A successful Bradford entrepreneur who came to the UK not being able to speak any English has been honoured by the Queen.

Zulfiqar Hussain, chief executive of Global Synergy Systems, has been awarded an MBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours for both his services to business and his charitable activities.

Mr Hussain launched GSS six years ago to offer companies a range of business services, including mentoring, leadership development, corporate social responsibility and international trade.

His appointments chairing the European Mentoring and Coaching Council (EMCC UK) Board, chairman of the Regional Investment Development Board (RIDB) for Yorkshire, Humber & East Midlands and chairman of the West Yorkshire Employer Coalition He is a former Social Entrepreneur of the Year, Director of the Year and Volunteer of the Year.

Mr Hussain is also the founder of Global Promise, a not-for-profit organisation that brings together local businesses to make a positive contribution in the communities they serve.

He said “I arrived in Britain from Pakistan unable to speak one word of English but my parents ensured that I got myself an education and they inspired me to be successful. It is a great honour to see my work supporting local businesses and charities recognised by Her Majesty the Queen.”