30/09/2024 - Luton ‘trailblazers’ honoured on national stage for inspiring next generation

Alia Khan, 28, is a Policy and Public Affairs professional in the housing sector where she formulates and delivers lobbying and government influencing strategies and initiatives advocating for more accessible homes for people with disabilities; successfully securing meetings with MPs and key decision makers and presenting evidence at hearings. She’s also led on policy developments across health, education, SEND, mental health and children’s services.

Alia, who also serves Luton’s communities as a youth mentor, local councillor, school governor and homelessness charity board member, was also recognised for her years of advocacy in which she voices the concerns of disadvantaged young people and speaks out in support of marginalised communities.

Alia commented: “I feel incredibly shocked and humbled to feature in this list and I am so pleased that my hometown of Luton has been heavily featured. I’ve never felt comfortable with praise or recognition in this way and just hope that some of the work that I do betters the development of children and young people in our community and helps those in society who are disadvantaged through no fault of their own.”

Hannan Ali, 31, a Funding Manager at City Bridge Foundation, who also serves as Deputy Lieutenant of Bedfordshire, leads on various place-based grant-making programmes ranging from tackling exploitation and building inclusive services, to growing sector infrastructure and creating a greener environment.

Hannan has also worked across community and international development, small business management, philanthropy and youth mentoring, and volunteers for a number of Luton charities and community projects.

Hannan commented: “I am delighted and honoured to be included in the list which celebrates future leaders within the British Muslim community. My thanks to both The Aziz Foundation and the Emerald Network who serve as fantastic platforms to showcase the best talent within British Muslim Communities, spanning a diverse range of sectors and professions.”

Anwar Hussain, 39, a Chartered Financial Planner, founded Blackstone Wealth Ltd which was launched to provide trusted independant financial advice to UK clients on ethical and shariah compliant investments and pensions. 

Anwar persevered as he faced numerous barriers, red tape and rejections, before successfully setting up the company which has brought to the market his vision for cost efficient investment products for the conscious Muslim ethical investor.

Anwar commented: “I am genuinely humbled to be considered alongside many remarkable individuals who are making significant positive change within British society. My own nomination for this award is in recognition of the challenges I’ve faced in launching Blackstone Wealth while juggling family, work and educational commitments.”

Councillor Tahmina Saleem, Mayor of Luton, said: “My heartfelt congratulations to these three remarkable Luton leaders who are making such a positive difference to UK society. For their hard work, achievements and leadership to be recognised in this way is testament to the talent we have here in Luton and I’m sure will be hugely inspiring to young people across the town.”

A joint statement from Rooful Ali, Emerald Network founder, and Rahima Aziz, Trustee of the Aziz Foundation, said: “We are proud to collaborate on the ‘Emerald 100: Inspiring Muslims – Next Generation Edition’ list. This partnership embodies our shared vision of recognising and nurturing the talent, resilience, and leadership within British Muslim communities.

“Together, we seek to highlight individuals making remarkable strides across sectors such as healthcare, activism, and the arts. Trailblazers like Alia Khan, Hannan Ali, and Anwar Hussain, all from Luton, represent the very best of this new generation. Their contributions, spanning from local politics to philanthropy, inspire not only their communities but also broader British society.

“Through this collaboration, we aim to amplify these voices, foster new opportunities, and pave the way for future generations to continue their impactful work.”