Bradford’s doctor Amir Khan praised media professionals from across the UK at the annual Asian Media Awards.
Journalists and broadcasters joined actors and presenters at the 12th ceremony, which celebrates achievements in a range of categories in TV, radio, stage, online and creative media.
The ceremony took place at the Hilton Manchester Deansgate.
This year’s event was hosted by Diversity and Inclusion Reporter at Sky Sports News Miriam Walker-Khan.
NHS doctor and author Amir Khan, joined acclaimed actress Amy-Leigh Hickman, football referee Sunny Gill Singh, social media star and comedian Shabaz Al and writer and actor Ameet Chana in presenting the honours
The night saw presenter, broadcaster and podcaster, Sangita Myska named the 2024 Media Personality of the Year and Deputy Political Editor at ITV News, Anushka Asthana, named Journalist of the Year.
Dr Amir and Sky Sports journalist Um-E-Aymen rewarded the pioneering efforts of Dr Shani Dhanda by presenting her with the Diversity in Media Award.
As the only visibly disabled South Asian woman working on screen and behind the scenes, Shani has broken down barriers and amplified the voices of marginalised communities and beyond.
Shani's on-screen presence has been crucial in shaping how media portrays diversity. She has appeared on among others, Rip Off Britain, This Morning, Morning Live, Sunday Morning Live, Con or Cure, Loose Women, Good Morning Britain and Jeremy Vine on 5.
Speaking on stage Shani said: “This is my first time attending and I am honoured to be awarded.
“The reason I entered the media industry is because I wanted to be part of the change that I wanted to see in society.
“I have only seen four disabled people of colour on my screen. I didn’t say South Asian because if I said South Asian it would probably be one and that does not include me.
“I got sick and tired of being told we are underrepresented. We are not underrepresented; we are over excluded.”
Posting a picture with Sangita Myska, Dr Amir said: “Such a fantastic evening at the Asian Media Awards.
“Celebrating the work of South Asian people in the Media, it’s really motivated me to work harder to represent my community to the very best of my abilities
“It was so good to see our stories being told
“And huge congratulations to Sangita Myska for winning Media Personality of the Year - a fearless powerhouse of a woman.”
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