Nighat Awan OBE will be stepping down as Regional Chairman for Mosaic in the North West. Nighat will continue to be a very active supporter of Mosaic, both nationally and regionally, but is stepping down to be able to focus on key new business ventures and other personal commitments. Nighat has been an inspirational Chairman in the region, bringing in new talent to support the region’s growth, and leaves after the region’s most successful year of delivery to date.

Nighat said: “It has been a challenging year but, without challenge, there is no joy! It has been inspirational and l found it was a two-way track: l myself have learnt so much over this period. You have an amazing person to take my place and I am sure he will add a lot to Mosaic, not forgetting the quality of the other Regional Leadership Group members to support him. I wish Mosaic North West the best for the coming year.”

Nazir Afzal OBE has agreed to accept the invitation to succeed Nighat as Chairman. Nazir is Chief Crown Prosecutor for the North West and has supported Mosaic for many years, most recently as a member of the North West Regional Leadership Group.

Nazir said: “I have always been impressed by the commitment of Mosaic and its volunteers and the difference they make to the lives of so many. I am very much looking forward to working with them to build capacity and confidence in young people, and keep our communities safe.”

Princess Badiya, Chairman of Mosaic, said: “On behalf of Mosaic, I am sincerely grateful to Nighat for her leadership of Mosaic’s work in the North West region. Nighat is a fantastic role model to others, and both the region, and Mosaic generally, have benefitted hugely from her excellent energy and ideas. It is great that Mosaic can continue to rely on Nighat’s support after she steps down as Regional Chairman. I thank her for her commitment to Mosaic, and I wish her every success in her new ventures, inshaAllah.”

Princess Badiya also said: “I am delighted that Nazir has accepted the invitation to become Regional Chairman for Mosaic North West. Given his truly impressive reputation and experience, I have no doubt that Nazir will continue the tradition of great leadership for Mosaic in the region. I know the Mosaic team very much look forward to working with Nazir to build upon the region’s success in supporting young people in fulfilling their positive potential.”

Find out more about Mosaic’s work in the North West