Luton Borough Council

04/01/2023 - Congratulations to Luton leaders honoured by His Majesty

Luton Council sends its warmest congratulations to Mr Qazi Abdul Aziz Chishti and Mr Chris Curtis who were both awarded MBE in King Charles’ first New Year’s honours List.

Imam Qazi has been honoured for his outstanding record of service to the Muslim community with the Jamia Islamia Ghousia Trust and the Luton Sunni Council of Mosques. He has also served the people of Luton as honorary chaplain at Luton and Dunstable Hospital for over 40 years and during the Covid pandemic when he personally oversaw and led over 100 funerals.

Chris Curtis, the founder and Chief Executive of Youthscape, was honoured for his work with youth in Luton.

Cllr Hazel Simmons MBE, leader of Luton Council said: “I am so pleased to see two of our most deserving local leaders have been honoured this year.

“Imam Qazi has promoted cohesion and integration across all the diverse communities and faiths in our town and this honour is a tribute to his years of faith and welfare support to the Muslim community in Luton, including religious education to both youth and elders.”

“Chris Curtis has excelled in leading youth organisations over a number of years, both in Luton and on a national and international stage. Chris helped set up Youthscape, which has supported thousands of young people since its creation in 1993.”

“Congratulations to both of them for this recognition of the vital work they do for the people of Luton and the examples they set of community service.”