Burnley Muslim group given award by Prince Charles

4:40pm Thursday 27th November 2008

Comments (1)   Have your say »

A BURNLEY community group was presented an award for excellence for their work with young people by the Prince of Wales.

Positive Prospects won the Community Leadership category at the Mosaic Talent Awards for excellence in London.

The ceremony was dedicated to the positive contributions made to society by young Muslims.

Ishtiaq Mohammed collected the award on behalf of the group, which is based in Daneshouse.

He said: “It was a cracking night and to be honest we didn’t expect to win.

“The real prize should go to the young people we have the privilege to work with.”

Positive Prospects work in areas of Burnley of high unemployment and deprivation focusing on setting a good example for young people.

Based on a peer-led model the organisation highlights the dangers and consequences of drug taking and dealing.

John O’Brien, managing director of Mosaic, said: “As well as highlighting and recognising the positive impact on communities that young Mus-lims can have, these awards demonstrate the tremendous influence that such strong relationships between businesses and communities can have on young people.”

The Prince of Wales was joined by HRH Princess Badiya bint El Hassan of Jordan at the Natural History Museum.

Ishtiaq said: “We are now looking to extend our work in the Burnley area. We are hoping to start more projects and reach out to more young people because that is the area we are passionate about making a real difference in.”

Mosaic is a Muslim led initiative working to break down barriers across British society, convened by Business in the Community (BITC), one of The Prince’s Charities.