The 24th Asian Achievers Awards are scheduled for September 18, 2026, at Hilton Park Lane in London, with the shortlist now public. Launched in 2000, the ceremony stands as the United Kingdom’s leading and longest-running recognition of British Asian success in areas such as the arts, commerce, governance and community work. Media partners Asian Voice, Gujarat Samachar and LycaRadio back the event, which maintains its standing for quality and distinction in the community. Pratik Dattani, Managing Director of EPG, noted strong entries this year. Judges sought clear demonstrations of leadership, influence and community contribution. The Arts and Culture nominees highlight talent from South Asian backgrounds in drama, modelling, television, cookery, literature and stage work. Over 500 nominations arrived across eight categories. These include Arts and Culture, Business Person of the Year, Community Service, Entrepreneur of the Year, Media, Professional of the Year, Sports Personality of the Year, Woman of the Year and the Lifetime Achievement Award, to be disclosed on the night. The judging panel features Hallmark Care Homes chairman Avnish Goyal CBE, Parkinson’s UK Chief Executive Caroline Rassell, Lyca Radio Chief Executive Raj Baddhan, Fairgrowth Group founder Rajesh Agrawal, journalist Rishini Weeraratne and former B&M Retail chief executive Simon Arora. Around 600 guests, among them celebrities, executives and international figures, are expected. Nominees for Sports Personality of the Year include Aaron Rai, winner of the PGA Championship. Nikita Pathakji appears in Arts and Culture after winning Great British Menu 2026 and opening her first restaurant in South London in May. Additional nominees are Wrexham AFC Women’s forward Mariam Mahmood, model Neelam Gill and restaurateur Karan Gokani. Community figures and entrepreneurs recognised include London Tigers Chief Executive Mesba Ahmed and human rights academic Professor Sunita Toor. Former EastEnders actor Nitin Ganatra returns as host. Performances will come from Rishi Rich, Ustad Rafaqat Ali Khan and comedian Tez Ilyas. Charity partner Pardada Pardadi supports education, health and economic opportunities for girls and women in Uttar Pradesh, India. The full shortlist covers multiple categories with names such as Anjana Vasan, Pravesh Kumar MBE, Dr Pam Gosal MBE, Tommy Nagra, Dr Zafar Iqbal, Abbas Esufally, Nilofar Jaques, Chaitanya Tatineni, Dipna Anand and others. Winners will be announced at the September 18, 2026 gala. The evening will celebrate the notable contributions of South Asians to Britain’s cultural, economic and social life.
