AAA Post Event 2013

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Incremental progress of the British Asians he 13th Asian Achievers Awards ceremony was very successful in a number of ways. The venue, menu, guests and the entire programme was perhaps the best we have been able to plan in 42 years of our publishing history. We were able to honour the women of the world and focus both on their performances as well as challenges.

I sincerely thank all those involved in the celebrations.

May I take this opportunity to congratulate all the winners as well as the shortlisted candidates. I would like to thank all the nominators and offer my sincere appreciation for the largest number of nominations of outstanding achievers of various categories.

There are many more exemplary persons both young and not so young women and men in various walks of life who provide yeomen's services for the benefit of others while progressing further in their chosen fields. I hope that in the future we receive more and more nominations, reflecting the depth of our involvements in incremental number of activities.

South Asians came to Great Britain predominately in the last 50 odd years and from a very humble beginning.

Their children and grandchildren are progressing further, enabling the community to contribute more and more to our new home.

In some ways we as a community are also an inspiration for every other section of the British society. AAA are People's Awards and without any preconditions, the nominations are solicited by a panel of independent judges who perform their duties with diligence and dedication. This year the judging panel was chaired by none other than Rt Hon Lord Navnit Dholakia, Deputy Leader of the Liberal Democratic Party.

This year the theme of the awards was dedicated to women. All of us are aware of the varied role of a woman in our lives. She is a wife, sister, daughter, but above all she is a mother. Though in the West, people take pride in women's progress and equal roles, the gruesome and unfortunate experiences of some of the women here as well go unnoticed. Even in today's world, women are murdered in the name of honour, beaten up, trafficked and this year's charity Lily Foundation works very hard to provide such ill fated women a better life. In the professional world too, many of these women suffer endless obstacles, lack of exposure and equal opportunities- the 'invisible' glass ceiling we have heard about.

This year we aimed to celebrate the achievements, might and bravery of all those women who have not only dealt with the odds in their lives, but have fought for their rights and have made significant contributions, sometimes more than men in this society.

This year's charity Lily Foundation has touched the heart of our people. AAA over the years have focussed on issues of health, education, community development con-

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cerning our communities and as a country in whole. With more and more British born South Asians with added advantage of qualification, competence and confidence, our range will increase rapidly.

Some say we are yet to match the achievement and contributions of our Jewish friends. That may be true but in such a short time we have done very well, if I may say so, considering the obstacles in our path. We need not and will not be satisfied playing in the second league. More and more South Asians will qualify to play in the first league as well.

One of the salient features of AAA is to sponsor a worthwhile charitable activity. In the past we have supported Sarvam (education), Food For Life Vrindavan (slum children schools), Silver Star charity (diabetes awareness), St Luke's Hospice (elderly), Oxfam and several others. Not only were we able to bring more awareness about the contribution of such exemplary charities but over the years several millions of pounds have been generously contributed through such events. We are most grateful to the generous donors as well as voluntary works involved in such endeavours.

The Chief Guest at the 13th AAA was none other than Cherie Blair, CBE, QC. We know of her wonderful contribution to the lives of women through her Cherie Blair Foundation. She rightfully acknowledged the contribution of the Asian women, triumphing to the top in education, workforce, politics and many other fields.

We were also honoured by the presence of a galaxy of eminent personalities, MPs, Lords, Rev Jesse Jackson, the High Commissioner of India, sponsors, advertisers, supporters and our readers.

I cannot thank those who participated in the 13th AA A enough for their hard work and devotion, in particular, the ABPL team led by Liji George, Rovin George and Rupanjana Dutta.

CB Patel Publisher/Editor Asian Achievers Awards 2013 Asian Voice & Gujarat Samachar

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Pride of the Asian Community honoured at the 13th Asian Achievers Awards - the 'People's Awards' inners of the coveted Asian Achievers Awards 2013 were announced at the esteemed award ceremony on Friday 6th September amid the fitting grandeur of Grosvenor House Hotel, Park Lane, London. The awards recognise the outstanding work of individuals from across all businesses and professions, and acknowledge the Cherie Blair CBE, QC accomplishments of the finest of the UK’s Asian community. This year’s event paid particular homage to the achievements of women from Asian communities and across all spheres of professional life.

Hosted by Asian Business Publications Ltd (ABPL), publishers of respected newspapers, Asian Voice and Gujarat Samachar, Asian Achievers Awards 2013 welcomed a who’s who of high profile dignitaries, cross party politicians, celebrities and high achievers from the Asian community. Among them were Chief Guest, Cherie Blair CBE, QC; Special Guest, American civil rights leader, Rev Jesse Jackson; and Rt Hon Keith Vaz MP. This year’s panel of judges was chaired by Rt Hon, Lord Dholakia OBE DL, Deputy Leader of the Liberal Democrats.

The esteemed award ceremony, presented by Sky News presenter, Ashish Joshi, and comedian Shazia Mirza, was interspersed with Rt Hon Keith Vaz, MP a line-up of world-class entertainment, a sumptuous dinner and charity auction in aid of the Lily Foundation. The NGO works to raise funds and awareness for its anti- trafficking work which spans prevention, rescue and rehabilitation, education and livelihoods through to advocacy, campaigning and legislation, with the ultimate aim of ending the trafficking of women and children.

In his opening speech, Mr. CB Patel, Chairman, Asian Business Publications Ltd. (ABPL) said, “The theme of this year's awards is solely dedicated to women. We all are aware of the manifold roles of a woman. The most unique and the greatest being that of a mother. She is also a wife, a sister, a daughter, a friend, and every bit of her role has its unique significance in a man's life. In a way, it is a happy occasion for me but at the same time, I feel very unhappy that

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Asian Achievers Awards 2013 Asian Voice & Gujarat Samachar

women in every part of the world, including in Britain, suffer gruesome and unfortunate experiences – they are murdered in the name of honour, beaten up, trafficked and the nightmare is unbelievable.

Even in the professional world, many of the women suffer endless obstacles, the lack of exposure and equal rights- the 'invisible' glass ceiling we have CB Patel heard about.

Tonight we are celebrating the achievements, might and bravery of all those women who have not only dealt with the odds in their lives, but have fought for equal opportunities and have made significant contributions, sometimes more than men in this society.”

The Indian High Commissioner, HE Dr J. Bhagwati said: “Todays function is meant to help and support the foundation called the Lily Foundation. And I would like link that to this word 'achievement', which is often recognized as that of men. It is still a male dominated world in many ways, although different societies have evolved to different stages and levels. Even in this country, there is a disproportionate amount of a burden that women have to bare in HE Dr J Bhagwati terms of atrocities lack of recognition of their achievements. As far as I'm concerned the level of development of society is not necessarily linked to economical progress or financial income or even for education, it is more to be engaged and the status of women.”

“The Lily foundation is working with girls who have been trafficked. I think an appeal has already gone out. We support this foundation, I know personally that this foundation is doing fantastic work, not just because I know Lady Mohini Noon but also because my wife is associated with this. I know their work and what their plans for the future are.”

Rt Hon Lord Dholakia said: “It is very difficult being to be able to identify those people who we should recognize but even more difficult is involving people who so close. I have no Rt Hon Lord Dholakia

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doubt at all that we are going to see all these people having the recognition, the greatest recognition, in the near future. For them, I say never give up. Secondly, we are today in support of the Charity. I congratulate Lady Noon for identifying the girl and rescuing her from the tragedy she was in. We can now believe in our culture.

Finally, there is a tremendous amount of trouble in the world. Millions of refugees are now in Syria. I don't intend to make a political point. What I intend to say is let us not forget there is a child hungry, there is another with no facility in terms of bringing up a family. Let us not talk and deprive contribution of society.”

The main sponsor for the event, Col Pickles Sodhi, Managing Director, Alpha G Corp said, “At the outset, on behalf of our company, Col Pickles Sodhi I would like to offer my congratulations to all nominees tonight. I would like to thank Mr CB Patel for giving us the opportunity to recognize and acknowledge excellence. From Alpha G Corp, always expect the finest.”

Milind Kangle, CEO of Lyca Mobile, also one of the sponsors for the evening, said: “Lyca mobile is a delighted and proud sponsor this evening. It is our 4th year in a row that we are running it with CB Patel. Please give a huge round of applause to CB Patel and his team for giving us a fantastic evening. It is their 13th year in a row where Milind Kangle they bring in the Asian community to recognise and celebrate their contributions to the british culture and indeed to the British economy” “On behalf of our leader and Lyca mobile family. I would like to congratulate all of the nominees tonight and wish all of you a wonderful evening.”

The Chairman of DVK group Ltd, Mr Deepak Kuntawala praised women and their achievements and said: “In certain countries, the male force is considered to be the leader but things are changing for example the CEO of Pepsi is a woman, Margaret thatcher, Indira Gandhi, Mother Teresa. I am really thankful to George for picking this topic.

I'd also like to thank Asian Voice CB Patel, George and his whole organisation for allowing us to support this event.”

Speaking on behalf of her Deepak Kuntawala charity, the Lily Foundation, Lady Mohini Noon said: “There is a fierce urgency for us to do something about it today. Let us not tranquillise ourselves with indifference, for this is an act of God and we will be judged by how we correct this injustice.

No community, no religion is safe, hindu, muslim, middle-class girls and boys are tricked, and kidnapped and sold.”

“Now is the time to throw a lifeline to them and give them the riches of freedom and security of justice. Almost every minute of the day, a girl or woman are being trafficked in india. These girls are being let down by the very adults who should have protected them.

92% are forced into prostitution, 40% are under 18, 12% are sold by their own fathers and mothLady Mohini Noon ers. 90% are not educated. Lily foundation supports grass root NGOs who work to prevent trafficking from happening.

Im asking you to give just a little bit of your surplus. The girls are waiting patiently for us to help them.”

The Asian Achievers Awards was also honoured with the attendance of a special guest Rev Jesse Jackson, who was introduced to the audience by Rt Hon Keith Vaz. Rev Jesse said: “I am delighted to be here to celebrate the 13th AAA. You should all give yourselves a big round of applause. In this past week, we celebrated Martin Luther King in Washington and everything he did in 1963. He never gave up. I thank you for the joy, the hope and let’s keep fighting together. There is too much hate in the world, too much violence, too much war. We, as civilised people, must go another way. War is attractive, but peace has more benefit. We've tried war, it does not work. Instead, let's give hope a chance, and keep hope alive. Give peace a chance, give peace a chance.”

The Chief Guest of the evening, Cherie Blair, CBE, QC said, “Part of the reason for us being here tonight is to celebrate the British Asian community, and I consider myself very much an honorary member of that, not least because it gives me the great opportunity to wear the fantastic Indian dress.

We're also of course celebrating Asian women here tonight and guys if you had to get Rev Jesse Jackson dressed in this every day, you would realise that their achievements are even more extraordinary.

We've seen women triumphing to the top in education, the workforce and politics. I was privileged to see that on my table was a woman officer in the RAF. That would have been impossible 30 or 40 years ago.

That is something that we need to celebrate. We will see this from many of the people we'll hear about tonight, from business, finance to my own field, the law... Women are making huge contributions in our country and in the world and tonight we're celebrating that particular mark that Asian women have made. So let’s now look forward to hearing about incredible stories of achievement and thank the event organisers for once again putting on an incredible evening.”

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13th Asian Achievers Awards WINNERS 2013

Gold Award For Achievement In Media, Arts And Culture Seeta Indrani

Seeta began her career in the original cast of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s international hit, Cats, going on to work with companies as esteemed as The Royal Shakespeare Company, The Royal National Theatre and, Rambert dance Company. A familiar face on our tv screens, Seeta is best known for her nine year stint as WPC Datta in The Bill, Lily Hassan in Doctors and more recently, The Cafe and Eastenders.

Seeta founded MashMosh Films in 2006 with Chris Bishop. Seeta is also the Festival Director of The Clare Valley Film Festival.

“It's always very gratifying to be recognised for what one is struggling to achieve, especially in a business as precarious as the entertainment industry! So a huge thank you to CB Patel for organising this wonderful event and to the judges for the award. I know I've been very fortunate and could never have done it without a lot of support - Chris, Marcella, Jim, Karen, Leela, Marilyn et al. Lastly a heads up for your autumn viewing, guest roles in Casualty, Wizards Vs Aliens and US series Covert Affairs.

All updates are available on seetaindrani.com.”

Gold Award For Achievement In Community Service

Professor Naina Patel OBE

Professor Naina Patel OBE founded PRIAE Policy Research Institute on Ageing and Ethnicity in 1998; and thereby pioneered a new policy area. She raised the funding for PRIAE to embark on programmes in health, social care, pensions, housing, employment and citizenship. This included the largest European research on Minority Elderly Care, a first such award by the EU. Jon Snow (Channel 4) remarked that ‘PRIAE is more than a think tank, it makes things happen’. Formerly UK Representative to the European Monitoring Centre on Racism in Vienna, Naina is a prolific writer and international speaker, advisor and often appearing in the media in support of Asian and minority elderly issues.

“To win the AAA award is special. Inspired by my late parents, with support from my husband, family and trustees, my work at PRIAE Policy Research Institute in Ageing and Ethnicity concerned all minority elderly across UK-Europe – a diversity reflected in the ABPL audience at Grosvenor House.

The recognition, respect, ‘congratulations’ and enthusiasm on the day - particularly the young cheered on by Kajal Shah, London Communications - was a heartening reminder that hope endures, despite current adversity. Asian/minority elders are resourceful, as are all who work in elder care, but they need community, policymakers’ and funders' support to achieve a decent quality of life in the 21st century. The Award underscores PRIAE’s major achievements and resources (see www.priae.org) and the institute's pivotal role towards that better future.”

Gold Award For Sports Personality Of The Year Ruqsana Begum

Ruqsana Begum is an English kickboxer who is currently British female Atomweight (48–50 kg) Muay Thai boxing Champion and captain of the British Muay Thai Team. She is also coach at “Fight for Peace,” a charity which uses boxing as a prevention and rehabilitation model to confront the problem of child and youth participation in crime. After being selected to be an Olympic torchbearer in recognition of her sporting achievements and community work, helping young people to engage in sports and giving them a focus in life in the East London community, on 21 July 2012, she carried the Olympic Torch in Greenwich, London.

“Winning the sports personality was beyond my expectation. I was delighted to even get short listed.

It's such a great honour to be the sports personality of the year 2013. The Asian Achievers Award recognises the hard work, dedication and sacrifices that individuals within the community put in, to make significant difference within the society. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all my well wishers and my coach for believing in me and taking me on this journey. I would also like to thank my sponsor DCD Property, as I was able to compete at the world championship with their support, where I represented Team GB and won a bronze medal. I look forward to fight for the world title next year. I have realised that success comes with sacrifice quite early in my sporting career but that's what makes one successful. I hope my journey can inspire others to follow their passion as I have done.”

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13th Asian Achievers Awards WINNERS 2013

Gold Award For Uniformed And Civil Services Surjeet Manku, Chief Superintendent

Surjeet is the highest ranking Asian officer in West Midlands Police and has dedicated 29 years serving in uniform and CID roles. He has commanded one of the most challenging areas in Birmingham and led the force on preventing extremism - working with the West Midlands Counter Terrorism Unit to help stop terrorism. Surjeet revolutionised the way the force develops policies and plans operations to ensure the policing style is sensitive to the impact on communities.

“It was a real privilege that I have been able to serve the communities of the West Midlands for so long and I was flattered to have been nominated for this award. Then I heard my name being read out as the recipient, against a really strong shortlist, I was surprised and absolutely thrilled. hope the award will inspire others to be ambitious in serving and protecting their own communities. It was a fantastic evening and a real honour to be able to share in the celebration of the very best of Britain’s diverse Asian community.”

Gold Award For Professional Of The Year Nandita Parshad

Nandita Parshad is the Director of the Power & Energy Utilities Team at the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) where she heads a team of 40 professionals covering 33 countries with a portfolio of over EUR 5 billion, doing an annual business of over EUR 1 billion. Nandita has over 25 years’ experience in financing and investing in the power sector in diverse emerging economies such as India, Eastern Europe, former Soviet Union, Mongolia, Turkey, Middle East and North Africa. Since joining EBRD in 1992, Nandita has led several complex power project financings involving debt, equity, syndications and intensive policy dialogue at the highest level in Governments and with reputable domestic and international strategic investors.

“I really enjoyed the multicultural entertainment at the evening from the wonderful performances by Akademi to the heartwarming speech by one of my heroes – Reverend Jesse Jackson.

To hear the Reverend speak really took me back to my student days in the US and his leadership in the anti-aparetheid movement. So really an evening that bridged so many parts of my life; my Asian roots, my US education and my professional life based in the UK.”

Gold Award For Young Entrepreneur Of The Year Rajeeb Dey

Rajeeb Dey (27) is the founder & CEO of Enternships - a platform for students and graduates to find internships and jobs in over 5000 startups and SMEs for which he was awarded the O2 X Young Entrepreneur of the Year accolade and named the world’s youngest Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum in 2012. Rajeeb is also a co-founder of Start Up Britain; the national campaign to inspire, celebrate and accelerate entrepreneurship in Britain, launched by the Prime Minister in 2011.

He was recognised by The Evening Standard as one of the “1000 Most Influential People in London” and earlier this year honoured with the Queen’s Award for Enterprise Promotion in recognition of his work in the entrepreneurship sector for over ten years.

“It's a great honour to receive the Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award. At a time of record levels of youth unemployment we're passionate about doing everything we can to create new internships and job opportunities through Enternships.com and to be recognised with an Asian Achievers Award is a real boost for both myself and the company. I'd like to thank ABPL for organising such a fantastic event and for providing a platform to showcase young entrepreneurs and hope that we can inspire many other young people to pursue their entrepreneurial ambitions.”

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13th Asian Achievers Awards WINNERS 2013

Platinum Award For Business Person Of The Year Firoz Tejani

Firoz Tejani is Chief Executive of the Lenlyn Group and one of the founding family shareholders who established the business in 1973. Originally the business was dedicated to the operation of foreign exchange concessions on London’s main high streets and railway stations. It is now one of the largest retail currency exchange operators in the world and also offers a comprehensive range of financial services following the acquisition of Raphaels Bank, a private bank founded in 1787 and regulated by the PRA and FCA. He is an active member of his local Lions Club and has over many years sponsored a number of charities both in the UK and overseas.

“This is an incredible honour for me, especially considering the number of highly influential and wellrespected individuals working in Britain’s Asian community today. We’re stronger than ever and continue to play a key role in the UK economy. I am extremely proud of what we have already achieved at Lenlyn Group and the worldwide success of Raphaels Bank and ICE, delivering innovation in retail foreign exchange, prepaid cards, ATMs and consumer finance. This award recognizes the hard work and commitment of all my colleagues at Lenlyn as well as the continued support of my fellow shareholders, family and especially my wife, who have shared in my vision of creating an innovative provider of worldwide niche banking and currency services.”

Platinum Award For Woman Of The Year

Farida Gibbs

Farida Gibbs is the CEO of GibbsS3, a globally certified woman-owned business enterprise. Gibbs S3 has become an international provider of IT Staffing, Business Change and Project Solutions with operations in the US and Europe. Farida began her career more than 15 years ago and has extensive experience in the Banking, Telecommunications, Energy and Retail industries.

Her inspiring career and rise to the top has led her to direct the UK's efforts and become one of the fastest growing staffing providers posting sales revenues of $30,000,000 in the UK after 3 years of trading. Farida has been asked to support the Women of the Future Ambassadors Programme, which mentors the next generation of female talent.

“I am thrilled to have won “Woman of the Year” at the 13th Annual Asian Achievers Awards 2013. To have been amongst some of the most admired Asian Women in this category was enough for me, but to actually win it was something else. I am incredibly honoured that the judges felt I was a worthy winner and cannot thank them, the organisers and the people who worked so hard to make the evening inspiring and sparkling! Well done on another fantastic Asian Achievers Awards and here is to 2014.”

Platinum Award For Lifetime Achievement Award

Hinduja Brothers, Industrialists & Philanthropists

Srichand & Gopichand Hinduja are UK-based billionaire brothers who have a net worth of $8.3 billion. Often refereed to as the Hinduja brothers, they run the global conglomerate The Hinduja Group, which is currently headquartered in London, United Kingdom.

Founded back in 1914, the company was initially operating in Mumbai, India, and then set up its first international operation in Iran in 1919. Sixty years later, the brothers moved to London to develop their father's export business. Their group incorporates manifold companies with operations in automotive, financial services, ITES, oil and gas, media and telecom among others. Overall, it employes more than 4000 people.

“My brother SP joins me in writing to thank you for inviting us to the 13th Asian Achievers Award last week. As in previous years it proved to be a wonderful evening and resounding success. This year we were both surprised and overwhelmed to receive the Lifetime Achievement Award. This was certainly unexpected and has now given us an even greater responsibility on our shoulders as members of the Asian community. We have never been a family seeking the limelight – but in everything we do, we always try to strengthen ties between our mother and host countries. My wife Sunita and niece Shanu also join me to congratulate you for organising an excellent and memorable evening.” Gopichand P. Hinduja

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13th Asian Achievers Awards WINNERS 2013

Editor's Award Lawyer of the year itesh Patel, is one of the best known Asian solicitors in the UK. He is the face of Asian community through the 18 partner multi million pound law firm Levenes, which has offices in London and Birmingham.

His firm provides legal advice and assistance in areas of law including Employment, Crime, Education, Disability, Immigration, Medical negligence and Personal Injury.

Seen by his peers as a British Indian at the forefront of his profession as a lawyer, Mitesh is actively champions the cause of the Asian and wider communities. Under his ambition his firm now provides legal services to the Bengali, Gujarati, Cantonese, Urdu and Punjabi communities, recognising that people from all backgrounds continue to thrive and evolve allowing us to put the Great into Great Britain.

Mitesh’s hard work in the Asian community has seen him become a household name, a regular face on Asian TV. This has seen his rise up through the ranks at Levenes to become one of the firms youngest ever partners in 2011.

Mitesh is all too aware that the members of the Indian community do not have the same access to justice as others on account of language barriers and he has therefore forged a strong presence in the legal field to facilitate access to those who need it the most. He

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frequently holds free legal advice clinics and has written numerous legal articles in many publications/newspapers.

A member of the Association of Personal Injury Lawyers (APIL), Mitesh’s present case work encompasses a wide variety of work which has seen him attend hearings in the High Court, Coroner’s Court for Inquest hearings, and Mediation for numerous high value cases.

In 2013, Mitesh was awarded the Best in Legal Services award at the British Indian Awards.

A rising star with no limits Mitesh’s sole motivation is to ensure everyone has access to representation no matter who they are or what language they speak.

He believes that everyone has a right to a lawyer and Mitesh is a renowned lawyer who speaks your language.

The 14th Asian Achievers Awards will be taking place on September 2014 For more information on nominations, table booking and other updates

Follow us on

Or visit our website www.asianachieversawards.com

Editor/Publisher: CB Patel Managing Editor: Kokila Patel Associate Editor: Rupanjana Dutta Consulting Editor: Jyotsna Shah News Editor: Kamal Rao Editorial Executive: Tanveer Mann Chief Operating Officer: L George Chief Financial Officer: Surendra Patel Accounts Executive: Akshay Desai Business Manager: Alka Shah Advertising Manager: Kishor Parmar Business Development Managers: Rovin George, Nihir Shah, & Urja Patel Graphic Designers: Harish Dahya & Ajay Kumar Customer Service: Ragini Nayak Asian Business Publications Ltd Karma Yoga Houes, 12 Hoxton Market, London N1 6HW Tel: 020 7749 4085 Fax: 020 7749 4081 www.abplgroup.com ©Asian Business Publications Ltd

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WINNERS of the 13th Asian Achievers Awards

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Seeta Indrani, Actress and Performer, receiving the Award for Achievement in Media, Arts and Culture from Dr Merul Patel, Director, ABPL Group, and Seema Malhotra MP

Professor Naina Patel, OBE, Founder, Policy Research Institute on Ageing & Ethnicity (PRIAE) in the UK receiving the Achievement in the Community Award from Lord Raj Loomba and Nina Amin MBE, Partner and Head of Asian Markets, KPMG

Ruqsana Begum, Kickboxer, British Champion, European Gold Medalist, World Bronze Medalist, receiving the Sports Personality of the Year Award from Lord Prof Kamlesh Patel and Rajesh Agrawal, Founder Chairman & CEO, Rational FX

Winner of the Uniformed and Civil Service category, Chief Supt Surjeet Manku receiving his award from Commodore David Stubbs of Royal Air Force

Nandita Parshad, Director, Power & Enegy Utilities Team at the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) receiving the Professional of the Year Award from Lod Gulam Noon and Mr Mrutyunjay Mahapatra, Regional Head in UK of State Bank of India

Rajeeb Dey, Founder and CEO, Enternships, receiving the Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award from Simrin Choudrie, Creative Director of Bach Interiors Ltd and Paula Chattaraj, Air India, (on behalf of Mr Kailesh Singh, Regional Manager in UK of Air India)

Firoz Tejani, Chief Executive of the Lenlyn Group, receiving the Business Person of the Year award from Deepak Kuntawala, Founder, DVK and Nina Amin MBE, Partner and Head of Asian Markets, KPMG

Farida Gubbs, CEO of GibbsS3, receiving the Woman of the Year Award with her daughter from Chief Guest, Cherie Blair, CBE, QC and Sudhir Choudrie, entrepreneur, philanthropist & Executive Director of Alpha G. Corp

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WINNERS of the 13th Asian Achievers Awards

Srichand Hinduja and Gopichand Hinduja, industrialists and philanthropists receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award from Chief Guest Cherie Blair, QC and CB Patel, Publisher/Editor, ABPL Group and Chairman, AAA.

Anita Choudhrie, Founder of Path to Success charity, recipient of Editor's Award for Philanthropist of the Year award with Rev Jesse Jackson

Mitesh Patel, Partner, Levenes Solicitors, recipient of Editor's Award for Lawyer of the Year award with Rev Jesse Jackson

Testimonials This is to thank you and the entire team of yours who helped us in participating with no whatsoever problem.

We take this opportunity to wish you and your entire team the very best.

Please do convey my warmest greetings to Mr. C.B. Patel.

Yours sincerely, Dr Prodipta Sen Executive Director Marketing, Corporate Affairs & Retail Alpha G:Corp Development Private Limited --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Just wanted to say a big thank you to both you and your team for a wonderful evening on Friday, (6th September) both Tina and myself really enjoyed the evening.

We thought the whole event was well organised and very professional.

Once again a big Thank you and please pass on my thanks.

Kind regards Aires Fernandes Printech (Solutions) LLP Chase House, 70 Upper Chase, Chelmsford, CM2 0BN --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Just wanted to say thanks for a really good evening on Friday; met some useful contacts and more to the point it was good to see so much success within our community.

I would like to congratulate you for hosting such an outstanding event, on the 6th of September 2013, at Grosvenor House, London. The Asian Achievers Award ceremony was a grand success, thanks to your excellent planning with attention to detail, and equally wellexecuted by your team.

My colleagues and I applaud your effort in making the event a memorable one, which I have no doubt will be remembered for a long time, by all who were present.

The gracious presence of distinguished guests and excellent speakers, made it an enriching experience.

As a sponsor of the event, we are proud to have been associated with the ABPL Group. I am positive that the ABPL will continue to acknowledge the excellent Asians from all walks of life, in the years ahead, and continue to support the charities that do yeoman service to the needy, especially women.

Once again, felicitations to you and your team for staging an outstanding event.

Best wishes and warm regards, Col. R.S (Pickles) Sodhi Managing Director Alpha G:Corp Development Private Limited ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Your Asian Achievers Awards function was a complete success. There were meaningful speeches by every speaker. It was well organised and really great quality guests were present. I congratulate you and your team for this wonderful enjoyable function. Wishing you very best wishes and kind regards.

Yours Sincerely

Samir Mody Associate Director - Property and Asset Management Jones Lang LaSalle

The Lord Noon KT, MBE

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13 Anita Choudhrie_A4 Temp 26/09/2013 17:40 Page 13

Paving the Path to Success nita Choudhrie, winner of the Editor's Award for Woman Philanthropist of the Year is the founder of the charity Path to Success. Anita has always been very passionate about charity work, even as a student in India, where she supported many local campaigns.

Path to Success is a London based Registered Charity that adopts campaigns on yearly basis as an umbrella body providing funding and grants to other charities. It supports individuals to overcome their difficulties by funding projects which have an immediate and demonstrable positive impact upon education, disabilities and mental health.

As a university student at Delhi University in New Delhi, India, Mrs Choudhrie experienced social work as part of the course, which brought an enormous awareness and knowledge about the many hardships that people, those who are outside most of our visions and environment, face. As a duty to herself and others she has for many years been involved with needy groups and since 2005she “Path to Success” in the UK. Anita strongly believes in “helping those keen to make a Success of their Inability into Ability”. She has been part of many successful campaigns both in India and the UK:

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l Patron and advocate of Amar Jyoti Charitable Trust and a pioneer Patron and advocate of the Trust of ‘Learning Matters India’ a non-profit organization which provides diagnostic treatment, assessment and therapy to school going children who have learning inadequacy. l Patron for Age Care which started in backward area in New Delhi approximately 20 years ago. Age Care is a day clinic for the elderly, destitute and widows. l Patron of Dhuk Bhanjani Trust, a charity friends for a Government Hospital in New Delhi and have been established in New Delhi for the past 15 years. Mrs Choudhrie has helped in providing food and medical aid to those medically terminated ill and poor. l On the Board of Trustees for The Shanti Memorial Society in New Delhi. l In June 2010 Mrs Choudhrie was invited by Lady Elizabeth Vallance, Chair of Trustees of “I CAN” to join “I CAN” as Chairman of the Appeal Board. l “60 for 60” Wheelchair Appeal in 2012 was initiated for Her Majesty The Queen’s Jubilee Celebration. Path to Success contributed in the lead up to this momentous year by running a campaign in The Queen’s honour. The flagship campaign “60 for 60” Wheelchair

Mrs Anita Choudhrie

Appeal was to provide 60 wheelchairs for 60 NHS hospitals in England. This successful campaign ended by donation of 83 wheelchairs to 60 NHS Hospital. l In July 2010 Mrs Choudhrie was awarded the Globe Award in recognition of her outstanding charitable work. The Award was presented by the Rt. Hon. John Bercow, MP, Speaker of the House of Commons during the Award Ceremony in the House of Commons itself. l Mrs Choudhrie was awarded The Global Champion Award 2012 for her charitable work by Silver Star. l In 2013, Anita adopted St Wilfrid’s Centre in Sheffield. A new Residential Home where the homeless, vulnerable and socially excluded are welcomed all year around. l Path to Success extends its philanthropy to challenged, but very brave children of this very successfully run school, Amar Jyoti, in India. By adopting their basketball team. Providing the players with specialised wheelchairs and coaching to enable them to play inter schools and intercity matches.

Anita strongly aims to inspire and encourage people to take responsibility in helping others and teaching those in need to help themselves, whilst embracing multicultural values and traditions.

Asian Achievers Awards 2013 Asian Voice & Gujarat Samachar

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The 13th AAA Celebration

The comperes: Ashish Joshi and Shazia Mirza

Chief Guest Cherie Blair QC,CBE garlanded by Miss Dhara Parmar

Rita Bhagwati, Lady Mohini Noon, HE Dr Jaimini Bhagwati

Subaskaran & Prema Allirajah with Lyca Group

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Asian Achievers Awards 2013 Asian Voice & Gujarat Samachar

Welcome Speech by L George, COO (ABPL Group)

CB Patel, Cherie Blair, Merul Patel & Rupanjana Dutta (ABPL Group)

David Daud, Mohan Bharj, Krina Parmar, Sarabjit Singh Gupta, C B Patel, Nimrat Gupta, Shany Gupta (Duncan Lewis Solicitors)

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The 13th AAA Celebrations

Bhanu Choudhrie, Ishan Saksena, Sandeep Gill and Dhruv Choudhrie (Alpha G Corp) 

Mr & Mrs Gopi Hinduja, Cherie Blair, Lord Gulam Noon, SP Hinduja, Lady mohini Noon, Lord Kamlesh Patel

Raj Gautam, Suresh Vagjiani and Eana Vagjiani (Sow & Reap)

Joseph De Silva (GSF Euro Car Parts), Sulochana Davdra, Kishor Davdra and Paresh Davdra (Rational FX)

Ranjit Singh Baxi, (World Punjabi Org), Dr Neha Gupta (St Georges NHS Trust) Dr Ajay Gupta (UKIHCC)

Mathew Philip(Silk Route Legal), Rovin George (ABPL), and Vivekanand Jaganathan, (Silk Route Legal)

Ash Bathia (Major Lloyds Syndicate) Vandana Gohil, Rachel Gilliam, Kishore Gohil (Lockton Companies LLP)

Sayrha Elahi, Reena Popat, (Darlingtons Solicitor), Vishal Patel and Jesal Patel (Prideview Group)

Lord and Lady Loomba (Loomba Foundation)

Nita Vaja and Ashwin Galoria (Dignity Funeral Group) Asian Achievers Awards 2013 Asian Voice & Gujarat Samachar

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14-18 Celebration Photo_A4 Temp 27/09/2013 14:14 Page 16

The 13th AAA Celebrations

Gaurang Velani, Usha Velani, Samji Patel (Jaysam Contractors Ltd) and Vijya Patel

Ian Clifford (Indigo FX), Aman Sood (Smith Williamson), Nailesh Teraiya (Indigo FX)

Lady Ann Dholakia, Mrutyunjay Mahapatra and Anil Arora (State Bank of India)

CB Patel with the Bristol Laboratories team

Harish Dass , Aman Sood, Sumaer Amar (Smith Williamson)

Mukul Kumar, Colonel R. S. Sodhi, Air Commodore David Stubbs & Gp Capt Catherine Coton with the Royal Air Force team and Dr. Prodipta Sen (Alpha G Corp)

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Asian Achievers Awards 2013 Asian Voice & Gujarat Samachar

PS Kang and Krishan Kapur (Moresand Group)

Kunverji Patel & Vijay Parikh

Pratibha Dewan and Paresh Raja - Market Financial Solutions

Mihir Bose and Caroline Cecil

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The 13th AAA Celebrations

Shaun Chadha (S & J Investments and Construction), Harlaksh Singh, Bhupinder Singh (Punjab National Bank), Seema Malhotra MP, Vivek Chadha

Joshna Patel, Mitesh Patel, Asif Mangera (Levenes Solicitors)

Ram Nangla (Brightsun Travel)

Simrin Choudhrie, Aman Gill, Gayatri Juneja and Sana Mehta

Jayesh Patel, Sonu Patel, Bhavini Kalaria, CB Patel, Aneela Rose, Devendra Rampersaud

Bharat Shah, (Sigma Pharmaceuticals Plc) Jyoti B Shah, Harshad Kothari (SAS Consultancy), Firoza Kassam and Firoz Kassam (Firoka Group Chief Executive)

Rakesh Gupta(Hinduja Group), Amit Tulsian (KPMG), Paula Chattaraj (Air India), Asif Iqbal (Hinduja Group)

Nisha Kundra, Tia Jounija, Kundra, Minesh Patel, Navin Kundra, Kundra, Jatin Grover

Renu Ranger, Ruksana Ali, Tahir Ali and Dr Rami Ranger MBE Asian Achievers Awards 2013 Asian Voice & Gujarat Samachar

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The 13th AAA Celebrations

Sirish Amin and Sheena Amin

Manoj Ladwa of MLS Chase along with wife Dina Ladwa

Mohammed Hassan, Bhama Pudaruth, Delicia Cardoso, Marzena Haberka, Bishu Bajracharya and Vijay Choudhry

Shailesh Vara MP with Kishore Parmar (ABPL group)

Quick Change Act by Keelan & Charlotte

Opening act for the evening by AKADEMI

Sirish Kumar and team entertaining the guests with Indian classical music at the champagne reception

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Asian Achievers Awards 2013 Asian Voice & Gujarat Samachar

Aerial Act by Suspension of Disbelief

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