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BrumHour creator and previous Birmingham Award Winner, Dave Massey, was a finalist at the 2019 Birmingham Awards.

Via Birmingham Awards

Anita Bhalla OBE named
‘Brummie of the Year’
at fifth Birmingham Awards

Saturday 9th November: The Library of Birmingham was sparkling with red and blue – the brand colours of Birmingham Awards.

This was the fifth Birmingham Awards and the organisers felt such a milestone should be marked by celebrating in one of Birmingham most iconic buildings the Library of Birmingham.

This year’s Brummie of the year was awarded to Chair of Town Hall and Symphony Hall, Anita Bhalla OBE who has transformed Birmingham and beyond.

The night kicked off with a sparkling drinks reception hosted by Bottega Birmingham, in the book rotunda of the Library of Birmingham. 

Hosted by Heart FM’s Ed James who kept the evening proceedings in order with plenty of entertainment. Plus there was live entertainment on the night was provided by Aston Performing Arts Academy. Keynote speaker Midlands Metro Mayor, Andy Street heaped praise on the city and said “the future of Birmingham has never looked so optimistic”.

Five years ago, the organisers set out with a vision to create a platform to bring together the various sectors of the city to collectively celebrate and further unite Birmingham to allow for a dialogue of opportunity and growth. The organisers were proud to see so many new organisations and individuals which is a testament to their original vision.

Birmingham Award’s Co-founder, Anita Chumber said:

We created the awards because we believe that a city of ambitious, vibrant, inspirational people and organisations needs a platform to highlight and celebrate the incredible work being done.”

Ifraz Ahmed, Birmingham Awards Co-founder said:

We are passionate about ensuring that we all come together collectively to celebrate each other. We want to identify and acknowledge the unsung hero, using their stories to inspire others to do the same. Recognition, support, collaboration and celebration are key to our city and region to grow and prosper.”

There was a nice touch when an impromptu pause saw the Birmingham Awards team bring out a cake for one of Birmingham’s most loved individuals, Steve Brittan to congratulate him and his wife Cindy on their 50th Wedding Anniversary, which was well received with applause and a standing ovation.

The Lifetime Achievement Award was awarded to UK’s first lady of soul Jaki Graham. Jaki said:

Thank you so much for my Lifetime Achievement award! To get this recognition from my very own hometown makes this that much more special! It makes me proud to be a Brummie. Congratulations to all the well deserved winners”.

Find out more about Birmingham Awards via their website at: birminghamawards.co.uk