and supporting initiatives that foster inclusion, social cohesion and mutual respect. With many years of experience in education and community engagement, Kiran has been instrumental in developing programmes that bring people of different backgrounds together to build stronger and more connected communities. Through her leadership, she has supported a wide range of initiatives focused on cultural understanding, youth engagement and community wellbeing. Kiran was awarded the Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in recognition of her outstanding services to interfaith relations and community cohesion. Her work has extended beyond the local level, contributing to national and international conversations around faith dialogue, cultural understanding and peacebuilding. Passionate about encouraging respectful dialogue and shared understanding, Kiran continues to champion the values of inclusion, collaboration and civic responsibility. Her long-standing commitment to community service reflects a belief that meaningful change comes through partnership, education and the willingness to listen to one another. Beyond her leadership in Calderdale, Kiran has also contributed to wider initiatives that promote global interfaith understanding and cooperation. She has participated in international forums and educational programmes aimed at strengthening dialogue between faith communities and encouraging young people to engage positively with diversity, mutual respect and shared civic values. Through her work, she continues to inspire communities to build bridges of understanding and lasting harmony.
Bradford spotlight
Founder & owner, SKB Law
Sarah Khan-Bashir MBE is an award-winning solicitor, entrepreneur and community advocate, best known as the founder and owner of SKB Law, a specialist family law firm recognised for its expertise in complex divorce, financial settlements and international family law matters. With over two decades of legal experience, Sarah has built a distinguished career representing clients in some of the most challenging and sensitive family law cases. Her work often involves complex cross-border disputes and culturally sensitive legal issues, requiring both strong legal expertise and a deep understanding of the diverse communities she serves. Sarah founded SKB Law with a vision of providing high-quality legal services while ensuring that clients feel supported, understood and empowered during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. Under her leadership, the firm has gained a reputation for its client-centred approach, combining legal excellence with compassion and cultural awareness. Beyond her work as a solicitor, Sarah is deeply committed to mentoring and supporting the next generation of legal professionals. Through initiatives such as the SKB Law Academy, she actively encourages young people—particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds—to pursue careers in law and professional services. In recognition of her outstanding services to the legal profession and the wider community, Sarah was awarded the Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE). She is widely respected not only for her legal expertise but also for her dedication to promoting equality, representation and opportunity within the profession. Through her leadership, advocacy and mentorship, Sarah continues to inspire others while demonstrating the powerful impact that professional excellence and community commitment can achieve.
SARAH-KHAN BASHIR MBE
Head chef Prashad Restaurant
Minal Patel is an award-winning restaurateur, entrepreneur and business leader best known as the Head Chef of Prashad, one of the UK’s most celebrated vegetarian Indian restaurants. Taking forward a family legacy that began with her mother-in-law, Minal has played a central role in transforming Prashad into a nationally recognised brand. Under her leadership, the restaurant has gained widespread acclaim for its innovative vegetarian cuisine, commitment to quality and dedication to authentic flavours rooted in traditional Gujarati cooking. Minal first came to national attention when Prashad appeared on the television programme Ramsay's Best Restaurant, where it quickly captured the attention of viewers and critics alike. Since then, she has continued to expand the restaurant’s reputation, earning numerous awards and accolades within the hospitality industry. Beyond the restaurant itself, Minal is passionate about entrepreneurship and the power of family businesses to create lasting impact within communities. She has successfully combined tradition with innovation, ensuring that Prashad remains both culturally authentic and commercially successful in an increasingly competitive food sector. Through her work, Minal continues to champion the richness of vegetarian Indian cuisine while demonstrating how passion, resilience and strong leadership can transform a family business into a thriving national success story. She remains committed to excellence, innovation and inspiring future generations of entrepreneurs within the hospitality industry, while proudly celebrating cultural heritage and the importance of family traditions in business and community life.
MINAL PATEL
ANDLEEB HANIF
Founding Partner & Managing Editor Asian Express
LEEDS spotlight
Andleeb Hanif is a respected business leader, community advocate and champion for women’s empowerment. She currently serves as Chair of the Business Power Awards Lionesses (BPA Lionesses), a dynamic network dedicated to supporting and connecting women across business, leadership and public life. With a strong background in professional services and community engagement, Andleeb has built a reputation for bringing people together to create meaningful opportunities for collaboration, mentorship and leadership development. Through her work with the BPA Lionesses, she has helped establish a platform where women can share experiences, develop confidence and build professional networks that support career progression and entrepreneurship. Andleeb is particularly passionate about encouraging greater representation of women from diverse backgrounds in leadership roles. She actively supports initiatives that promote mentorship, professional development and visibility for women in business, helping to inspire the next generation of leaders. Her work often focuses on creating supportive environments where women feel empowered to pursue their ambitions and contribute to their communities. Beyond her leadership role within the British Pakistani Foundation, Andleeb is widely recognised for her ability to build strong partnerships across sectors. She regularly collaborates with organisations, community groups and professionals to promote dialogue, inclusion and shared learning. Committed to strengthening community connections and celebrating the achievements of women, Andleeb continues to champion initiatives that encourage confidence, leadership and collaboration. Her work reflects a strong belief that empowering women and building supportive networks are key to creating more inclusive, successful and resilient communities.
Manchester spotlight
Founder & CEO, Make A Difference GM
NADIA ALI
Nadia Ali is a dedicated community leader, social entrepreneur and advocate for equality, inclusion and opportunity. She is the founder and Chief Executive of Make A Difference GM, a grassroots organisation committed to empowering individuals and strengthening communities across Greater Manchester through education, wellbeing initiatives and community support programmes. Driven by her own lived experiences and a deep passion for social justice, Nadia established the organisation to create meaningful opportunities for people who may face barriers to participation and success. Through Make A Difference GM, she has led a wide range of initiatives including wellbeing workshops, employability support, youth engagement programmes and community events that bring people together from diverse backgrounds. Nadia is widely recognised for her commitment to empowering women and young people, particularly those from underrepresented communities. Her work focuses on building confidence, promoting leadership and encouraging individuals to realise their potential. She also collaborates closely with local authorities, voluntary organisations and community partners to address issues such as social isolation, inequality and access to opportunity. Alongside her role at Make A Difference GM, Nadia has played an active part in wider community networks and initiatives that promote gender equality and community cohesion. Her leadership has helped create safe spaces where people can connect, learn and support one another. She is also involved in regional initiatives that champion women’s leadership and participation in civic life, helping to amplify diverse voices in community decision-making. Through mentoring and advocacy, she continues to encourage greater representation and opportunity for future leaders. Passionate about creating lasting social impact, Nadia continues to inspire others through her work, demonstrating how community-led action, collaboration and compassion can create stronger, more inclusive and resilient communities for future generations.
zee jogi
Founder, Z’s Defence Academy | Martial Arts & Wellbeing Coach
BLACKBURN spotlight
Zaynab “Zee” Jogi is a Blackburn and Lancashire-based community leader, self-defence instructor and founder of Z’s Defence Academy, a mission-driven organisation supporting women, young people and underserved communities through self-defence, fitness, outdoor adventure, education and volunteering. Built on an ethos to engage, educate and empower, Zee’s work focuses on helping people develop confidence, resilience and practical life skills, while improving physical and mental wellbeing. A passionate advocate for inclusion and access, Zee is known for creating safe and supportive spaces—particularly for women and girls—where participants can build strength, independence and self-belief. Through self-defence training, fitness programmes and community workshops, she helps individuals gain both physical skills and the confidence to navigate everyday challenges. Her programmes often reach people who may not otherwise have access to traditional sports or wellbeing opportunities. Zee is also a qualified fitness instructor, boxing coach and self-defence course creator, using sport and movement as powerful tools to break down barriers and tackle wellbeing challenges in the community. Her approach combines physical training with mentoring, helping participants build discipline, leadership skills and a stronger sense of personal empowerment. Alongside her community work, Zee is recognised for her adventurous spirit and commitment to social impact. She has taken part in major outdoor challenges to raise awareness and support charitable causes, inspiring others to step beyond their comfort zones. Through her work with Z’s Defence Academy and wider community initiatives, Zee continues to inspire individuals to build confidence, develop resilience and realise their full potential while building stronger, safer and more connected communities across Lancashire and the wider North West region.
cOMMUNITY AND HEALTH ENTREPRENEUR BOLLYFIT aCTIVE
Shamime Jan is a passionate community leader and social entrepreneur dedicated to improving health, wellbeing and inclusion within diverse communities. She is the founder of Bollyfit Active CIC, a Manchester-based organisation that promotes physical activity, mental wellbeing and confidence through culturally inclusive fitness programmes designed particularly for women. With a strong background in community engagement and grassroots leadership, Shamime has successfully created safe and welcoming spaces where women from different backgrounds can come together to exercise, build confidence and support one another. Through Bollyfit Active, she has delivered workshops, wellbeing sessions and community initiatives that address both physical and mental health. Known for her energetic leadership and commitment to empowerment, Shamime works closely with local organisations, councils and community groups to widen access to health and wellbeing opportunities. Her programmes have helped many women overcome barriers to participation, particularly those who may face cultural or social obstacles to engaging in fitness. Passionate about creating positive change at a local level, Shamime continues to champion inclusive health initiatives while inspiring others to prioritise wellbeing, confidence and community connection. Her work reflects a strong belief that healthier communities are built through empowerment, collaboration and accessible opportunities. In addition to her work through Bollyfit Active, Shamime is a strong advocate for preventative health and community-led wellbeing initiatives. She regularly collaborates with local partners to deliver programmes addressing isolation, mental health and social inclusion, particularly among women who may feel excluded from mainstream fitness environments. Through mentoring, workshops and community events, she encourages women to build confidence, develop leadership skills and support one another in achieving healthier lifestyles. Her work continues to inspire many across Greater Manchester, demonstrating how culturally sensitive approaches to wellbeing can create lasting positive change.
SHAMIME JAN
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POONAM JOSHI
Founder & Community Advocate, Indian Ladies UK
LONDON spotlight
Poonam Joshi is a journalist, community advocate and founder of Indian Ladies UK, a widely recognised platform dedicated to supporting and empowering Indian women living in the United Kingdom. Through her work, she has become a prominent voice highlighting the experiences, challenges and achievements of migrant women across Britain. Poonam established Indian Ladies UK in 2015 after recognising the need for a supportive community where Indian women—particularly newcomers to the UK—could connect, share experiences and find guidance. What began as a small online community has since grown into a powerful network offering advice, resources and support to thousands of women navigating life in a new country. Alongside her work as a community leader, Poonam has built a career in journalism, contributing to international media outlets and covering a range of topics including social issues, community stories and the experiences of the South Asian diaspora. Her journalism reflects a strong commitment to amplifying voices that are often underrepresented in mainstream media. Through Indian Ladies UK, Poonam has led numerous initiatives aimed at raising awareness around issues such as domestic abuse, immigration challenges, mental wellbeing and women’s rights. Her work often focuses on helping women build confidence, access support networks and develop a stronger sense of independence and belonging. Passionate about community empowerment and social justice, Poonam continues to use her platform to advocate for equality, inclusion and opportunity. Her work reflects a belief that when women support one another, communities become stronger, more connected and better equipped to overcome challenges together while building confidence, resilience and long-term support networks for future generations and empowering women to lead positive change within society.