DR MAHABOOB BASHA, from Sketty, Swansea, was among 26 exceptional individuals honoured with the esteemed British Citizen Award (BCA) at the Palace of Westminster in recognition of his outstanding contribution to society.
The Medal Presentation, held on Thursday 23 January, saw Dr Basha receive the coveted BCA Medal of Honour for Service to Community (BCAc). Recipients are entitled to use the post-nominals to commemorate their achievements.
Dr Mahaboob Basha has been a driving force in improving the lives of BAME families and fostering community cohesion in Swansea for over a decade. As a Trustee of the Welsh Islamic Cultural Association and Age Cymru-West Glamorgan, he has been at the forefront of initiatives supporting the young and the elderly.
Dr Basha is the founder of Sketty Youth Club and Sketty Tea Lounge, two vital community initiatives. Through his leadership, he has secured over £102,000 in funding, ensuring vulnerable children receive hot meals during term time and school holidays, providing over 22,000 meals in the past 22 months.
One of his significant achievements is the development of Muslim Funeral Guidelines, currently under review by the Welsh Government for potential implementation across 22 councils in Wales. This initiative ensures the religious customs of the Muslim community are respected during times of bereavement.
In addition to his full-time role at Swansea University, Dr Basha dedicates countless hours each week to community service. Local authorities, the education department, police, and other external agencies frequently consult him for policy development and community engagement. His ability to bridge gaps between institutions and community highlights his vital and influential role in Swansea and wider South Wales.
Dr Basha was presented with the BCA Medal of Honour by Jack Taylor BCAs, Community and Partnerships Manager from BCA Partners One Stop, who said: “Many congratulations to Dr Mahaboob Basha on receiving a very well-deserved Medal of Honour.
“It’s been fantastic to learn of not only all the great work he has done for so many vulnerable children, but his dedication to the rest of his community as well. Congratulations once again!”
The presentation was hosted by TV presenter Matt Allwright, and attended by BCA Patrons Dame Mary Perkins, Founder of Specsavers, supporters from Sponsors One Stop, Specsavers, Places for People, Wates and Novus Solutions as well as Peer Host The Rt Hon Lord Dholakia. Following the ceremony, medallists enjoyed an Open Top Lap of Honour tour provided by Big Bus London.
