A WEST Yorkshire woman, who is believed to be the only Hijab-wearing Asian female train conductor, has been recognised at an awards ceremony. 

Zahida Sultana, 24, who has worked for the train operator Northern since July 2020, was named as a runner-up in the public sector category at the Yorkshire Asian Young Achiever Awards.

The scheme celebrates people who have overcome deprivation and disadvantage or have broken down traditional barriers to progress.

Zahida said: “It was an honour to receive this as a reward for my representation of young Asian females working within the railway industry.

"I would like to thank my manager Kelly and all of Northern for all the support I have received.”

She added: “I was aware the railway was driving more women to join but I had never seen a Hijab-wearing Asian female in the conductor role.

"I was motivated to change this and represent all young Asian females in this sector.

“Upon joining Northern I was greatly welcomed and was not made to feel out of place at all.”

Tony Baxter, regional director for Northern, said: “Congratulations to Zahida.

"She is a fantastic colleague and makes a difference to the business every day.

"We are all very proud of her achievement.”