AN Oldham GP is among the winners of the first Greater Manchester Asian Business Leaders Awards.

At the inaugural ceremony held at Vermilion, in Manchester, Dr Zahid Chauhan was given the accolade for 'business solving a social problem' as the founder of Homeless Friendly programme which ensures those without a permanent address get access to quality healthcare.

The event - organised by Oldham's Muzahid Khan and Kashif Ashraf from ABL - highlighted the work of Asian business leaders that have reached national and global success through innovation and leadership.

Other winners on the evening included Khalid Ahmed, of YourUKPharmacy, for innovation; Asad Shamim, of Furniture in Fashion, for successful application of digital media; Dr Zubair Ahmed, from Arlington British Medical Academy, for business growth globally and recognition was for Aneel Mussarat, from MCR property group, who was given an honour for business and philanthropy.

The guest speaker was Tanveer Hussain, head of the overseas banking division at the Bank of England.

On behalf of ABL Muzahid said: “The Asian business leaders awards dinner celebrates the enormous social impact of business which at its best promotes values of leadership and service.

“Tremendous opportunities for social change are created by business leaders through shared values.

“By recognising individuals who embody the leadership ideal, we seek to encourage widespread recognition and adoption of these values among the business community.”

Kashif added: “As a regional stronghold for business and innovation, Greater Manchester has a lot to celebrate.

“We are passionate about shining a spotlight on those businesses that have made an impact but to also celebrate the diversity that makes up the business community of the region and which makes Greater Manchester such a great place to thrive.”

The nominated charity for the evening was Onside youth zones giving young people an opportunity for a brighter future.

Jerry Glover one of the co-founders gave a passionate speech about Onside's work and a raffle and auction raised £7,000 for the charity.

Heather Waters, National Enterprise manager at NatWest, said: “During the six years I’ve spent working in the north west as enterprise manager here at NatWest, I’ve experienced first hand the success that members of the Asian business community have achieved through their commitment to the application of innovative business practices.

“We’re delighted to have sponsored the inaugural Asian Business Leaders Awards and to have the opportunity to recognise and celebrate the vital role the Asian business community plays in the region.”