The Aziz Foundation Celebrates a Decade of Impact with Inaugural Social Impact Awards at the British Library

London – 13th November 2025 – The Aziz Foundation (Charity Reg: 1169558) proudly hosted its inaugural Social Impact Awards last night at the British Library’s King’s Library Gallery, marking a decade of advancing diversity, inclusion and opportunity across the UK.

Set against the awe-inspiring backdrop of King George III’s private collection - a tower of 65,000 volumes symbolising the nation’s commitment to knowledge and enlightenment - the event celebrated individuals and organisations whose work is shaping a fairer, stronger Britain. Home to one of the nation’s greatest scholarly collections, the King’s Library stands as a testament to Britain’s intellectual heritage - a fitting setting for The Aziz Foundation, whose work champions education, civic duty and shared belonging. Over the past decade, the Foundation has supported more than 700 British Muslims through fully-funded master’s scholarships, while also coordinating countless internships and mentorships, empowering the next generation to achieve their full potential.

Hosted by Ateeq Salik and Furvah Shah, both Aziz Alumni, the ceremony honoured universities, scholars, journalists and community groups who exemplify resilience, leadership and purpose.

AWARD WINNERS

Aziz Inclusion Award – De Montfort University
Recognised for going above and beyond to create an inclusive environment for Muslim students.

Outstanding Research Award – Centre for Media Monitoring
For the report “BBC on Gaza-Israel: One Story, Double Standards”, a bold example of research advancing knowledge with purpose.

Rising Star Scholar – Irfan Suleman
For exceptional leadership and promise as an emerging voice of positive change.

Community Partner Award – Young Westminster Foundation
Championing the next generation and ensuring young people are heard, supported and empowered.

Chair’s Rockstar Award – Maira Butt
Honoured for her outstanding contribution to journalism and community storytelling.

The Aziz Foundation Legacy Award – Ramadan Tent Project
Recognised for its long-standing impact on national community cohesion and inclusion.

Additional acknowledgements included Ayesha Ahmed (Outstanding Mentor), Dr Tom Weir (Academic Ally), The Independent (Organisational Recognition), Dr Nahim Ahmed MBE (Outstanding Work), Nada Aggour (Outstanding Work), and Mahnoor Shoaib (Values Champion).

In a voice message played on the night, Founder and Chair of The Aziz Foundation, Asif Aziz, reflected on the qualities that define the Foundation’s "rockstars":

“When I use the word "rockstar", I’m not talking about fame or fortune. I’m talking about people who hustle, who are hungry and use their talent to lift others. Someone with drive, focus, ambition, resilience - who takes every opportunity and turns it into something remarkable.”

Joe Dobson, Director at The Aziz Foundation, commented:

"The Aziz Foundation Social Impact Awards were about celebrating Britain at its best - people and institutions who are bringing others together, widening opportunity and strengthening our shared future. To do that in the King’s Library Gallery surrounded by centuries of learning, reminded us of the importance of education, inclusion and service."

Rahima Aziz BEM, Trustee at The Aziz Foundation, said:

"Yesterday evening was an extraordinary moment of reflection and pride. Our inaugural awards celebrated those helping to shape a more confident, compassionate Britain; a country where everyone feels they belong and can make a difference. That spirit of contribution and community lies at the heart of everything we do at The Aziz Foundation."

The Aziz Foundation Social Impact Awards conclude a year-long celebration of its 10th anniversary, which has included the Foundation's annual Ramadan Lights London initiative, an inaugural Eid Party, a memory collection project and the unveiling of a landmark mural inside its forthcoming West End community centre.