UK
On Monday Qaisra Shahraz MBE a critically acclaimed novelist, culture champion, and award-winning peace/gender activist won Manchester Culture Award 2023 in the Category ‘The Manchester People’s Culture Award’.
She was recognised for her initiatives, Muslim Women’s Arts Festival and MACFEST (Muslim Arts and Culture Festival) a ground-breaking festival that connects communities, tackles Islamophobia, and breaks down barriers. She is well known for her lifelong passion in championing and celebrating women, youth, community cohesion & building intercultural bridges through literature, arts and cultural heritage.
In the words of the host, ‘This award recognized the work which showed dedication and contribution to creativity in Manchester and achievements taken place over several years.’
Qaisra said ‘I am delighted to win this award, honouring my lifelong work in arts, culture and heritage sector, as an author, and founder and curator of an award-winning festival MACFEST. My passion for bringing communities together, and of course celebrating the cultural heritage of Muslim Diaspora across the UK has been recognised.’
She further added. ‘I want to dedicate this award to all the culture champions, my amazing festival team, our wonderful partners and sponsors for their support and help to make it what it is.’
Her award was presented by Guy Keeble, Regional Sales Director of Manchester Evening New. The winner was chosen by public vote in association with Manchester Evening News.
The Awards organised by Manchester City Council and the gala dinner hosted by Annabel Tiffin, Broadcaster, BBC North West Presenter took place at the famous Aviva Studios in Factory International in Manchester.
And commenting on this year’s awards, Councillor Luthfur Rahman OBE, Deputy Leader, Manchester City Council, said: “Everyone in the running for this award deserves to be recognised for the fantastic contribution they make to culture and creativity in the city. The Manchester Culture Awards are a brilliant reminder of what helps make our city such a great place to be, and the People’s award category is particularly special.’
