A city pioneer

NAVEEDA Ikram’s rise to prominence in Bradford, where she will become the first female Muslim to become Lord Mayor of the great city, is far more than a personal success story. Her election to this prestigious civic role shows that each individual has the power, regardless of their faith or background, to make a difference.

This is particularly pertinent in Bradford, and the surrounding area, where there has been a distinct lack of role models to inspire Muslim women.

As Coun Ikram demonstrated with her eloquent remarks before she wears the Mayoral robes for the first time next week, she could prove just such a role model, and through setting an example, further encourage community cohesion.

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Also central to this remarkable councillor’s vision is a desire to foster a new spirit of “active citizenship” as she looks to bring Bradford’s ethnic communities closer together.

Ten years on from race riots that so scarred Bradford, it is particularly symbolic that this important city can elect a social pioneer, like Naveeda Ikram, as its first citizen. We wish her well with her efforts to lead by example.

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