The British Bangladeshi Business Awards(BBBA) are making a return for the first time since the Covid pandemic with more prizes than ever - and they are taking place in Birmingham.
After a seven-year hiatus, the fourth BBBAs ceremony will take place in Birmingham's Bingley Hall on Sunday October 25. They will be the biggest yet to recognise talent and achievements in local communities.
Entries are only open until October 1 and organisers are urging businesses from across Birmingham and the West Midlands, where there is a strong Bangladeshi community, to put forward nominations for their achievements.
Organiser Desh Foundation UK started off the biennial ceremony as the Midland Curry Awards before it expanded and became the prestigious national BBBA celebration that we see today.
Then-Prime Minister David Cameron was the guest of honour in 2015 when there were 21 categories to recognise inspiring members of anyone with roots in the Bangladeshi community in the UK.
This year will have its most categories to date of 33. Alongside the long-standing and acclaimed titles of Takeaway of the Year and Best Restauranteur, there are new additions including Family Business of the Year and titles for the top Agricultural Entrepreneur, Best Community Champion and Personality of the Year.
These reflect the changing enterprise of the Bangladeshi community, to create successful businesses beyond the curry houses they have become famous for. There will also be a special focus on Asian catering and the restaurant industry.
Mish Rahman, head of Desh Foundation UK, said:
Around 650,000 people in the UK are in the Bangladeshi community but make an important impact on British culture and the economy.
The first generation became national leaders in the UK curry industry and we are now seeing future generations continue in that field but also branch out with innovation in everything from the hospitality to technology and finance sectors.
Itβs great to bring back these awards and recognise the successes and hard work of small businesses and individuals with roots in the Bangladeshi community. Thereβs still time to enter as we want to be able to showcase the best and most inspiring work taking place.
More than 500 guests from across the country including dignitaries like the Lord Mayor of Birmingham attend the glittering awards. This yearβs awards and gala night, presented by Globe Learning Pathway, takes place at Bingley Hall in Birmingham on Sunday October 25.
Funds will be raised for Amnesty International, as the charity partner of the event.
The closing date for entries is October 1. Visit the British Bangladeshi Business Awards website at for more information and to submit an entry at: https://deshfoundation.org.uk/
