COMEDIAN and radio personality Noreen Khan has urged anyone who is eligible to make sure they enter this year’s YAYA awards.
Noreen, who will be the host of the glittering gala presentation night later this year, hosted a virtual ceremony for 2020’s event, and says the stories of those nominated were all moving, with the winners and those shortlisted showing real bravery and determination.
Entries are open until July 19th for the awards scheme which celebrates the achievements of young people of South Asian heritage who were born or live and work in Yorkshire.
Aimed at socially-mobile young achievers who have overcome deprivation and disadvantage or have broken through traditional barriers to progress, the awards attracted scores of entries in its very first year, despite the difficulties created by the pandemic.
The YAYAS are organised by the Bradford-based QED Foundation, a registered charity which exists to improve the social and economic position of disadvantaged communities in partnership with public, private and civil society organisations, along with their headline partners, York St John University.
Noreen, a stand-up comedian and award-winning BBC Radio presenter, currently hosts a show on the BBC Asian Network. She is looking forward to hosting a physical event this year after last year’s virtual ceremony.
She said: “I was overwhelmed by the courage and determination shown by all those that were nominated in last year’s YAYAs. The stories of these young people really moved me.
“The YAYAs are open to any young person of South Asian heritage – Pakistani, Indian, and Bangladeshi etc – who was born in, lives or works in Yorkshire. Many of those nominated overcame deprivation and are able to become real role models to others in their local communities.”
Dr Mohammed Ali OBE, chief executive of QED, said: “We are delighted to have such a talented host as Noreen back for this year’s awards. We can’t wait to see her in person after last year’s online event.”
The prestigious gala awards night is due to take place at the Cedar Court Hotel, Bradford, with catering by My Lahore, on November 4.
To enter, visit theyayas.org.uk. The closing date for nominations is Monday, July 19, 2021.