22^nd September saw the 2010 Mosaic Talent Programme and Awards short-judging day, accommodated by prestigious law firm Hogan Lovells. The task for our esteemed judges was not an easy one with over 30 finalists from all over the country and beyond. With award categories ranging from Sports to Science and Technology, competition was fierce for this year’s short-listed candidates.

Judging for the Talent Programme and Awards was led by Mosaic’s Chairman, HRH Princess Badiya bint El Hassan with judges from all sectors, including Monawar Hussain DL – Imam at Eton Collge; John May – Chief Executive of Young Enterprise; Professor Jim Al-Khalili – Professor of Physics, University of Surrey and star of BBC television’s Science and Islam series; and, Yasir Mirza – Head of Diversity at the Guardian. Keeping in mind Mosaic’s commitment to recognise, celebrate and nurture the amazing talent of young British Muslims, judging the short-listed candidates proved to be a difficult task for our judges given the diversity of talent showcased during the day.

“There is so much negative commentary and concern associated with young people today, particularly young Muslims, that we often risk missing the tremendous personal achievement and group contributions that are being made across all manner of areas. When I look at the scope and range of those shortlisted, it leaves me in no doubt that there is great drive, enthusiasm and ability in the young people of this country” said HRH Princes Badiya bint El Hassan of Jordan, Chairman of the Mosaic Talent Awards.

This year saw the introduction of two new award categories with the Excellence in Education Award that aims to reward significant input by an individual or organisation which has made an extraordinary contribution to supporting young Muslims and others helping to excel in their education and the Mosaic Mentor of the Year Award that recognises an outstanding volunteer providing mentoring support to students in those schools supported by Mosaic.

John O’Brien, Managing Director of Mosaic and a judge on the day said “the range and variety of candidates was most impressive. and it was a pleasure to see such work being undertaken. There is obviously the prestige and pride that comes from being recognised as a leader in any area and even being shortlisted is a great credit to those who have been.”

The interviews are over, the judges have decided. Who will win? Come to the Mosaic Talent Awards on Tuesday 23 November at the iconic Battersea PowerStation and find out! A select range of tables and seats are still available, starting at £1500 for a table and £175 for an individual seat through the Mosaic website at https://www.mosaicnetwork.co.uk/awards/2010_talent_programme_awards/.