AN organisation that breaks down barriers in the world of sport has been shortlisted for two awards.
The Bangla Bantams, a Bradford City supporters’ group, has been shortlisted for the Fan Group Award at the Asian Football Awards 2024.
The group was established in 2015 to make football more accessible to the South Asian community - and is no stranger to awards, winning previous accolades such as the Fans for Diversity Award at the Football Supporters’ Association Awards in 2015 and the Social Inclusion Project of the Year at the British Muslim Awards in 2020.
BEAP has also been shortlisted for the Mind Wellbeing Award at the Sporting Equals Awards, which recognises initiatives that use physical activity to improve mental health in Bradford’s ethnically diverse communities.
Hiron Miah, chair of BEAP and Bangla Bantams, said: "We are incredibly proud to be shortlisted for the Fan Group Award. It reflects the dedication of everyone involved in Bangla Bantams and the power of football to unite people from diverse backgrounds.”
Shahidur Rahman, executive director of BEAP, said: "Being shortlisted for the Mind Wellbeing Award is a true honour and reflects the hard work we’ve done in Bradford to support mental and physical wellbeing through sport.”
So far this year, the group has organised match day experiences for South Asian women, many of whom had never attended a football match before; established a walking football team that competes in the local league; collaborated with the BBC on a Radio 4 drama based on South Asian women becoming active members of the football community, and hosted inclusive England Watch Parties during the Euros, attended by hundreds of fans, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds.
The group also launched the Bradford City Fan Zone at BEAP, a family-friendly space offering free pre-match activities for young fans, ensuring football is accessible to children aged 0-16 and their families.
BEAP provides culturally sensitive places for men and women to play sports such as badminton, football, and tennis. These initiatives help build confidence, improve social connections, and support mental resilience in the community, addressing mental health challenges.
The 2024 Asian Football Awards will be held on Wednesday, September 25, at Wembley Stadium.
The aim of the awards is to showcase the diverse talents of coaches, volunteers, players, administrators, and fans in the South Asian community.
To vote for the Bangla Bantams for the Fan Group Award at the Asian Football Awards, visit www.asianfootballawards.com.
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