The annual list celebrates and recognises those who are shaping the Bradford community. In 2023, there was a particular focus on those who have emerged as ‘beacons of change’, championed diversity and justice and stood up for noble causes. 

Alongside his role at Leeds Trinity, Dr Bashir is a prominent figure in the city of Bradford and works to ensure there is cohesion, diversity, inclusion and integration within the community. Dr Bashir is the Founder of  Volunteering Interfaith Partnership, a local group originally set up to help the elderly and vulnerable in self-isolation amidst the Covid-19 pandemic by offering wellbeing support, friendly phone chats and food collection/delivery. It now continues its work with initiatives such as ‘Sharing Ramadan’ and delivering Christmas food hampers. 

He is the CEO of the Professional Muslims Institute, dedicated to supporting the overall achievement and advancement of professional Muslims in the UK. As part of this, he holds regular events that bring professional Muslims together to network in safe spaces and debate and discuss issues that impact community. 

The Editor of the Asian Standard, Fatima Patel, praised Dr Bashir for his work in diversity and inclusion related to the Policing degree at Leeds Trinity by organising trips to places of worship for students so they can experience and embrace a range of different cultures. His efforts to ensure children are protected in faith institutions in his previous role as a Safeguarding Consultant were also noted.  

Alongside Dr Bashir in the influential list are figures including England and Yorkshire cricketer Adil Rashid, TV and radio presenter Anita Rani, Dr Amir Khan, a prominent figure in the medical profession, and Yasmina Khan, the leader of the charity Staying Put, which works with survivors of domestic abuse and sexual violence in Bradford and the surrounding areas. 

Dr Javed Bashir said: “I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to those who supported me throughout this journey, including my colleagues for their unwavering support and encouragement which has been instrumental in helping me achieve this recognition. 

“I hope that this will inspire others to pursue their passions, put something back into their communities, and never give up on their dreams, no matter what obstacles they may face along the way. Spending your time to support a cause you are passionate about is something you will never regret. It will enrich your life, familiarise you with your community, and connect you to people and ideas that will positively impact your perspective for the rest of your life. Helping your community is an opportunity for you to grow as a person, and to better understand how you fit into the world around you.” 

Professor Mohammed Arif, Pro Vice-Chancellor - Enterprise and External Engagement at Leeds Trinity University, said: “On behalf of all at Leeds Trinity University, I offer a huge congratulations to Dr Bashir on this fantastic achievement. As his colleagues, we see the hard work and commitment he puts into contributing to his local community daily, and it is wonderful that he is being recognised externally too. His work makes a real difference to people in Bradford. He should be very proud of his invaluable endeavours.” 

For more information on Leeds Trinity University’s Policing degrees, visit the website.