By: SwatiRana
A BRITISH of Pakistani heritage Javed Khan and Rimla Akhtar are among prominent British Asians named in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List unveiled on Friday (11).
Khan, the chief executive officer of children’s charity Barnardo’s, becomes an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE). He was recognised for his services to young people and education.
In an interview with Eastern Eye on Friday, Khan said he felt “delighted and incredibly humbled” to receive the recognition.
Reflecting on his years growing up in Birmingham with Kashmiri immigrant parents who could not read or write, he said, “I never dreamt this would be possible for someone like me.”
“At Barnardo’s we passionately believe that incredible things can happen when you believe in children, whatever their background.”
Khan, who has led the charity since 2014, added, “My family didn’t have much when I was growing up, but they gave me the love, care and hope that set me on the path to where I am today.”
He added: “This honour is a testament to the work of this incredible charity, and to every colleague, volunteer and supporter who goes above and beyond, every single day to make sure children and families can achieve the positive future they deserve.”
Sports administrator Rimla Akhtar has also been recognised with an OBE. She is the founder of social business RimJhim Consulting and is recognised for services to equality and diversity in sport.
Akhtar is known for promoting inclusivity in sport and was the first person who publicly identified themselves as an Asian, Muslim woman on the Football Association Council.
Describing the OBE as a “pleasant surprise”, Akhtar thanked her mother and brothers for “helping her on her journey”.
Akhtar has also been recognised with an OBE.
“It has been so difficult for so many of us across the world this past year in particular, as inequalities and injustices were exacerbated by the pandemic and divisions grew,” she told Eastern Eye. “But I am also hopeful due to some of the positive changes we have seen, and I aim to continue to contribute by looking in the mirror and first making the changes within me.”
A total of 1,129 names appear on the honours list, 15 per cent of whom are from a BAME (black, Asian and minority ethnic) background. It is the most ethnically diverse list to date.
