Asian Standard Bradford (3-15 Jan) E-paper

Fatima Patel

WELCOME TO OUR FIRST ISSUE OF 2023

As 2022 has ended and a fresh new year begins, here at Asian Standard we have only one thing to say – THANK

Like everyone, team Asian Standard have been reflecting on the things that occurred this past year. From the stories we have written, the year indeed has been eventful, interesting, historic, but often challenging and turbulent. Irrespective, those of you reading this, can take comfort that we have seen it through.

We have immense gratitude for all those who have trusted Asian Standard to share their stories. From devastating news to new business openings, to achieving accolades, thank you for allowing us to be your voice.

Every time we read and edit a story, we re empowered and comforted by the fact that there are people out there fulfilling their own missions to turn a difficult story into a good story. By doing what you do, we get to fulfil our mission by delivering the message that we all have a voice and the power to make a difference.

2022 has been great year for events post the pandemic. We thank everyone for the invitations and celebrations, at your events and those for attending and celebrating at our events. We hope to attend and deliver many more events in 2023.

Along with our loyal readers we of course could not have gotten through this year without our sponsors and advertisers, of whom without we cannot fund our journalism. We thank each and every one of you for your business through what has been a big growth and rebuilding year of Asian Standard. It's a year which has seen us clinch the Best Publication Award at the Asian Media Awards and move into new and bigger premises to continue our growth and have more exciting content and news for you in the years to come.

We are proud to announce our charities of the year Bradford Hospitals Charity and Forget Me Not Children s Hospice, after all community is at the heart of everything we do, and we are sure our readers will help us with their donations to these fantastic causes.

Let's start the year by celebrating the cities, most Influential South Asians of 2022.

Hello 2023

BRITISH INDIAN ARMY MEMORIAL COMING UP IN GLASGOW

Glasgow City Council has approved plans to erect a memorial in Scotland to recognise the service and sacrifice of

RISHI

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak during an interview refused three times to reveal whether he uses private healthcare or not.

When asked during an interview with BBC's Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg programme if he was or had ever been registered with a private GP, Mr Sunak replied "Healthcare was a personal choice."

"I grew up in an NHS family. My dad was a doctor, and a mum who was

more than four million Indian soldiers in the British Army.

The plans for the memorial, which

pharmacist," The BBC quoted the UK Prime Minister as saying.

He said "We should be making use of the independent sector so patients could choose where they have treatment."

On whether National Health Service (NHS) was "in crisis", he said "It is undeniably under pressure."

The recovery from the pandemic was "going to be tough", he said but was optimistic to overcome the problem.

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak

New British Indian Army Memorial to be built in Glasgow

will come up near Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum in Glasgow, were submitted by Colourful Heritage -- a group that captures first-hand accounts of first-generation South Asians in Scotland, The Glasgow Times reported.

Glasgow City Council approved the plan subject to conditions, which include full details of the designs and content of carvings into the stone.

Samples of the materials for the pavilion and surrounding blocks have also been submitted for approval, according to the paper.

The upcoming structure will feature a 'Chattri' (dome) design for the roof and Locharbriggs sandstone columns, matching the Kelvingrove architecture.

Pillars will be carved creating a South Asian design, and cherry trees will be planted along with benches for people to sit and reflect.

Indian Army soldiers in the UK were from modern day Pakistan, India and Bangladesh.

The memorial will represent the diversity of Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, Christians and Gurkhas who fought alongside British troops during the First and Second World Wars.

It will also highlight the special link between Scotland and Force K6 -- the allMuslim Punjabi regiment that escaped from Dunkirk during World War II and made their way to Scotland, as per reports.

SNAPCHAT TO ABANDON ITS

LADEN DESKTOP CAMERA APP

Snapchat has announced the departure of a major feature from its layout recently.

The instant messaging app decided to shut down on its camera app for the desktop which allowed users to choose from a variety of filters from cat ears to pirate hats to apply during video calls.

On the support page of the app's website, a message was posted which notified users that 'on 25 January 2023, Snap Camera will no longer be available to use or download'.

"You can continue using Lenses on your computer with Snapchat for Web," the message further read.

The camera feature was introduced to the app in 2018. At the time it was available to use with apps like Skype, YouTube, Zoom and Google Hangouts. Available on both Mac and Windows operating systems, it allowed users to switch different filters during a video call or a live stream.

On Twitter, the messaging app announced that it was now focusing more on making the Camera Kit access more expansive for a better experience on web.

"Hi there, thanks for asking! We're adjusting our web-based investments for the AR creator and developer community to focus on expanding access to Camera Kit for Web. Stay tuned for more info this year, and you can keep using Lenses on your

computer with Snapchat for Web," the app's tweet read.

Earlier in June 2022, Snapchat had formally unveiled Snapchat+, a premium membership at USD3.99/month service that will give users access to unique features including the option to alter the app icon and the ability to know who has rewatched your stories.

According to TechCrunch, the company had said that it is testing this capability, although it did not provide any information. It has now formally established Snapchat+. With additional nations to be added shortly, the new subscription plan will debut in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Australia, New Zealand, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.

WHATSAPPS NEW

FEATURE

TO ALLOW TRANSFER DATA ON ANDROID

Meta-owned WhatsApp is reportedly working on a new feature called -- 'Chat Transfer', which will allow users to transfer their data from one Android device to another using a local network.

According to WABetaInfo, the company will bring the new feature to a future update of the app as it is in the developing stage.

With this feature, users will be able to transfer chat history to a new device by scanning the QR code.

It will eliminate the need for Google Drive, so users will no longer have to back up their chat data to the cloud service if they want to transfer the chats from one device to another, said the report.

Meanwhile, WhatsApp also launched a proxy support for users all over the world, like millions of

people in Iran and elsewhere who continue to be denied the right to communicate freely and privately.

Choosing a proxy will enable them to connect to WhatsApp through servers set up by volunteers and organisations around the world dedicated to helping people communicate freely.

"We are making it easier for anyone to connect to WhatsApp using a proxy. So when a connection to WhatsApp is blocked, people have the power to restore access," said Will Cathcart, Head of WhatsApp.

An Indian man faces up to three years in prison if convicted of outraging a woman's modesty, was reportedly drunk during a New York to New Delhi flight on 26 November.

Shankar Mishra, a former vice president of operations for banking giant Wells Fargo, was arrested in India for allegedly urinating on an elderly woman during the Air India flight.

Indian police say the man, aged 34, was detained in the southern city of Bengaluru following the incident.

Mishra, was transported to the Indian capital on Saturday 7 January, where he was put in custody for 14 days while police investigate.

If convicted the man, who was fired from his job at a high-profile banking firm following the allegations, faces up to three years in prison.

The Times of India newspaper reported the suspect saying that he was drunk at the time of the alleged incident and that he could not

believe what he had done.

Air India only filed a police complaint this week regarding the incident, citing that the crew did not summon police upon landing in New Delhi as they believed that the two people involved had sorted out the issue between them.

Meanwhile, Air India said it had issued written notices and grounded one pilot and four cabin crew in relation to the incident.

The company had faced criticism on social media over its decision to prevent the man from flying with them for 30 days - a ban which activists said was not long enough.

The airline's CEO and managing director, Campbell Wilson, said in a statement: "Air India acknowledges that it could have handled these matters better, both in the air and on the ground and is committed to taking action."

Image: Pixabay

By CHRIS YOUNG

“HA man has been ordered to pay over £1,000 after working as a door security at a Bradford pub without a licence.

Haider Zaheer was working the door of the Ginger Goose on Market Street on Saturday 2 April without a proper licence from the Security Industry Authority – an offence which led to him appearing in Bradford and Keighley Magistrates Court on Thursday.

Zaheer, of East Bath Street in Batley, pleaded guilty to a charge of operating as a door supervisor “other than in accordance with a licence issued under the Private Security Industry Act.”

The 21-year-old was fined £323 and ordered to pay £600 in costs and a £129 surcharge.

The case was brought by the Security Industry Authority – a body set up to regulate the industry and prosecute anyone who does not follow laws relating to security staff.

Magistrates were told that Zaheer

director Stephen Garber were also due to appear in court on Thursday on charges relating to Zaheer being deployed to work at the pub.

Neither Garber, of Brookfield Road, Bradford, nor anyone from the company appeared, and the court issued a warrant for Garber.

Mark Chapman, one of the SIA’s criminal investigations managers, said: “This is another example of our partnership working improving public safety, in this case with West Yorkshire Police and Bradford City Council.

“When people visit their local pubs and clubs, they can reasonably expect that they can do so in a safe environment.

“The SIA’s licensing regime is there to protect the public and Zaheer by his actions sought to undermine it. In working as an unlicensed door supervisor he put the pub’s staff and patrons at risk. He has now been sentenced and has received a criminal conviction as a result.”

was asked to produce his licence on April 2 by a police officer on patrol with a licensing officer.

He failed to produce a valid licence, and later failed to attend an interview to discuss the matter.

The company that employed Zaheer, Bradford based Worldwide Security Services Ltd, and its

This article is by the Local Democracy Reporting Service

Ginger Goose Pub

BRADFORD’S MOST INFLUENTIAL SOUTH ASIANS OF 2022

Every year with the help of our readers, we are able to compile our annual list of key influencers and movers and shakers of Bradford District. This year we were particularly looking for influencers, who have used their position to help in those going through difficult times with the cost of living crisis and have helped improve society, business, and our environment.

Earning money and achieving success is surely hard work, however being able to have influence is something that only a special few can command. These influencers can help make or break a decision, help set trends but also use their status for the good of their industry or community. So, we set out to find out, just who are the most influential within Bradford’s South Asian community.

This year again we have received a huge number of nominations, and we would like to thank each and every one of you who took time out to nominate. This made the task even more difficult of shaving down the list to the final 20. However, thanks to our panel made up of our editorial team and input from public figures this has finally been achieved. It wasn’t easy trust us as there are so many who are doing some incredible work and deserving of recognition, that it was a real challenge to get to our final 20 influencers. The list is in no particular order and brings forward men and women from all sectors of business, politics, sport, entertainment, and charity and here they are:

IMRAN KHAN

Imran Khan has worked tirelessly over the last three decades, from working at a car dealership to now visualising his dream of owning his own bespoke tailoring company. Imran Khan is considered as the social fabric of Bradford and owns IK Collections, which offers bespoke men’s tailored suits. He has tailored for many famous faces over the years, which includes, champion boxers Amir Khan and Tyson Fury, TV antiques experts David Dickinson and David Harper from the Antiques Roadshow, among many others. However, it’s Imran’s desire to help others that has cemented his position as one of Bradford’s most influential. As well as forming an impressive client base of influential figures, Imran also uses his network to help the NHS on a regular basis. Most recently, the Bradford born fashion designer ended the year by inviting leading figures to IC Care in Bradford Royal Infirmary, to help cut fabric to stitch up brand new scrubs for the staff. Those helping on this project included Bradford East MP Imran Hussain along with leading business figures from across the district.

ZAYN MALIK

Bradford’s most popular export, singer songwriter, Zayn Malik surprised everyone when he used his stardom to influence more support for free school meals.

Zayn, who grew up in Bradford and rose to stardom with the popular boy band One Direction, relied on free school meals himself as a youngster. He is now using his superstardom by joining the charity Food Foundation as their ambassador and wants to do all he can to tackle food poverty.

Using his influence, Zayn wrote to the Prime Minister urging him to ensure no child living in poverty misses out on a hot nutritious meal at school, especially since that school meal may be the only hot meal they receive all day.

The singing sensation went on to share: “I want the Government to act urgently to ensure that children no longer have to suffer the trauma and stigma of hunger and poverty and can grow up to have healthy and productive lives.

“My long-term commitment to this work is driven by my families’ own experiences and I feel passionately that every child has a fundamental right to good food. This is a problem that we can all work together to solve.”

HUMAYUN ISLAM BEM

Humayun has been on Asian Standard’s influential list three times in a row now and it seems he keeps delivering more and more for the communities he represents each year. Along with being a respected and proactive member of Bradford’s Bangladeshi community, Humayun is now also Bradford’s Premier League Community Captain. He was awarded the title by the FA who visited Bradford in August 2022 as part of their 30-year anniversary celebrations and trophy tour.

Along with providing local community members to be up close and personal with the FA trophy, Humayun and the team at BEAP, have been working hard to realise the dream of building a state-of-the-art sports complex within the heart of Manningham.

Along with his many other duties, there is no stopping Humayun as he also used his networks and influence to launch a one-of-akind organisation to support men dealing with domestic abuse called Men Reaching Out.

SAF FAKIR

Saf Fakir landed a role on the popular TV series Quest’s The Woodland Workshop. The programme follows Saf and other members of a group of highlyskilled woodworkers, carpenters, metalworkers who have joined forces to create unique and beautiful items of furniture for worthy recipients. He first appeared in the programme in May 2022 and has since secured another appearance in the new series which airs on 17 January.

Since landing the TV role, Saf has been helping youngsters in schools develop their woodwork skills. The woodworker helped children at Byron Primary School make their own gumball machines, during their Design and Technology workshop.

ADIL RASHID

Undoubtedly Adil Rashid has truly made his mark for Bradford and for British South Asians across the country being part of the England teams that won the 2019 Cricket World Cup and 2022 T20 World Cup.

Lack of representation of South Asians in sport has been a hotly debated topic. Adil’s performance in cricket and the levels at which he is playing and proving himself, presents a positive image for South Asian sports personalities. Adil has now become a role model and is inspiring many others to not give up on their dreams and pursue a career in professional sport.

Adil plays as a right-arm leg break bowler. He is England’s highest wicket-taker among spin bowlers in both ODIs and T20Is, and England’ second-highest wicket-taker in T20Is overall behind Chris Jordan. Along with Jos Butler, he holds the world record for highest seventh-wicket stand in ODIs: 177 against New Zealand in 2015.

Adil also uses his spare time to support communities with inspirational talks and charitable work helping with food poverty.

DR AMIR KHAN

Dr Amir Khan has been making strides in his career both on and off screen.

Dr Amir Khan is a devoted GP and best-selling author working in inner city Bradford. His charisma and expertise won the hearts of the nation following his role in the 2014 series of GP’s Behind Closed Doors on Channel 5.

Since then, Dr Amir has gone on to regularly appear on ITV’s GMB and the Lorraine show and is a regular contributor on the NHS crisis as well as offering health tips.

He has educational experience too as he is a Senior Lecturer at both the University of Leeds School of Medicine and the University of Bradford. 2022 was a busy year for Dr Amir as TV appearances increased, his book ‘The Doctor Will See You Now’ became a best seller and he was awarded a prestigious honorary doctorate from the University of Bradford. Dr Amir is extremely active on his social media using his platform to impart essential health advice and also to support the local wildlife. He has recently been named as patron of the British Hedgehog Preservation Society.

PROFESSOR ZAHIR IRANI

Professor Zahir Irani started his career with the University of Bradford in 2016 as Dean of Faculty (Management and Law), where he led a successful merger with the Faculty of Social Sciences before then assuming the role of a Founding Dean of the new Faculty.

Within a short space of time, Professor Irani, through hard work, commitment and dedication expanded his portfolio by becoming the Deputy Vice Chancellor of the University of Bradford. Professor Irani has been incredibly passionate about leading on social, economic and cultural value creation and has developed a five-year economic recovery plan for Bradford Metropolitan District Council during his time as Chair of the Bradford Covid-19 Economic Recovery Board. He was able to present the plan to the then Chancellor Rishi Sunak and to get him to rethink Northern Rail plans.

Professor Irani has been instrumental in supporting more than 30 PHD graduates over the years, and has regularly maintained his position in the top 30 UK computer scientists for three consecutive years in Guide2Research. He has also been named by the Sunday Times as a leading Bradford influencer.

The father son team of Simmi Sekhon and Nirmal Singh MBE are a unique powerhouse and have been working hard to develop the City’s property market. Nirmal Singh MBE arrived in the UK in 1967 as a 15-year-old boy from Punjab. He then started his business at the tender age of 17 and despite being discriminated against due to his he stayed strong in his faith and established Nirmal Razai Mart & Company Ltd, which achieved incredible recognition throughout the UK for their textile products

His son Simmi Sekhon qualified as a lawyer, but after years of practice, left the legal profession to join his father in the property business. The duo are often seen at events, sponsoring local community projects and lending their support whenever needed, whether that’s with connections or finance. Mr Nirmal Singh has even been awarded an MBE for services to community relations in Bradford. The father son duo provide support for on many boards and acts as a spokespeople between Bradford’s communities and public sector bodies, such as the Police, Fire Service, Bradford Council and the Department for Education.

SIMMI SEKHON/NIRMAL SINGH MBE

DR AMJAD PERVEZ

Dr Pervez returns to our influential list for 2022. Dr Pervez founded Seafresh/Adams in Bradford over 30 years ago and it is now one of the largest groups of independent specialist catering, food and cash and carry groups in the UK. Alongside building this successful business, he has committed a lot of time to education and enterprise in Bradford and the wider West Yorkshire region, including establishing Asian Trade Link Yorkshire Limited in 1999, and sitting on several boards of leading organisations such as Leeds City Region Enterprise Partnership and Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.

After creating and leading on significant projects in the UK, Dr Pervez moved to Pakistan to pursue business opportunities overseas as chairman of Jumpstart Pakistan. After making significant strides in working with some top-level organisations in Pakistan and connecting British Pakistani business individuals with the same Dr Pervez returned to the UK to collect his doctorate from the University of Bradford and took up a role at HM government UKs new initiative HELP TO GROW PROGRAM, to mentor entrepreneurs. Dr Pervez, continues to develop enterprise in both Pakistan and UK, imparting his decades worth of experience and knowledge to new budding entrepreneurs.

NASREEN KARIM

Nasreen Karim is the founder and Director at Platinum Partnership Solicitors. Nasreen is board member of the West & North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce and was the key force in launching the BAME community at the chamber, to help support business owners from minority communities across the district.

Nasreen has won several awards for her legal practice and continues to hold her seat at the table of key board decisions at Bradford chamber. Nasreen recently used her influential skills, to host an audience with the UK’s first Asian and Muslim president of the Law Society, Lubna Shuja. The event was Ms Shuja’s first public event as president of the Law Society which saw hundreds attend.

EMON CHOUDHURY

Emon Choudhury and his nephew Jamiul were crowned winners of BBC Two’s Race Across the World that gripped the nation at the start of the first lockdown in 2020.

The pair won the show by a mere 20 seconds after travelling for 54 days through 17 countries in a dash to the end of the Earth.

During the BBC Two competition Emon got to experience the beauty of South America but describes the experience as a real eye opener to witness first-hand child poverty on the streets of Brazil. As soon he knew his team had won, they decided immediately to donate half the prize money of £20,000 to try and help the children in some way or at least to get them off the streets.

Since his TV stint Emon has remained committed to helping orphans and to eliminate child poverty by participating in several races, including one in Ramadan while fasting to raise money for his cause.

DR RUBY BHATTI OBE

Dr Ruby Bhatti OBE makes a return to the influential list and has been described as the ‘absolute ‘voice’ for different walks of life’

Dr Bhatti, sits on several boards, which includes being chair for four schools from Primary to Secondary and also a Trustee for two large Multi Academies. She also supports the Local Authority in various positions including sitting on their Admissions Appeals Panel. Through these roles she supports decision making at board level, school level and is an absolute support to Principals and to staff impacting on improving education in Bradford and ensuring that every pupil in Bradford is entitled to good education.

She supports the University of Bradford as a Faculty Community Fellow and more recently as a Honorary Doctorate and Associate Lecturer in the Faculty of Health, Faculty of Management and Law and Social Sciences, School of Social Work and Pharmacy. She was also part of the Advisory Committee for the Bradford 2025 which helped to shape the final submission of the bid and her insight and knowledge of the Bradford community was invaluable and played a very important part in the success of this bid.

Alongside her many accolades Ruby is a highly qualified solicitor and has been in the legal field for over 30 years providing legal advice to all walks of life.

MINAL PATEL

Mina Patel is Head Chef at the award winning Prashad restaurant. She is the backbone of the famous eatery and has increased the popularity of the business, through carefully curated menu, appearing on TV shows and most recently becoming viral on social media with her cooking demonstrations.

Minal grew up in Gujarat, India, before meeting her husband Bobby and moving to the UK. Under the careful guidance of her parents-in-law Minal started working at the family business – Prashad and eventually took over the kitchen in 2004.

Minal has continued the Prashad legacy of authentic Gujarati food, while adding seasonal twists to the dishes using the best Yorkshire produce.

She has crafted a tasting menu where she can experiment with flavours - and it s been a hit with her customers.

She has won several awards and is now using her kitchen experience to influence and help others learn the art of gujarati cooking on the Prashad social media handles.

HARPREET KAUR, CO-FOUNDER, OH SO YUM

Harpreet Kaur impressed Lord Sugar on the BBC The Apprentice show in August last year and won his investment to start her business of dessert parlours and online dessert subscriptions company – Since winning Lord Sugar’s investment Harpreet has secured a prime site in Bradford and has been introducing her products into leading department stores. In addition to running her desserts business, Harpreet has been using her influence as a guest speaker at business networking events, such as Build Your Business event at City Hall.

Harpreet gave her tips for success in business, which included making sure a new business idea is commercially viable and picking yourself up after a failure in business.

DR SAIRA ALI

Saira Ali, is Team Leader of Landscape, Design and Conservation Team at Bradford Council. She has recently been honoured with an Honorary Doctorate from the University of Bradford in recognition of her work on the environment, climate change and the promotion of greener healthier communities.

Saira, grew up in Bradford, studied Landscape Architecture at Leeds Metropolitan University and since joining Bradford Council has been the recipient of numerous awards. Saira has led or worked collaboratively with a number of other organisations on a wide range of projects. She was the project lead for Bradford’s team in the URBACT Healthy Cities Action Planning Network, and on the current LIFE CRITICAL climate change mitigation project at Horton Park. These EU projects have brought Bradford’s knowledge and experience to a wider audience. Her team also supports the delivery of Better Start Bradford and Join Us: Move Play, working with partners on the link between the quality of outdoor space and our communities leading healthier lifestyles. She will also play a role in the regeneration projects to be funded by the recently announced Towns Fund Grants for Keighley and Shipley. In addition, she is a strong advocate for encouraging more women and people from diverse communities into the landscape design profession.

SYIMA ASLAM MBE

Syima Aslam MBE has once again retained her position as one of Bradford’s most influential. She is the founder and director of Bradford Literature festival which she established in 2014. Bradford Literature Festival, under Ms Aslam’s leadership, has changed the cultural landscape of Bradford and made a significant impact on the global literary landscape, bringing together literature from all genres and promoting intercultural fluency and platforming marginalised voices, embracing diversity, empathy, and artistic excellence.

Ms Aslam MBE uses her degree in economics and business finance from Brunel University and background in inward investment, automotive, data marketing and education sectors in the capital to create a real and lasting change in socio-economically deprived communities across Bradford.

In 2019, Ms Aslam MBE was appointed as a fellow of the Royal Society for Literature, she is a trustee and board member of the Piece Hall Trust and a council member for the Arts Council England. She is also a steering group member for Bradford 2025 City of Culture bid. Most recently, she was appointed Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the 2022 New Year Honours for services to literature. She has also been recognised in The Bookseller 150 (most influential people in UK publishing) for creating Britain’s most inclusive literature festival.

ANITA RANI

Anita Rani is a Bradford born television and radio presenter who will take on the highly influential role of the University of Bradford’s Chancellor in spring 2023.

Anita has carved a space for herself as one of the few - if not the first - Asian women to host documentaries, factual, and entertainment programmes on every major broadcaster, Anita is a much-loved household name.

An RTS Award winning broadcaster with a career spanning nearly 20 years, Anita Rani is a hugely popular presenter with TV audiences. As one of the lead presenters on BBC One’s Countryfile, Anita has become a familiar face on British television. Also presenting a range of shows including Secret Spenders, Aldi’s Next Big Thing, and Britain by Beach for Channel 4 as well as a range of explorative documentaries for the BBC including Bollywood: The World’s Biggest Film Industry; My Family, Partition and Me: India 1947 and more recently War on Plastics with Hugh and Anita alongside Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall. Recently she’s seen presenting the brand new game show Fastest Finger First for ITV. Her debut book The Right Sort of Girl was released in 2021, documenting her upbringing and the lessons she’s learnt growing up navigating her Indian world at home and the British world outside. It became a Sunday Times bestseller and received rave reviews upon release.

SAEEDA AHMED

Described as a solutions-based entrepreneur, Saeeda Ahmed leads by innovation, creativity, and simplicity in the education sector, business, and the halal economy.

Ms Ahmed has over two decades worth of experience in solution-driven ventures, creating awardwinning projects, businesses, and programmes to meet the needs of specific industries.

The Bradford entrepreneur was awarded a master’s in Community Enterprise from the University of Cambridge on women’s leadership in 2005. In 2001, Ms Ahmed left accountancy to establish Trescom, a company that worked with partners from different industries to bring about positive social change.

An accomplished keynote speaker, Ms Ahmed has delivered speeches to over forty international events and conferences, including at the United Nations in 2019 as an ambassador for inclusive and sustainable development.

The entrepreneur showcased her global influence when she spoke most recently at the World Halal Summit on how the halal economy must lead on social and environmental sustainability. She is the founder of the Global Islamic Trade Investment and Investment Forum.

Ms Ahmed is also the founding director of Education Partnerships UK, a British and international educator solution provider working with governments, corporate partners, and the NGO sector offering education technology and nursery to postgraduate accredited qualifications and labour market solutions.

The businesswoman is an ambassador for various Higher and Further education universities and colleges.

NAZ KAZMI

Naz Kazmi is Chief Executive of Keighley Association Women and Children’s Centre. She has lived in Keighley for most of her life and has 30 years’ experience of working with BAME women and children, particularly from a south Asian background. Naz has worked closely with communities and organisations designing, developing and delivering innovative programmes and research projects. These projects have focused on addressing social inequalities, which overlap with health, environmental behaviours, education and employment. Her hobbies are travelling, poetry and fine arts. Naz had major impact in helping to deal with vaccine hesitancy among women from black, Asian and minority ethnic groups, by helping to establish the UK’s first women only vaccine clinic here in Yorkshire. She is a leader, a grafter and has made a life changing impact for so many families across the region.

SAJIDA MUNEER

Sajida Muneer is headteacher of Feversham Girls Academy. The girls Islamic school led by Ms Muneer has been rated an ‘outstanding’ school by OFSTED. Through Ms Muneer’s leadership and influence, Feversham Girls Academy is one of the top ranked, only girl’s high schools in Bradford Ms Muneer puts this down to students playing an active role in local community as well as their studies. Feversham Academy is part of Feversham Education Trust - which previously donated around 200 face masks, protective goggles and glasses to the NHS at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.

A SMARTER WAY TO SUPPORT BRADFORD’S PATIENTS

Bradford hospital patients in need of spiritual, pastoral, or religious guidance can now use an innovative new app on their smartphone or PC to access help.

The app is the first of its kind in the country and has been funded by Bradford Hospitals’ Charity – the official NHS charity of Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. It was developed to meet the growing need for support from the Trust’s chaplaincy service, re-named the Spiritual Pastoral and Religious Care (SPaRC) team.

The web-based app (accessed via https://sparc.bradfordhospitals. nhs.uk/) contains a wealth of information, self-help support and multi-faith guidance in written, audio and video formats collated by the team who work from both Bradford Royal Infirmary and St Luke’s Hospital.

Mohammed Arshad, Head of the SPaRC team and Imam, explained that he had a relatively small team and that technology was the best way to supplement their service.

“We thought to ourselves, how do we reach around 1,100 beds?

Technology is the best way,” said Mohammed.

“We didn’t have anything like this during the COVID-19 pandemic, but we did learn a lot during that time. We know that having this resource now means that we can reach everyone in our hospitals.”

Mohammed said the app was tailor

made for patients in Bradford using his team’s wealth of experience visiting wards, speaking to patients and staff.

“When developing the app, we asked ourselves how do patients feel when they are in hospital and what would benefit them? What are they going through? And what is their hospital journey like? We know they are feeling anxiety, stress and asking

questions like ‘why me?’

So, we wanted to create an app which addressed all of this using videos and audio clips, which people can revisit whenever they want and ponder in their own time.”

Mohammed said clinical staff had helped to introduce the app to patients. “The patient and staff feedback has been fantastic,” he said. In fact the app has been such a success that other health trusts and organisations have expressed an interest in it, he added. There are also plans to add more faiths and a paediatric section for younger patients.

“We are very grateful to Bradford Hospitals’ Charity for believing in us, having faith in our plans and understanding where we wanted to go with this,” said Mohammed.

Sharon Milner, Director of Bradford Hospitals’ Charity, said: “We are delighted to support such an innovative and worthy piece of technology. Supporting the

wellbeing of so many people from a wide variety of faith and non-faith backgrounds is very humbling, and we are proud to be the first in the country to achieve this.

“We would certainly like to give further support to simple, yet widely effective projects such as this one, in the future.

“We are delighted to be able to deliver, in such a meaningful and worthwhile way, to the diverse communities we serve across Bradford and beyond.”

For more information about Bradford Hospitals’ Charity, or to make a donation, please visit https://bradfordhospitalscharity.org/

SPaRC team

SPaRC app

Legal Matters with Luke Patel OPINION

Luke Patel is a Partner at Leeds law firm Blacks Solicitors LLP specialising in commercial dispute resolution and heads up that team.

Luke has been named Leeds' most 'Influential South Asian 2021 by Asian Standard readers. Described in the Legal 500 as “exceptional” he primarily acts for individuals, owner managed businesses and SME’s in a wide range of sectors.

FAILING TO BEAT THE SYSTEM

Defence for noise-induced hearing loss which they claim had been caused during military service.

The High Court has rejected an attempt by a firm of solicitors to issue multiple claims on a single Claim Form.

Mansion Place Limited (“MPL”) was a property developer and it contracted Fox Industrial Services Limited (“FISL”) to build student accommodation in Nottingham. There were delays with the construction which FISL stated was due to the pandemic and MPL’s failure to give vacant possession of the site on time. MPL, on the other hand, claimed that the delay was due to FISL’s failure to progress the works and to commit sufficient labour and resources to the project.

In the case of Abbott & Others v Ministry of Defence Hugh James Solicitors represented 3,500 Claimants who were all seeking damages against the Ministry of

Hugh James sought to issue all 3,500 claims on one Claim Form for which there would be one issue fee payable to the court rather than 3,500 separate fees for each Claim Form.

The High Court Master ruled that it was impermissible to join multiple Claimants with widely different claims on a single Claim Form. The Master said that although the individual claims all

featured a common Defendant with some common themes, they were “far too disparate” and that they consisted of “a huge variety of unitary claims”.

Further, the Master noted that placing 3,500 separate claims with one Claim Form would put an impossible strain on the courts’ computerised case management system. He referred to an instance where the court staff had mistakenly closed an entire group action when they were informed

that (only) one of the cases from the group had settled. The Master directed that unless individual Claim Forms were issued within 6 months then the claims would be struck out.

Under English Law, it is possible to bring group actions where multiple Claimants issue one Claim Form. For example, the Claimants seeking compensation against car manufacturers in the diesel emissions litigation is being pursued as a group action. The ability to issue a group claim under a single Claim Form undoubtedly increases access to justice as, currently, Claimants need to pay a court issue fee equivalent to 5% of the value of their claim up to a maximum of £10,000 and this could be unaffordable for many Claimants who do not qualify for a fee remission, particularly in the current economic climate.

However, given that it is the Government’s intention to make the courts self-sufficient and less reliant on public funds, it is understandable that judges may view attempts to avoid paying court fees as an abuse of process. Therein lies the dilemma, affordability over access to justice even if it is at the expense of the taxpayer. Are we slowly creeping towards the privatisation of the court system?

Blacks Solicitors can provide assistance on all aspects of court and tribunal proceedings. If you require advice or assistance then please contact Luke Patel on 0113 227 9316 or email him at “LPatel@ LawBlacks.com”.

ROHIT SHETTY GETS BACK TO WORK WITH A BANDAGED ARM; SIDHARTH

IN AWE OF HIM

Bollywood actor Sidharth Malhotra has posted a video of filmmaker Rohit Shetty on Instagram with his right hand completely bandaged.

Sidharth will be seen playing the lead role in Rohit's upcoming series 'Indian Police Force'.

The filmmaker got injured when he was shooting a car action sequence on the sets in Hyderabad.

Sidharth also posted a video with him on Instagram. He wrote "A true master leads by example. We all know about @itsrohitshetty Sir's love for action and his passion towards the stunts he directs. Last night while performing a CAR STUNT action piece HIMSELF, he met with an unfortunate accident. After a sleepless night and a minor surgery he's back on set in less than 12 hours. Sir, you are an inspiration to all of us. Love n Respect."

In the video, the filmmaker expressed his gratitude and said "Thank you for all the concerns, prayers and so many calls. Nothing major has happened, just stitches in two fingers, that's it we are back to work."

Sidharth added "It's only him guys. The whole crew is here. He is all good, the OG rockstar. It's not even 12 hours and he's back on set."

Rohit also posted a picture from the sets and wrote in the caption "Another car topple...But this time with stitches on two fingers...Nothing to worry about, I am absolutely fine...Thank you so much for your love and concern... Shooting Indian Police Force for Amazon Originals in Hyderabad."

'Indian Police Force' also stars Vivek Oberoi and Shilpa Shetty Kundra in the lead roles and will premiere on Amazon Prime Video.

AJAY DEVGNS NEPHEW AAMAN TO MAKE HIS DEBUT IN ABHISHEK KAPOORS FILM

Bollywood actor Ajay Devgn's nephew Aaman Devgn is all set to make his Bollywood debut with Abhishek Kapoor's directorial action film.

As per media reports, he is all set to launch Aaman in his movie.

The shooting for this untitled project will be starting soon.

A source close to the production house told Pinkvilla "Abhishek Kapoor has been willing to explore the action-adventure space for a while now and his next story pushes him in this unchartered territory as a director. He is very excited to take the film on floors. He launches Aaman Devgan with the film, and it's an exciting space to tap on at this point of time. The film will be produced by Pragya Kapoor with Ronnie Screwvala."

According to the reports, Abhishek needed new and well-established faces and thus he thought of Ajay and Aaman. This will be Ajay's second time collaboration with Abhishek as earlier he did a cameo in his 2016 film 'Fitoor'.

"It's a big scale action adventure and the team is planning to create a certain world for the film. The characters will be presented in a certain way in this unique world of adventures created by Abhishek. The yet untitled film is slated to go on floors in the next few months," the source added.

On the work front, Abhishek is known for his movies such as 'Rock On', 'Kai Po Che', 'Fitoor', 'Chandigarh Kare Aashiqui', 'Kedarnath', among others.

HANSAL MEHTAS THRILLER FARAAZ TO RELEASE ON FEB 3

Director Hansal Mehta is back with another hard-hitting story titled 'Faraaz', based on the real-life terrorist attack that ravaged a Dhaka cafe in 2016, which will release on the big screen on 3 February.

Filmmaker Hansal Mehta said, "To me, Faraaz is a story of our polarised times. Through the one event that rocked Dhaka - the 2016 attack on the Holey Artisan cafe - I've tried to explore the broader theme of violence and what really drives young, vulnerable minds towards it."

"Designed as a nail-biting thriller that plays out over one tense night, my attempt

with Faraaz has also been to shine a light on the immense courage and humanity that it takes to stand up against violence. Because standing up against bigotry and the carnage it triggers is the only way to defeat it."

The film stars Zahan Kapoor, Aditya Rawal, Juhi Babbar, Aamir Ali, Sachin Lalwani, Palak Lalwani and Reshham Sahaani in the cast.

Producer Anubhav Sinha added "Faraaz is a story that needs to be told and Hansal has done justice to the story of the catastrophic event that shocked the world. It is a story about a hero who made

a brave choice and celebrates the spirit of a young boy who stood tall for his loved ones."

Producer Bhushan Kumar said, "Faraaz will surely strike a chord in your heart as it celebrates bravery, friendship, and humanity at its core. I am glad to be associated with such an important film."

The film is directed by Hansal Mehta, and produced by Bhushan Kumar, Anubhav Sinha, Sahil Saigal, Sakshi Bhatt and Mazahir M. The film is jointly produced by T-Series and Benaras Media works in association with Mahana Films.

SAMANTHA RUTH PRABHU REVEALS TOUGHEST PART OF SHOOTING FOR SHAKUNTALAM, DONT MISS HER QUIRKY CAPTION

VIJAY DEVERAKONDA GIFTS 5-DAY MANALI HOLIDAY TO 100 FANS

Actor Vijay Deverakonda's fans are truly lucky.

The 'Liger' star comes up with exciting gifts every year to make Christmas and New Year more special for his fans. This year, he is sending his 100 fans to Manali as a New Year gift from his initiative #Deverasanta2022.

Taking to Instagram, Vijay dropped a video in which he said, "Happy New Year, my love. This is a 'DeveraSanta Update'. I told you that I am going to send 100 of you on an all-expenses paid trip holiday, food, travel, and accommodation on me. I asked you guys where you want to go and every pole chose the mountains, so to the mountains we go."

He added, "I am sending 100 of you on a 5-day trip to Manali. You are going to see snow-capped mountains. You are going to see temples and monasteries, and we have a lot of activities planned! If you are 18+, I am sorry you have to be 18+, and you have been following me, just fill out the attached 'Devera Santa google document form and we are going to pick 100 of you".

Actor Samantha Ruth Prabhu revealed the toughest part of shooting for 'Shakuntalam' and shared pictures from the training session.

Taking to Instagram, the 'Oo Antava' star treated fans with a video of her pet dog and behind-thescenes picture from her upcoming movie sets.

Samantha was seen posing gracefully as her character in 'Shakuntalam' and flaunted her curves in the picture from a training session.

In the video, her pet dog Sasha could be seen lying on a couch.

Along with a post, she wrote a hilarious caption mentioning how grace is not either hers or Sasha's thing.

The caption read, "The toughest part of #Shakuntalam was maintaining grace and posture while walking, talking, running... even crying! And grace is sooo not my thing. Had to take training sessions for it! Should have taken Sasha along... clearly so not her thing either! #LikeMotherLikeDaughter."

Based on Kalidasa's acclaimed Sanskrit play Abhijnana Shakuntalam, the film is written and directed by award-winning director Gunasekhar (Rudhramadevi) and produced by Neelima Guna and Dil Raju under the banner of Gunna Teamworks and Dil Raju Productions respectively. The film also features Dev Mohan as Dushyanta, the king of the Puru Dynasty.

'Shaakuntalam' revolves around the epic love story of Shakuntala and King Dushyant, portrayed by Yashoda star Samantha and Dev Mohan of Sufiyum Sujatayum fame, respectively. It will be out in Hindi, Tamil, Malayalam, and Kannada.

The film will hit the theatres on 17 February 2023.

Samantha has been keeping a low profile ever since she was diagnosed with an autoimmune condition called Myositis.

A few months ago, Samantha revealed that she is diagnosed with an autoimmune condition called 'Myositis'.

The 35-year-old diva broke the silence on her health update via her latest social media post. She took to her Instagram handle and shared a picture of herself, sitting on a couch with an IV drip connected to her wrist.

She captioned the picture, "Your response to the 'Yashodha' trailer was overwhelming. It is this love and connection that I share with all of you, that gives me the strength to deal with the seemingly unending challenges that life throws at me. A few months back I was diagnosed with an autoimmune condition called Myositis. I was hoping to share this after it had gone into remission. But it is taking a little longer than I hoped. I am slowly realising that we don't always need to put up a strong front."

BAFTA 2023: SS RAJAMOULIS RRR MAKES IT TO NOMINATIONS LONGLIST

The British Academy has revealed the results of the first round of voting across all 24 categories for the 2023 BAFTA Film Awards, and this initial longlist included SS Rajamouli's 2022 blockbuster 'RRR'.

The period action movie featuring Ram Charan and Jr NTR scored one nod for Film Not in the English Language category.

Following the longlist's announcement, the movie's official Twitter handle expressed gratitude by tweeting, "Very happy to share that RRR is in the LONGLIST of #BAFTA FILM AWARDS. Thank you everyone. #RRRMovie @BAFTA."

According to The Hollywood Reporter, an American entertainment news outlet, other

TOM HANKS IS OVERCOME BY SELF-DOUBT WHEN HE WATCHES HIS FILMS

Hollywood star Tom Hanks chooses not to watch his hit movies.

While having doubts about his acting ability, the 66-year-old also has to wrestle with authenticity when looking back at his films.

"I wrestle with authenticity. I wrestle with the difference between lying for a living as an actor and lying to myself as a human being," Hanks said when speaking on 'The Great Creators with Guy Raz' podcast, reports aceshowbiz.com.

The two-time Oscar winner prefers not to watch his films again as it always leaves him with a sense of regret about his performance.

Hanks explained "(I see) the falsehood in them. I see the loss. I see that one time, 'Oh man, I missed that opportunity.'"

"And it's not because, at the moment, I chose not to - it's because, after it was done, I realised I didn't go far enough. I didn't go to the place that I could have gone."

"Then I asked myself, well, why? Was it

because I was satisfied with what I had? Was it because I wasn't up enough on the text? Was it because I didn't have enough of those ideas in my pocket? Or you know, was it because I was late that day and we had to rush the shot and instead of six passes, we only got two passes at it? That's where the self-doubt creeps in."

Hanks claimed that the 1994 film 'Forrest Gump', which landed him an Oscar for Best Actor - as one of the few movies where he gave his all.

The 'Cast Away' star recalled "We all sat together for weeks with (director Robert Zemeckis), and Bob was saying, 'Well, what do we make of that?'"

"We started at the beginning of the script and we all talked about everything. Even scenes we're not in, and what it meant to the text. That doesn't mean your own lines. You must know the text, because the text is the interpretation of the theme, and the theme is why you're all there in the first place."

films in the same category included 'All Quiet on the Western Front', 'Argentina, 1985', 'Bardo, False Chronicle of a Handful of Truths', 'Close', 'Corsage', 'Decision To Leave', 'EO', 'Holy Spider', and 'The Quiet Girl'.

Out of the lot, Netflix's anti-war epic 'All Quiet on the Western Front' emerged as an early frontrunner because along with Film Not in the English Language category it was also named in 15 categories, including best film and director.

Shaunak Sen's celebrated documentary 'All That Breathes' was also nominated.

However, Sanjay Leela Bhansali's period drama 'Gangubai Kathiawadi', starring Alia Bhatt in the titular role,

failed to make the cut.

This announcement, the result of the first round of voting which closed on 30 December, is only the third time BAFTA has published nominations longlists, a decision it made in 2020 as part of a major overhaul of its voting procedures aimed at addressing the lack of diversity at its film awards, reported The Hollywood Reporter.

The additional longlisting round -bringing the total rounds of voting to three -- was brought in among some 120 wide-ranging changes.

As per The Hollywood Reporter, the final list of nominations will be announced on 19 January 2023, with the ceremony due to take place on 19 February 2023.

PRIYANKA CHOPRA SEES OFF HUMA QURESHI AT NICK JONAS CONCERT, FLAUNTS HER CONVOY

Actor Priyanka Chopra was all jolly and giddy as she shared a fun banter with fellow actor Huma Qureshi.

The 'Quantico' star was spotted in a video posted to the Instagram stories of Huma, dressed in a black jacket along with denim jeans with a handbag.

"This is how @priyankachopra packs all of us off for the concert #convoy #2023," the 'Bell Bottom' actor captioned the video.

"We'll miss you," Huma was heard saying to Priyanka from behind the lens.

"I know. Look at my convoy," Priyanka replied with a giddy laugh as Huma panned the camera around to showcase the numerous black limousines standing in a line.

"Bye! Enjoy London," Huma replied before the video ended with Priyanka making a victory sign with her hands and smiling as she bade farewell.

In earlier Instagram stories, the 'Maharani' actor shared snippets from a concert of 'Jonas Brothers', including one where Priyanka's husband, singer Nick Jonas was performing.

"Jiju is a rockstar .. ufff @ nickjonas," she wrote with star emojis alongside the video.

Meanwhile, on the work front, Huma was last seen in the neo-noir comedy thriller film 'Monica, O My Darling' opposite Rajkummar Rao. Priyanka, on the other hand, will be seen in two important projects 'It's All Coming Back To Me', and the series 'Citadel'.

It's All Coming Back to Me will release in the US on February 10, 2023. The movie is based on the 2016 German film 'SMS fur Dich' by Karoline Herfurth, Deadline reported.

While 'Citadel' is a science fiction drama created by Russo brothers.

On the Bollywood front, Priyanka is expected to start shooting for Farhan Akhtar's directorial 'Jee Le Zaraa' in 2023. The film will also star Alia Bhatt and Katrina Kaif in lead roles. It is an all-female road trip story.

TAKE A LOOK AT WHAT’S COMING UP FOR JANUARY 2023

2022 was an unusual year for the Bollywood film industry, as it was recovering from the pandemic with boycotts trending and Pan Indian films ruling the roost. However, 2023 looks promising for the largest film industry in the world. Here’s taking a look at what’s in store for January.

PATHAAN

Starring: Deepika Padukone, Shahrukh Khan, John Abraham

Director: Siddharth Anand. Pathaan

Release date: 25 January 2023

Platform: Theatres

Pathaan is perhaps the most anticipated film of 2023, as it marks Shahrukh Khan’s return to the big screen after a Zero in 2018. The first look of the movie garnered a lot of attention, clocking up millions of hits for the teaser and its songs.

attire in the first released song Besharm Rang, proved to be a heartthrob, as well as courting controversy. Irrespective the song crossed 42 million views in about 2 days.

MISSION MAJNU

Starring: Siddharth Malhotra and Rashmika

Mandanna Director: Shantanu Bagchi

Release date: 19 January

Platform: Netflix

The film is described as the untold story of India’s greatest covert operation, taking place before and during the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971. Set in the 1970s, an undercover Indian spy takes on a deadly mission to expose a covert nuclear weapons program in the heart of Pakistan.

KUTTEY

Starring: Arjun Kapoor, Radhika Madan, Tabu, Konkana Sen Sharma, Naseeruddin Shah and Kumud Mishra

Director: Aasman Bhardwaj

Release Date: 13 January

Platform: Theatres

Kuttey is the directorial debut of renowned director Vishal Bhardwaj’s son, Aasman Bhardwaj. The black comedy thriller includes an ensemble cast and is a production of Vishal Bhardwaj Films, Luv Films, and T-Series Films. One rainy night in the outskirts of Mumbai, three stray gangs unknowingly cross paths on the hunt and it’s every man for himself.

GANDHI GODSE: EK YUDH

Starring:

Director: Rajkumar Santoshi

Release Date: 26 January Platform: Theatres

TRIAL BY FIRE

Director:

Release

Based on the 2016 book Trial by Fire: The Tragic Tale of the Uphaar Fire Tragedy by Neelam and Shekhar Krishnamoorthy, this drama series outlines the story behind the Uphaar Cinema fire mishap that occurred on 13 June, 1997 in Delhi. It caused 59 deaths and over 100 injuries. Abhay and Rajshri Deshpande are seen as struggling parents fighting the worst war of any parent’s life - the fight for justice after their kids' death and compensation for the families who lost loved ones.

Deepika Padukone saffron coloured

Chinmay Mandlekar and Deepak Antani. Debutants Tanisha Santoshi, Anuj Saini along with Arif Zakariya and Pawan Chopra will also be seen in pivotal roles.

Gandhi Godse provides an alternative ending to the real story of the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi by Nathuram Godse. In a turn of events, Gandhi survives the attempt at his life and renders Godse a visit in the prison. What happens next is an ideological debate that answers most Indians’ questions.

Starring: Rajshri Deshpande and Abhay Deol

Prashant Nair

Date: 13 January Platform: Netflix

FLASHBACK 2022

Even while it is difficult to argue on paper why Bollywood movies have failed, the hostility the industry has seen since the lockdown has left a mark. The boycott Bollywood movement have only fueled the already suffering industry efforts to find assistance.

As we enter a new year, we take a moment to reflect on the year that has just ended, 2022, and hope to learn from the failures and setbacks. We list some of the significant events that made headlines, occasions that altered the concept of Hindi film and shed some light on the failure of the business.

By UMA RAMASUBRAMANIAN

PAN INDIA TAKES OVER BOLLYWOOD

The days when regional film was despised are long gone. PAN India films have gained popularity over the world as times have changed. To state the obvious Pan India films such as RRR, Pushpa, KGF 2, Kantara gave Bollywood a run for its money.

It all started with the release of Bahubali a few years ago, and since then, the desire to travel across borders and understand the pulse of the audience across states has been a new trend that barely a few have mastered. The failure of each Bollywood films is directly compared to the success of pan India film unfortunately there is no definite conclusion on to why Hindi cinema failed to mint money. As OTT options have honed the Hindi audience's taste buds, the classic super stars of Bollywood are no longer bankable.

NAKED PHOTOSHOOT OF RANVEER SINGH

Ranveer dared it all and posed naked for a magazine which eventually ran into controversy. Several FIRs were filed against the actor. An NGO official claimed that the actor's images had offended the modesty of women in general and harmed their feelings. The FIR said that despite India's "wonderful

culture," everyone's feelings had been harmed by these images.

BOYCOTT LAAL SINGH CHADDHA AND NOW BOYCOTT PATHAAN

The boycott trend in Bollywood has been consistent since pandemic. While Aamir made an honest attempt to tell an incredible story and adaptation of Forest Gump his efforts went in vain. Nationwide ban was pushed as the actor was charged for insulting the Indian army and offending their feelings. The film eventually failed to make enough money to cover its costs.

Post Laal Singh now the next superstar Shah Rukh Khan is targeted for his film Pathaan. Since some individuals objected to Deepika's attire in the song, which included a saffron bikini, many have called for a boycott of the movie.

SAJID KHAN ON BIGG BOSS SEASON 16

Sajid Khan, a sex offender, received criticism for joining Bigg Boss Season 16. While the #MeToo movement, gave strength to several victims the show

took a different tack. Sajid Khan is still a member of the performance despite several criticisms of his participation.

LEGAL ISSUES WITH JACQUELINE FERNANDEZ

It has not been a great year for Jacqueline Fernandez as her name kept cropping up in a legal issue. The actress was accused in the INR200 crore money laundering case involving conman Sukesh Chandrashekhar. Fernandez who reportedly wanted to marry him received expensive gifts form the conman.

THE KASHMIR FILES CONTROVERSY

Since its release, the film has been a contentious topic, but near the end of 2022, a new controversy arose when Nadav Lapid, the head of the jury, addressed the audience during the IFFI closing ceremony and referred to the film as "propaganda, vulgar."

BRAHMASTRA CONTROVERSY

The film Brahmastra's teaser sparked controversy after a scene showed Ranbir Kapoor

in his shoes entering a place of worship. However, director Ayan Mukerji quickly clarified that Ranbir was entering a durga puja pandal.

AKSHAY KUMAR VIMAL AD

Akshay Kumar who enjoys a huge fan base had to face back lash for advertising Vimal Pan masala. Soon after the repercussions

the actor choose to pull back from the deal.

DEATH THREATS TO SALMAN

KHAN Stardom comes with a cost, and in Salman Khan's case, that cost was death threats. After receiving a letter threatening his life, Salman sought a firearms license.

PROMINENT INDIAN CELEBRITIES WE LOST IN

The article is incomplete unless we remember some of our favorite celebrities who have passed away leaving their fans in a state of shock. Celebrities including Lata Mangeshkar, K K, Bapi Lahiri, Raju Srivastava, Sidhu Moosewala, Pandit Birju Maharaj, Vikram Ghokale were some of the great personalities who lost their lives this year.

Naked photoshoot of Ranveer Singh

Jacqueline Fernandez

Lata Mangeshkar

While the controversies are beyond control, we hope the box office surprises us in 2023 and hope the cash register keeps ringing.

Akshay Kumar

By SAMUEL J. WHITE and PHILIPPE B. WILSON

Every day we are exposed to a wide array of potentially harmful microorganisms – such as colds, the flu and even COVID. But our immune system – a network of intricate pathways within our body – helps protect us against these microorganisms and other potential diseases. Essentially, it recognises foreign invaders, such as viruses and bacteria, and takes immediate action to defend us.

Humans have two types of immunity: innate and adaptive. Innate immunity is the body’s first-line of defence, primarily consisting of physical barriers (such as skin), and secretions – including mucus, stomach acid and enzymes in saliva and sweat which prevent microorganisms getting inside the body. It also consists of cells that attack all foreign invaders entering the body.

Adaptive immunity is a system that learns to recognise a pathogen. It’s regulated by cells and organs in our body such as the spleen, thymus, bone marrow and lymph nodes. When a foreign substance enters the body, these cells and organs create antibodies and multiply the immune cells specific to that harmful substance in order to attack and destroy it. They also remember the pathogen for future reference.

There are many things we can do to support our immune system and even improve its function. Simple changes to your diet and lifestyle can all play a big role in helping you avoid getting sick.

We are what we eat

The nutrients we get from the foods in our diet play key roles in both building and maintaining our immune system.

Take for example the amino acid arginine. This is essential for generating nitric oxide within immune cells, which is an important defence molecule against organisms. Vitamin A and zinc are crucial in the rapid reproduction of immune cells. Vitamin C contributes to immune defence by supporting the cell functions of both immune systems. Similarly, vitamin E has been shown to enhance immune responses in animals and humans and to provide protection against several infectious diseases, such as flu, COVID and the common cold.

A varied diet including fruits and vegetables, wholegrains, nuts, seeds, dairy products, as well as fish, meat, or plant protein alternatives, will all contain these key nutrients which support our immune health.

The vast combination of microorganisms that live in our gut –known as our microbiome – also have significant effects on our health and wellbeing, despite their tiny size. In fact, the microbiome is often referred to as

the “second brain” due to the extensive relationship it has with the body’s organs and systems.

One particular role the microbes in our gut play is supporting immune function. They help to control inflammation, the process the immune system uses to protect us from harmful pathogens. Ensuring the microbiome is healthy can improve immune function.

There are many ways we can support our microbiome through the foods we eat. For example, research has shown a Mediterranean diet, which is rich in vitamins, minerals and dietary fibre, has an anti-inflammatory effect in the gut,

which can help boost the body’s immune function.

This effect may be explained by a strain of bacteria known as Faecalibacterium prausnitzii which is key to immune regulation. This bacteria tends to be low in the western diet but abundant in the Mediterranean diet. You should also avoid too many refined cereals, sugars and animal fats, which can all heighten inflammation in the body which weakens the immune response.

Probiotics (supplementary blends of live bacteria) may also have benefits. Research has even shown a

probiotic

have a large impact on the immune system. It isn’t just chronic stress that suppresses the immune system either – even brief periods of stress (such as an exam) can worsen immune function. Fortunately, mindfulness meditation (which can help manage stress) may be beneficial for the immune system –though it isn’t entirely clear yet why.

Living a healthy lifestyle

Your lifestyle can also have a big effect on immune function.

For example, smoking affects both innate and adaptive immunity, causing it to both overreact to pathogens and lower its immunity defences. Alcohol has also been shown to increase susceptibility to both bacterial and viral infections.

It does this by altering the way our immune system defends against infections. Even moderate drinkers may have lower immunity.

Sleep is also crucial for maintaining immune function. Studies show that frequent, poor sleep causes inflammation in the body. This may worsen immune response, increasing infection risk and worsening infections.

Adolescents who only get around six hours of sleep are also more likely to suffer from common illnesses, such as cold, flu and gastroenteritis.

Stress is another factor known to

Exercise has also been shown to affect immune function, with research showing moderate-intensity physical activity in particular (such as a brisk walk or ballroom dancing) can improve immune response. However, it’s important to strike the right balance as long, intense exercise without sufficient rest between workouts can actually worsen immune function and make you more likely to catch an infection. And according to some data, this decrease can happen after only 90 minutes of moderate- to high-intensity physical activity.

Of course, vaccination remains the best way to prevent infection from many common diseases, such as the flu. But a good diet and lifestyle – alongside other preventative measures, such as washing your hands or wearing a face mask – help support your immune system and the effectiveness of vaccines.

ThisarticleoriginallyappearedinTheConversationandwas contributedbySamuelJ.White

AseniorLecturerinGeneticImmunologyatNottingham TrentUniversityand

PhilippeB.WilsonProfessorofOneHealthatNottingham TrentUniversity

blend of bacterial strains Lactiplantibacillus plantarumand and Pediococcus acidilactici reduced the amount of virus detected in the nose and lungs, as well as the duration of symptoms, in COVID patients.

Image: Shutterstock

The Mediterranean diet can help support the microbiome

Image: Sea Wave- Shutterstock

BRADFORD COUNCIL CHIEF ANNOUNCES RETIREMENT AFTER EIGHT YEARS SERVING THE CITY

Bradford Council Chief Executive, Kersten England took to social media site Twitter to announce her retirement, sharing an email sent to staff at Bradford Council.

Kersten England announced she will leave her role at the end of June 2023 after serving in local government for 33 years.

The screen shots of the Council chief’s email shared on Twitter read: "Dear Colleagues I write to let you know that, after 33 years in local government, 14 of which as a Chief Executive, I have decided to retire at the end of June of this year.

"But it is Bradford, where I have lived for over 30 years, working for the City of Bradford Metropolitan District Council for 20 years, eight of which as its Chief Executive, which has and always will have my heart. I know this to be an extraordinary place, full of talented, tenacious and generous people and served by 90 dedicated locally elected members.

"Over the last 8 years we ve achieved a great deal. There is renewed ambition, determination and confidence across our District.

"Winning designation as the UK City of Culture 2025 is the most direct recognition of this.

"But alongside this major regeneration and transport schemes are in delivery right across our District which will revitalise our city and town centres.

"I ’ ve always been passionate

economy' and rising wage levels. "I know how hard we work with the private sector, schools and the FE and HE sector to create the conditions for that to happen.

e of this job that the work is never finished. But I want to

start possible.”

Kersten went on to share how despite stepping down from her role as Bradford’s Chief Executive she will ‘never stop being a champion and advocate for Bradford’.

Since sharing the news, well wishers have taken to Twitter to wish Ms England well for the future.

Chief Executive of Leeds City Council, Tom Riordan tweeted: “You’ll be really missed Kersten from West Yorkshire, Yorkshire and local government. You’ve made a hugely positive difference and to have led councils through austerity, the pandemic and more is an achievement in itself. Thanks for everything you’ve done.”

Ed Anderson, Lord Lieutenant of West Yorkshire added: “Very sorry to hear this news Kersten but thank you for all you

have done for Bradford and the wider region. Very best wishes for your retirement.”

Councillor Susan Hinchcliffe, Leader of Bradford Council, said:

"I want to thank Kersten for all she has done for the district over the last eight years.

"Her personal energy, drive and belief in our place have been tremendous but after eight years in post, I know she would now like to retire to explore other interests. Even though she is retiring, as a local resident, she will continue to take a keen interest in the progress of the district and will enjoy the City of Culture celebrations in 2025 which she has played such a big part in securing for us."

However, while there were messages of good wishes, there were also some who were disappointed with Ms Englands’ leadership, particularly with Children’s Services.

Neil Terry tweeted: “Good riddance. The damage you have done to Children s Services means your legacy will be remembered for years to come.”

Waqar Hussain shared his feelings too: “Finally you see some sense. Do us all a favour and walk away from your post. You have been abysmal, thrown the council into special measures and so much for caring for the children of @bradfordmdc, far from it.”

Whatever your views on Kersten England’s leadership, Asian Standard wishes her all the best for the future.

Kersten England Bradford

Bradford Council chief Kersten England shares news of retirement on twitter

GLOBAL ECONOMY 2023: WHY THERE WILL STILL BE PLENTY OF PRESSURE ON FOOD PRICES IN THE YEAR AHEAD

By JOHN HAMMOND AND YIORGOS GADANAKIS

Shortly after Russia invaded Ukraine, the closely watched food price index of the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) reached its highest recorded level, stoking consumer prices across the world. In the UK, for example, the prices of many everyday items increased way ahead of inflation, with bread and eggs both up 18% in the year to December, and milk up 30%.

Such rises threatened food security, particularly in low and middle-income countries that rely heavily on Ukraine and Russia for grains and plant oils. That included many countries in Africa and Asia, which took 95% of Ukraine’s wheat exports in 2021 (roughly a tenth of the world supply).

Global food price inflation

This prompted much talk in the media about the potential for famine. Yet nearly a year after the invasion, the FAO food price index has returned to pre-invasion levels.

So why has pressure on prices reduced, and what are the prospects for the year ahead?

What happened in practice

You can’t look at food in isolation from COVID. Many people in the energy and food industries were either too ill to work or prevented from doing so because of pandemic restrictions, which squeezed supplies. When the world opened up and demand began to rise, food and energy prices went up too.

This made people particularly vulnerable to events in Ukraine. Once the war began, food-price inflation peaked because the markets were uncertain about whether production and exports would be hit, and how global supply chains would adapt.

Ukraine’s grain exports resumed after a UN deal was brokered in July to create a humanitarian corridor through the Black Sea. It also helped that the wheat harvest was larger than expected, even if large areas around the front line remain unharvested. Much of Ukraine’s corn has not been harvested either, for the additional reason that the drying

process is energy intensive and farmers struggled to afford the raised prices. Overall, Ukraine’s grain exports were down in 2022 by about 30% year on year.

Russia is normally an even bigger exporter of wheat than Ukraine, supplying about 15% of world demand. It’s harder to see what has happened to these supplies because the Russians stopped providing data, but certainly Moscow’s policy of only dealing with “friendly” countries will have affected availability for many countries too.

Countries that rely heavily on Ukrainian/Russian grains have been forced to shop elsewhere. For example Yemen and Egypt have imported more grain from India and the EU, paying higher prices than usual.

Several additional pressures on farmers have further squeezed the global food supply. Fertiliser prices have rocketed in the past two years. Russia, an important global supplier, has been stockpiling for domestic use. Elsewhere, heightened energy prices have squeezed output. In the UK, the largest nitrogen-fertiliser facility suspended production during 2022.

Average fertiliser prices for UK farmers are now 18% higher than the winter before the Ukraine invasion, and 66% higher than two years ago.

Extreme weather in summer 2022 was another problem, including heatwaves and drought in northern Europe, America and China, flooding in Pakistan and drought in Argentina. Irrigation has become more difficult in areas that depend on it, while in Europe drought conditions have reduced the supply of crops for animal feed and harvest of grass for silage. Meat and vegetable prices have both gone up as a result.

According to the UN’s World Food Programme, the overall effect of inflation, war and extreme weather has been that many people around the world have had their access to food restricted. The number of people facing severe food insecurity is up 20% since the war began.

The outlook

Wholesale gas and oil prices have at least declined from their 2022 highs, which will benefit the entire food supply chain. This is one reason why

inflation eased slightly in the autumn in many countries.

Oil and gas prices

This will have taken some of the heat out of the global food price index. Cereals, meats and particularly vegetable oil prices all fell towards

remains historically high.

For the year ahead, the area of crops planted in Ukraine is estimated to be 17% down on 2022. Farmers in other countries are planting more wheat and maize to compensate, though the overall supply will still be pressured by higher farming costs and potentially more extreme weather.

Fertiliser prices will probably stay high as supplies remain restricted. Farmers in wealthier countries may keep applying normal quantities to their crops, like on previous periods of raised prices. But in poorer countries they may cut back, threatening yields and quality and exposing smallholder communities to greater food insecurity.

In sum, many staples will likely remain in tight supply in 2023, meaning price pressures continue. Retailers will be forced to either absorb the costs or pass them on to consumers. Governments will have to consider how to both support struggling consumers but also farmers to maximise what they produce.

At the international level, there needs to be an urgent fertiliser supply agreement to minimise disruptions, prioritising access for vulnerable communities in developing countries. Longer term, farming needs to reduce its dependency on fertilisers by developing agricultural practices that optimise the cycling of nutrients.

the end of the year, though sugar and dairy prices went in the opposite direction. Overall food price inflation

This includes more efficient use of manures and extracting nutrients from sewage, and using more legume crops in rotations to take advantage of the fact that they enhance nutrients in the soil. There also needs to be more precision farming techniques to target resources within fields to where they will be used most efficiently.

These practices are well adopted in western countries, but other parts of the world lag behind – particularly developing countries. Fertilisers will always be part of the farming system, but we’ll make food production more sustainable if we can get these things right.

ThisarticleoriginallyappearedinTheConversationandis partoftheirGlobalEconomy2023series,contributedbyJohn HammondProfessorofCropScience,UniversityofReading andYiorgosGadanakisAssociateProfessorofAgricultural BusinessManagement,UniversityofReading

Fertiliser restrictions are likely to be more felt in poorer countries.

Image: Stockr

RECIPE MALAI CHICKEN CURRY

Malai is often referred to as a rich type of clotted cream originating from the Indian subcontinent and was particularly used in cooking to make curries more rich and creamy.

Malai is the perfect cooking ingredient and this Malai chicken curry from Supreme Ingredients vast recipe book, is just the perfect way to start the year. Give it a go

INGREDIENTS

METHOD

Heat a pot over low-medium heat. Add oil, onions, cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, cloves and black peppercorns, cook until onions have turned golden brown. Then add chicken, garlic and ginger paste, black pepper and green chillies, mix well and sear the chicken. Turn the heat down to low, cover and cook until chicken is fully cooked through. Uncover, turn the heat up to medium, add cumin powder, cook for 1 minute then pour in cream and water. Stir well and simmer for 20 minutes. Garnish with fried onions and chopped almonds.

CROSSWORD

Deepika Padukone in Pathan

They are the sons of English league football's first turbaned referee Jarnail Singh, who took charge of more than 150 EFL games between 2004 and 2010, but none in the Premier League.

Trailblazer Jarnail still remains active as a referee in both the Combined Counties League as well as at Khalsa Football Federation (KFF) tournaments.

"For the Sikh community and all South Asians who dream of a career in the game, seeing Bhupinder officiate in the Premier League is absolutely massive," he told Sky Sports News.

"As a father, you can imagine I am very proud to see Bhupinder in the Premier League. It's every father's dream to see their children

you can do with hard work, endeavour and passion for the game.

"His hunger for it has been phenomenal in the last few years and I hope both he and my eldest son Sunny can help encourage more South Asians to take up refereeing."

Speaking to Sky News, Sunny Singh said: “We want the sport to be more diverse and inclusive. So if we can be in the limelight a little bit, just to show people that anyone can do it and make it because we have. It s only a positive, but it does add a little bit of pressure I am the role model, because at the end of the day I will only see myself as a proper role model if I make it to the top of the game, where my dream is”

Bhups is a PE teacher and England's highest ranking assistant referee, while Sunny the older brother is a prison officer in Feltham he is the most senior South Asian referee in the country and the brothers want to reach the top flight of English football.

Jarnail, who has previously gained Premier League experience as a fourth official, was beaming with pride as he attended the match at St Mary's to watch his youngest son make history.

succeed, and do better than them, and achieve more - whether that is in terms of family life, education or sport.

"Hopefully, Bhupinder's achievement highlights what

Bhups said: “My next step is to be promoted to the Premier League and that is the ultimate dream at the end of the day. We got this far in 10 – 12 years, we have time on our hands now to make it to that next step. So for me it s being an a ssistant referee on the Premier League.”

T10 SPORTS MANAGEMENT DENIES CORRUPTION REPORT

The T10 sports Management has denied reports of any corrupt practices and said that the competition is under International Cricket Council (ICC) probe for illegal practices.

As per media reports on 7 January, the ICC's AntiCorruption Unit (ACU) has received several reports regarding corrupt practices in the recent edition of the Abu Dhabi T10 which took place from November 23 to December 4, 2021.

The T10 Sports Management in a statement denied the charges and said, "As a responsible event owner, we host the tournament at a high-quality international stadium. We attract some of the world's best players, while also developing local talent and employing international level ICC and ACC match officials and referees."

"We contract the ICC to manage and investigate any allegations of corruption, which then fall under their scope to manage. We have not been notified on any anti-corruption issues and will continue to take the lead of the ICC," the statement added. The 2022 season was the sixth edition of Abu Dhabi T10. The league saw participation from some of the best players around the globe. Shakib Al Hasan, Andre Russell, Moeen Ali, Dwayne Bravo, Kieron Pollard, Sikander Raza and Wanindu Hasaranga are some of the notable names.

Defending champions Deccan Gladiators once again stamped their authority in the Abu Dhabi T10 by recording an emphatic 37-run win over debutants New York Strikers in the final of the sixth edition of the Abu Dhabi T10 at the Abu Dhabi Zayed Cricket Stadium.

Image: Shutterstock

Bhupinder Singh Gill makes history as the first Sikh Punjabi to act as an assistant referee for a Premier League game

Jarnail Singh with sons Bhupinder and Sunny Singh Gill

Image: Twitter

MMA HAS ITS FIRST CHAMPION OF GEORDIE BANGLADESHI ORIGIN, AND HIS NAME IS SHAJIDUL HAQUE

Another devastating knockout meant that Haque snatched the Cage Warriors Flyweight strap off

Creasey on Saturday 31 December 2022.

These two fighters faced off six

years ago, with Haque winning via unanimous decision on that occasion. However, that was a long time ago, and both men have matured as Mixed Martial Artists since then. As a result, many expected this fight to be different.

The opening stages suggested the same as well. Creasy had the better of the striking in the first two rounds and hurt Haque early with a good straight right.

‘Urai ' even dropped Haque in the third, although the man from South Shields claimed that ‘he slipped because of the matting in the cage after the fight.

Haque believes “that he should be in the UFC now” and that he is “the best Flyweight in Europe and has been for the last six years.” Last night he backed up that claim, and it would not be a surprise if Dana White came calling with a contract if Haque defends his title.

Saj had a magnificent year winning 4 titles defeating the Polish No1, French No1 and UK No1, Won and defended the Almighty Fighting Championship Title and now becoming the Cage Warriors World Champion. Surely UFC awaits him now

EXCITED TO PLAY WITH POLLARD, POORAN: MUHAMMAD WASEEM

Dubai , January 7: A number of players in the UAE have had dreams of playing with the best cricketers in the world and the International League T20 will make all those dreams come true when the tournament will be played this January-February.

The inaugural edition will be hosted across Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah with six teams battling for the trophy.

Opening batter Muhammad Waseem, who has scored 743 runs in 20 T20s, said he can't wait to play alongside Kieron Pollard in the MI Emirates camp.

"I am feeling very happy, and I feel lucky to be a part of such a big franchise. I will try my best to prove myself during the tournament. This is a huge moment for us which I can't put in words. I will try to play my best and showcase the talent that UAE has. I can't wait to meet Kieron Pollard and play alongside him. I played with him in Abu Dhabi T10 as well."

Asked about how he started cricket, the UAE player said, "I have been interested in cricket since my childhood days. I started playing the game seriously in 2014. I played for my school and then went on to play at the district

level, which is where my passion grew for the game."

Meanwhile, wicketkeeper-batter Vriitya Aravind, who has scored 536 runs and effected 12 catches and three stumpings in 25 T20s, said that he always wanted to play for the MI franchise, "It's an honour and a privilege to represent one of the most successful cricket franchises in the world. I saw Sachin Tendulkar play for MI (in the IPL) and I wanted to represent the franchise at some point in my life and therefore I feel lucky to get a chance to be a part of the MI Emirates at an early age. I am looking forward to playing with Nicholas Pooran since we have similar roles as a top-order batter and wicketkeeper. I think I will keep pestering him with questions."

Aravind also spoke about the moment which inspired him to be a cricketer, "I was born in India, and everyone wants to play cricket there. And I was in the country when India won the 2011 ICC Men's World Cup. That is my first memory of watching an entire World Cup and I also celebrated on the streets when India won it. I made up my mind on that day that I want to be a cricketer and play in the World Cup."

The MI Emirates will be in action when they take on Sharjah Warriors in their first match of the DP World ILT20 at the Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi on 14 January 2023, a release said.

Making its debut on 13 January (2023), the inaugural DP World ILT20 promises to be a high-octane competition with some of the greatest cricketing superstars on the planet set to make their way to the UAE to kick off the league. The league will be played in a 34-match format across the UAE's exemplary, world-class cricket facilities in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah.

Franchise teams, comprising over 100 International and 24 UAE-based players, include Abu Dhabi Knight Riders (Knight Riders Group), Desert

Vipers (Lancer Capital), Dubai Capitals (GMR), Gulf Giants (Adani Sportsline), MI Emirates (Reliance Industries) and

Cricket fans across the world can catch the live telecast of this exciting cricket league on Zee's linear channels, digital platform, Zee5 as well as Zee Cinema, Zee Anmol Cinema, and Pictures, and Flix, Zee Zest, Zee

Bangla

DP World ILT20 news, updates and interactive chat can be found via www.ilt20.ae and @ILT20Official on YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn, while tickets can be purchased by visiting https//tickets. ilt20.ae.

Muhammad Waseem

Sharjah Warriors (Capri Global).

Cinema, Zee Thirai and on CricLife across the UAE and MENA regions.

Saj Haque with his team

Shajidul Haque MMA Champion

Image: Twitter

Kieron Pollard

BROTHERS BHUPINDER AND SUNNY SINGH GILL MAKE ENGLISH FOOTBALL HISTORY BECOMING THE FIRST SOUTH ASIANS TO OFFICIATE IN THE SAME CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH

BANGLADESHI CLINCHES MMA WORLD CHAMPION

KAMLESH PATEL TO STEP DOWN AS YORKSHIRE COUNTY CRICKET CLUB CHAIR

The Yorkshire County Cricket Club today announced that Lord Kamlesh Patel will step down as Chair at the Club's next Annual General Meeting.

Patel, who joined Yorkshire in November 2021, has overseen a significant period of change which culminated in international cricket returning to Headingley.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion have been at the heart of this change to ensure that Yorkshire Cricket is a Club for everyone. Key changes have included offering a safe space for whistleblowers to report discrimination, integrating goldstandard governance processes under the guidance of the Good Governance Institute and working to achieve accreditation with the National Centre for Diversity as read in a statement released by the Yorkshire Cricket Club.

Important steps have also been taken to ensure that matchdays at Headingley, Scarborough and York are more inclusive and offer a friendly atmosphere for all. Others

key changes to the matchday experience at Headingley have included the introduction of a texting service to report discriminatory behaviour confidentially, more familyfriendly alcohol-free areas and sensory rooms to offer a calmer space for those with sensory processing issues.

Removing cost barriers and creating opportunities to diversify Yorkshire's Pathway programme has already seen great success.

The boys Pathway programme has seen a nearly 40 per cent increase in attendees for regional observations and an increase of 60% of cricketers selected from a diverse background at County Age Group when compared with 2021. Girls County Age Group nominations have already increased by 60.7 per cent from 2021.

Kamlesh Patel, The Yorkshire County Cricket Club Chair said, "It has been an honour and a privilege to work for such a prestigious organisation. I have made the difficult decision to step aside at the next AGM and enable the Club to continue on

its important journey of change under a new Chair. I would like to thank those Members who have been hugely supportive of the changes that the Board have introduced at Headingley. I would also like to thank the staff and Board Members who have all worked tirelessly during what has been a transformational period in Yorkshire's history. There is still much for the Club to do, but I have the strongest faith that Yorkshire will be back at the pinnacle of English cricket for the long-term."

Stephen Vaughan, The Yorkshire County Cricket Club Chief Executive said, "Kamlesh should be extremely proud of what he has achieved at Headingley during his tenure as Chair. The structures that have been put in place are vital in ensuring that Yorkshire is a Club that people are proud to be associated with. Equality, Diversity and Inclusivity are at the heart of our Club and I am excited to work with the Board, executive team and new Chair to continue on this journey of meaningful change."

Kamlesh Patel