Birmingham proudly celebrated Professor Hanifa Shah, Pro Vice-Chancellor of Birmingham City University (BCU), as she was honoured with the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award 2024 for her remarkable contributions to higher education, innovation, and inclusion.
The award was presented at the highly anticipated Chutney & Chat event, co-founded by Safaraz Ali and Abid Khan. Held at Birmingham’s newly established Quiade-e-Azam Banqueting Hall, the event brought together over 450 attendees from across the Midlands, including educators, business leaders, and community influencers, making it one of the region’s most significant networking and leadership celebrations of the year.
Professor Shah was recognised for her visionary leadership, which has transformed Birmingham City University into a beacon of academic excellence and a model for global institutions. Her pioneering work in fast-evolving fields such as technology, engineering, and the built environment has strengthened the vital connection between academia and industry. Through her leadership, BCU has ensured its graduates are equipped with the skills and confidence to thrive in a rapidly changing global economy.
Under Professor Shah’s guidance, BCU has become a leader in fostering innovation, inclusivity, and employability. Her initiatives in work-based learning and digital transformation have created a dynamic environment that empowers both students and staff, furthering the university’s reputation as a cornerstone of Birmingham’s education landscape.
Celebrating Leadership and Collaboration
Speaking at the event, Safaraz Ali, Pathway Group CEO, Co-founder of Chutney & Chat, and a proud BCU alumnus, said: “Professor Hanifa Shah’s contributions have shaped not only the future of BCU but also the wider Birmingham and Midlands community. Her visionary leadership and commitment to diversity, inclusion, and innovation make her a true role model. As a BCU alumnus, I am immensely proud to see leaders like Professor Shah driving meaningful change in education and society. This recognition is richly deserved.”
Professor Shah, in her acceptance speech, reflected on the collective nature of her achievements: “This honour reflects the incredible work of colleagues, mentors, and students who have shared in this journey. Together, we have shaped a shared vision of progress, collaboration, and excellence. It is a privilege to receive this recognition and to continue advancing education and innovation, particularly here in Birmingham, a city of immense opportunity.”
A Partnership Built on Shared Values
The event also highlighted the shared mission of Pathway Group and BCU in promoting social mobility, diversity, and inclusion. Professor Shah praised Pathway Group for its impactful work in fostering equity and creating opportunities in education and the workplace, further aligning with BCU’s goals of empowering individuals and communities across Birmingham and beyond.
Abid Khan, Chair of the IoD British Asian Business Special Interest Group, commented on Professor Shah’s legacy:
“Professor Shah exemplifies the very best of leadership, blending academia and industry to create pathways for success and progress. Her work inspires us all to think bigger and work collaboratively to drive societal change.”
The Role of Events Like Chutney & Chat
The Chutney & Chat event, now in its 9th year, continues to be a powerful platform for bringing together leaders from education, business, and the community. Organised by Pathway Group, the event highlighted the importance of fostering networks that inspire growth and innovation, while showcasing Birmingham’s role as a hub of collaboration and opportunity.
As the evening concluded, Professor Hanifa Shah’s Lifetime Achievement Award served as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved through visionary leadership and collaboration. With the support of initiatives like the events and programmes run by Pathway 2Grow a brand of Pathway Group, such networks continue to shape a brighter future for education, business, and society across Birmingham and beyond.
