By KLTV Newsdesk –
Mohammed Shakeel Faraz, from Heckmondwike, West Yorkshire has been recognised at the Palace of Westminster with the prestigious British Citizen Award (BCA) in recognition of his extraordinary endeavours.
The British Citizen Award recognises individuals that positively impact others and highlights the positive aspects of multi-cultural communities, workplaces, community groups and charities throughout the UK.
The January 2022 Presentation was originally postponed due to Government Guidelines, and Mohammed received his honour on 24th March 2022 for Services to the Community.
Additionally, he received the coveted BCA Medal of Honour.
Supporting Communities
Mohammed Shakeel Faraz, grew up in Heckmondwike seeing his family struggle financially, sharing with many of his community the struggles of growing up.
This drove Shakeel to want to change his path and push himself to become a successful entrepreneur. He knew that when success came, he would use it to help others.
Over the last five years, Shakeel has been passionate about making changes in the local community.
One of the first projects was the ‘Free Food Parcels’ which were originally self-funded. He soon realised the magnitude of the need and how this was not sustainable, so started fundraising with his team; undertaking activities, including charity car washes, BBQs and auctions. The team has to date raised almost £1 million for various projects.
The need for the food parcel delivery service was increased during the first lockdown. Shakeel felt a base was needed to create a local food bank which he opened by self-funding.
After seeing how many people were affected and in need, he also decided to run a hot meal plan every Sunday, which meant those in need came along for a hot meal but also got to share their issues and see how they could be helped.
‘Amazing People’
Shakeel was one of many Nominees up for various awards, which include Services to the Community, Arts, Education, Volunteering, and more.
Speaking about those receiving awards, Jonny McQuarrie, from BCA partner One Stop, said: “This year’s medalists have reminded us of how many amazing people are supporting our communities, especially during such a challenging time.
“At One Stop we serve many communities across the country, and we know how important voluntary work is to support those in need.
“We’re proud to be partnering with the BCA again and to play a small part in helping each medallist to be recognised. Our congratulations go to all honourees”.
The Medal presentation was hosted at the Palace of Westminster by TV presenter Tim Vincent, and attended by BCA Patron Dame Mary Perkins, Founder of Specsavers, and Baroness Caroline Cox.