A Bradfordian - who became the first Muslim woman to lead a major British charity - has been shortlisted for a prestigious award.

Ridwana Wallace-Laher, CEO of Penny Appeal, is nominated for Woman of the Year in the 21st Asian Achievers Awards.

She is named alongside Dr Lalitha Iyer, Rukshana Kapasi, and Saloni Bhijwani and Samira Ann Qassim.

Nearly 700 people are expected to attend this year’s Asian Achievers Awards at London Hilton on Park Lane.

High-profile guests include celebrities, senior ministers, global stars and influencers.

Ridwana’s name was among more than 500 nominations received across all categories. 

This year’s shortlist includes accomplished figures across various fields - including Anwar Uddin MBE, who became the first British-Bangladeshi player in English football history.

Judges were chosen to represent a wide cross-section of society from charity, public services, business, entrepreneurship and politics.

Speaking about this year’s programme, Liji George, commercial director at the Asian Achievers Awards, said: “We see in the shortlist that the awards represent the best and brightest in South Asian excellence across the country. 

“We have community leaders, innovators and job creators that have added to the social, cultural and business fabric of the UK. Congratulations to all the shortlists and best of luck for the awards.”