Bolton boxer Amir Khan was celebrated for his charitable efforts at this year's Asian Achievers Awards.
The 22nd Asian Achievers Awards brought together more than 500 distinguished guests from around the world.
Hosted by former Eastenders star Nitin Ganatra and ITV newsreader Anila Dhami, the evening was described as a testament to the exceptional achievements within the British Asian community.
Amir was awarded a Special Award for Philanthropy and said: "It’s a privilege to be recognised for the work I’ve always felt deeply passionate about.
“This award is recognition for all those who have supported my foundation in the last decade and the brilliant team who work tirelessly on the ground."
Amongst the night’s winners were fusion sound duo Abi Sampa and Rushil Ranjan, Leicester City footballer Hamza Choudhury, GP specialising in women’s health Dr Nighat Arif, the founder of the Indian street food chain Chaiiwalas, and the founder of the largest distributor of car parts in Europe Sukhpal Singh Ahluwalia.
For his more than 50 years in public service, the Lifetime Achievement Award went to former Member of Parliament Virendra Sharma.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said: “British Asians are a driving force behind much of the social, cultural and economic innovation we see in Britain today.
“You represent so many of the values that help our communities thrive — ambition, hard work and inclusivity, to name just a few.
“This is why it is wonderful so see so many British Asian change-makers being recognised tonight by the team at EPG.”
Former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak also sent his congratulations to the winners and the EPG team.
Organiser of the Awards, Pratik Dattani, said: “The British Asian community adds so much to Britain today. Tonight was testament to the longevity of our Awards – after 22 years, they still matter and they still are able to unearth the most exceptional people from across the country.”
Host Ganatra said: “Every year I come to these Awards and am impressed by the standard of nominations and the quality of the shortlist. Just look back at the last two decades of winners and you’ll see the event has tracked the growth of our community for more than a generation.”
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 Nasser
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
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