UK
Professor Adeeba Malik CBE DL has etched her name in history as the first ethnic minority woman to be appointed High Sheriff for West Yorkshire. The historic declaration unfolded during a formal ceremony presided over by High Court Judge Sir Nicholas Hilliard at Leeds High Court on Monday, March 25th.
Following in the footsteps of Mr. Zulfi Karim DL, who made history as the first member of the Black and Minority Ethnic (BME) community to hold the Royal appointment in the county, Ms. Malik’s year-long tenure in this non-political and unpaid role continues a tradition spanning over a millennium. The Office of High Sheriff, dating back to Saxon times, represents the Crown’s commitment to upholding matters of judiciary and law and order.
Born in Bradford to Pakistani immigrants, Ms. Malik has devoted her career to fostering social and economic opportunities for underprivileged communities. She expressed her deep honor in assuming the role and her eagerness to serve her home county by acknowledging the tireless efforts of individuals and organizations dedicated to the betterment of West Yorkshire.
With a distinguished track record spanning 27 years across Whitehall and various boards in Bradford, Yorkshire, and nationally, Ms. Malik has been a leading advocate for the socially disadvantaged. As a Board Member of the Home Office Strategic Race Advisory Board and Director of the Bradford Culture Company, among other roles, she has shaped government policies and facilitated integration.
Her contributions have earned her numerous accolades, including the MBE and CBE, recognizing her significant impact on mainstream public bodies. Dr. Mohammed Ali OBE, CEO of the QED Foundation, commended Ms. Malik’s appointment as a testament to the vision of ethnic minorities playing vital roles in Britain’s social and economic fabric.
Through her achievements and contributions, Ms. Malik exemplifies a beacon of progress and inclusivity in West Yorkshire and beyond.
