BCU’s Pro Vice-Chancellor Honoured with Lifetime Achievement Award at Pathway Group’s Celebrated Event
Pathway Group is proud to share that Birmingham City University’s (BCU) Pro Vice-Chancellor, Professor Hanifa Shah, has been honoured with the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award 2024 for her outstanding 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 the newly established Quiade-e-Azam Banqueting Hall in Birmingham, the event welcomed over 450 attendees from across the Midlands, 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 BCU into a global benchmark of excellence in teaching, research, and industry engagement. Her pioneering work in fields such as technology, engineering, and the built environment has strengthened the relationship between academia and industry, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to thrive in a fast-changing and competitive economy.
Under Professor Shah’s leadership, BCU has become a trailblazer in fostering innovation and inclusion. Her initiatives in work-based learning programmes and digital transformation have created a dynamic academic ecosystem that empowers both students and staff.
Leadership and Community Celebrated
Professor Hanifa Shah’s impact reaches far beyond academia. Her work embodies the very best of leadership, inspiring innovation, diversity, and inclusion. As an alumnus of BCU, I am proud to see leaders like Professor Shah driving meaningful change. This recognition is a testament to her extraordinary achievements.
Safaraz Ali, Co-Founder and CEO of Pathway Group
This honour reflects the collective efforts of many talented individuals at BCU and beyond. My journey has been shaped by inspiring colleagues, mentors, and students who share my commitment to progress and collaboration. It’s a privilege to receive this recognition and to continue advancing education and innovation.
Professor Shah, expressed her heartfelt gratitude
Professor Shah’s career spans both academia and industry, with leadership roles at BT, Cadbury Schweppes, and Britvic. Her extensive experience has allowed her to bridge the gap between industry and education, fostering employability and innovation at every stage.
The Role of Pathway Group and Collaboration
Pathway Group’s long-standing mission to promote social mobility, diversity, and inclusion was reflected throughout the evening. Professor Shah highlighted the alignment between Pathway Group’s values and BCU’s commitment to fostering equity and creating opportunities. As a trusted partner, Pathway Group continues to build programmes and initiatives that make a meaningful impact on education and the workplace.
Professor Hanifa Shah exemplifies the very essence of transformative leadership. Her ability to bridge academia and industry is creating pathways for individuals to succeed while advancing societal progress. Tonight’s event reminds us all of the power of collaboration and shared purpose.
Abid Khan, Chair of the IoD British Asian Business Special Interest Group
The Chutney & Chat event, celebrating its 9th anniversary this year, highlighted the importance of fostering networks that inspire growth, leadership, and innovation. Organised by Pathway Group, the event brought together leaders from across business and education, creating a powerful platform for collaboration and community engagement.
As the evening concluded, Professor Hanifa Shah’s recognition served as an inspiring reminder of what can be achieved through vision, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to progress. With the support of initiatives like the events and programmes run by Pathway Group, such networks continue to pave the way for a brighter future in education, business, and society.