THE important work of the head of the Bradford-based Muslim Women’s Council has been recognised with a special award.

Dignitaries from the city - and further afield - gathered at Bradford City Hall as Bana Gora, chief executive of the charity, received the 2021 Peacemaker Award from the Congregation of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Peace (CSJP) who hail from New Jersey, New York.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: Bana with her award Bana with her award

She is the first Muslim woman to receive the award. Bradford’s Sister Catherine McCormack said Bana “constantly strives to better society”.

Bana said: “Being the first Muslim woman to receive this award makes this very special. Frontline charity leaders like myself are often in the media spotlight for the visible work that we do. But there are so many silent heroes amongst us like Sister Catherine and many others working tirelessly doing some fantastic work, who don’t receive any acknowledgement or accolades, so this award is for all of us”.

The CSJP said her founding of the Muslim Women’s Council, weekly food initiative the Curry Circle, plus the many other things she is involved in, reveal a “kindred heart”. 

They said: “Bana clearly understands the need for societal change that recognises the contribution all women, and in particular, Muslim women have to make to our society.”

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: A special event was held A special event was held

Sister Catherine added: “I feel Bana is a living embodiment of the CSJP Peacemaker Award, as she constantly strives to better society for those less fortunate, emphasising the need for peace and justice in an increasingly fraught world. Although Bana’s organisation is led by Muslim women, their work encompasses all sections of society and benefits those who are marginalised.

"Bana is an inspirational voice for women in Bradford, her interfaith work is greatly appreciated in a multi-faith, multi-ethnic city. She works with untiring effort and great earnestness, building on everything we have in common”. 

Recently-elected CSJP Congregation Leader, Sister Andrea Nenzel (below) from New Jersey, presented the award and a cheque to Bana.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus:

She said: “Bana is a true champion of the poor, of women across society, and uses her work and platform to raise awareness about issues affecting those less fortunate in society. We are delighted to recognise Bana’s work and contribution to the community.”

Bradford Council leader Susan Hinchcliffe said: “Bana is a wonderful person in the Bradford district who does great leadership for us in so many spheres. Acknowledging Bana’s contribution to the work of Muslim Women’s Council globally, not just in Bradford, is wonderful to see”.