Two British Asians Honoured: A.A. Dhand Awarded Doctor of Letters and Sajid Azeb Wins Outstanding Contribution Award: In a proud moment for the South Asian community in the UK, two leading British Asians—A.A. Dhand, a celebrated crime fiction author and screenwriter, and Sajid Azeb, a transformative NHS leader—have been honoured for their immense contributions to literature and public service, respectively.
Bradford’s Literary Star: A.A. Dhand Awarded Doctor of Letters
The University of Bradford has conferred the prestigious Doctor of Letters degree upon Amit Dhand, popularly known as A.A. Dhand, recognising his remarkable achievements in crime fiction and cultural advocacy.
Dhand, who earned his MPharm from the university in 2002, grew up behind the counter of a family-run corner shop in Bradford. Reflecting on his journey, he said,
“I spent 21 years as a full-time pharmacist. In 2006, I began writing, failing forward for a decade until I landed my first publishing contract in 2016. Now, I’ve authored seven novels, and in 2025, Virdee—based on my third novel City of Sinners—was broadcast on BBC One.”
His Harry Virdee series, deeply rooted in Bradford’s diverse culture, has received critical acclaim and was recently adapted into a hit crime drama. The production created 26 full-time TV roles, including opportunities for two University of Bradford graduates, boosting the local creative economy.
“Writing allowed me to create new, untold worlds—stories where South Asian voices take centre stage. It’s about breaking barriers and opening doors,” Dhand explained.
Despite his fame, Dhand remains committed to Bradford. He frequently participates in the Bradford Literature Festival and recently spoke at the BBC Young Reporter Festival, mentoring aspiring writers.
Healthcare Visionary: Sajid Azeb’s Outstanding Contribution to Bradford
Sajid Azeb, the Chief Operating Officer and Deputy Chief Executive of Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, was presented with the Outstanding Contribution Award, celebrating his deep and lasting impact on local healthcare and communities.
With over 25 years of NHS experience, Sajid began in a clinical role in 2000 before moving into management in 2003, balancing his duties while pursuing an MBA. His leadership style—defined by empathy, strategy, and transformation—has become a model in NHS circles.
Before joining Bradford, Sajid held senior positions at Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, where he led major performance, finance, and service improvements. Today, he is also Chair of the University of Bradford’s MBA Industry Advisory Board, where he nurtures the next generation of healthcare professionals.
“This award is a reflection of the dedication of our entire team,” Sajid said. “Serving Bradford isn’t just my job—it’s my mission.”
Celebrating Representation and Impact
The dual recognition of A.A. Dhand and Sajid Azeb highlights the diverse talent and leadership shaping Bradford’s cultural and healthcare landscapes. Both honourees exemplify what it means to lead with purpose, elevate underrepresented voices, and remain rooted in community.
As Bradford prepares for its City of Culture 2025 spotlight, these two South Asian leaders stand as inspiring beacons—proof that commitment, creativity, and compassion can create lasting change.
