Four of the Scottish Muslim Awards were presented to people or organisations from Edinburgh on Sunday, at the Glasgow Hilton. Scotland’s First Minister, John Swinney, and the former First Minister Humza Yousaf were in attendance to honour some of the incredible achievements made across several fields across Scottish society.
The Edinburgh winners were:
Amana Food won Hadhrat Khadija Kubra (RA) Business Award.
‘Amana Food Products Company, founded in Scotland in 2019, is a pioneering example of Palestinian entrepreneurship abroad. The company aims to support the Palestinian economy by purchasing directly from small farmers, ensuring fair income and sustainability.
By importing high-quality products like dates, olive oil, and thyme, Amana has introduced Palestinian goods to British markets, making them strong competitors globally.
More than a business, Amana’s strategy focuses on uplifting Palestinian families and farmers, providing access to international markets that would otherwise be unreachable. This commitment to social responsibility, combined with business success, showcases how companies can blend profit with purpose.
Amana serves as an inspiring model, demonstrating that values-driven entrepreneurship can foster sustainable development and positively impact Palestinian society, while promoting Palestinian products on the global stage.’
The Imran Sabir Bravehard Award was shared between Amjid Majeed, Imam Ibrahim Alwawi, Dr Ibrahim Khadra and Abdul Rahman & Reehan Ali (Pedal 2 Hajj).
‘Abdul Rahman and Reehan Ali showed extraordinary dedication. The two brothers embarked on an awe-inspiring journey, cycling from Edinburgh to Hajj, a gruelling 3,600-mile trek across 13 countries in just 60 days.
Their journey was not only a remarkable physical and mental challenge but also a profound act of compassion, raising over £92,000 for the people of Gaza.
Since 2015, Abdul Rahman and Reehan have been steadfast volunteers with the World Care Foundation, participating in numerous aid missions and charity challenges, including cycling from Edinburgh to Paris, completing marathons, and tackling extreme endurance events.
Their latest feat, cycling to Hajj, demonstrates their unparalleled commitment to raising awareness and funds for those in need. Their perseverance, sacrifice, and selflessness are truly inspiring and deserving of recognition.’
Amir Hussain won the Salaman al Farsi (RA) Award for Innovation
‘Amir Hussain is a distinguished academic and researcher with extensive experience in the fields of AI and robotics.
He earned his B.Eng. (Highest 1st Class Honours with Distinction) and Ph.D. degrees from the University of Strathclyde in 1992 and 1997, respectively.
Following postdoctoral and academic roles at various institutions, including the University of West of Scotland, University of Dundee, and University of Stirling, he joined Edinburgh Napier University in 2018 as a Chair Professor in the School of Computing.
Hussain is the founding Director of the Centre for AI and Robotics (CAIR) and leads the Trustworthy Data Science and Cyber Analytics Research Group.
He holds several Visiting Professorships, including at the University of Electronic Science and Technology of China and Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University.
He also serves as Turing Academic Lead for the University Network of the Alan Turing Institute and advises on AI strategy internationally, including for Kuwait’s National AI Strategy.’
Mick Napier won An-Najashi Award for Supporting Muslims
‘Mick Napier is a lifelong socialist and anti-racist activist known for his staunch opposition to Tory policies and his dedication to social justice.
Certified free of racism by two Scottish courts, Napier is a founding member of the Scottish Palestine Solidarity Campaign (SPSC), where he has been a vocal advocate for Palestinian rights.
Recently, Napier has been a prominent figure in the movement, tirelessly supporting Palestine even at great personal risk.
His activism has led to multiple arrests, but his commitment remains unwavering. Napier’s relentless efforts and courageous stance continue to make a significant impact in raising awareness and advocating for justice in Palestine.’
For more information on The Scottish Muslim Awards, please visit:
https://scottishmuslimawards.org/
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