Bradford-based Manningham Housing Association (MHA) is on a remarkable run of success after being shortlisted for five national awards. Locally, MHA has also been praised for its proactive partnership approach in responding to the issue of sexual exploitation of children and young people in the community.
Earlier this month, MHA board member Khalida Ashrafi won the Lifetime Achievement accolade at the prestigious Diversity in Housing Awards in Birmingham, organised by 24housing magazine. Khalida said, “I’m really honoured and humbled to be recognised by this amazing award. I thank Mannigham Housing Association for nominating me. I hope I am able to put my experience and skills to good use as a member of the Board, and feel very excited about the future here, and how we may move forward supporting the inclusive needs of communities in the area.”
Mark Lawrence, 24housing Editor, said, “Khalida’s track record speaks for itself. The work she has done in various sectors to promote and better the lives of BME communities in the UK has been incredible. Judges praised her for not only making the case outside of the communities, but bringing those communities with her while making that case.
“A worthy winner and someone who epitomises what Lifetime Achievement is all about.”
The association was also shortlisted in both the Gender Equality and Leading BME Organisation categories, with MHA nominee Mohammed Tausif reaching the final stage for the Community Role Model Award.
Barrington Billings, Chair of the MHA Board, said, “All of us have worked incredibly hard to sharpen the focus of the association and the Board has never been stronger.
“The same can be said for our staff at all levels who are determined to succeed individually and collectively as a team.
“This is evidenced by the recent external successes including my colleague Khalida Ashrafi winning the Diversity in Housing Lifetime Achievement Award. We are incredibly proud of her.
“We have a number of exciting announcements coming up in the months ahead. It is a wonderful time to be part of MHA.”