A NATIONAL awards scheme has shortlisted an initiative founded by a Keighley man to develop the next generation of British Muslim leaders.

The Professional Muslims Institute (PMI), established by Highfield resident Javed Bashir, is a finalist in the Social Inclusion Group of the Year category for the British Muslim Awards.

The awards presentation takes place on January 30 at The Bradford Hotel, in Hall Ings.

Mr Bashir worked with University of Bradford to set up PMI, and the group was launched at the House of Lords in 2010. Since then it has held at least 50 networking dinners, which have been addressed by inspirational, prominent UK Muslims.

Last year, Mr Bashir was included in the Muslim Power 100 publication, which honours the highest levels of achievement from within the United Kingdom. He was nominated for inclusion in the Trailblazers section of the Muslim 100 Power List for encouraging young professionals to reach their full potential.

Mr Bashir works at Bradford Council, where he helps faith-based supplementary schools develop leadership skills and deliver good quality education while safeguarding the children in their care.

Responding to PMI being shortlisted, he said: "It's great to be recognised. PMI is an innovative project which we've sustained for 10 years, despite not receiving a penny of public funding.

"More than 5,000 people have attended our events and hopefully we can follow this up for another 10 years.

"We always look for speakers who are successful, have contributed to society and are good role models. It's about passing their knowledge and experience on to the next generation."