Leadership through service.
The work — across forums, youth football, public-health campaigns, faith communities and the airwaves of east Birmingham.
Forums, doorsteps and decisions.
Through the Alum Rock Community Forum and grassroots networks, Mr Ali has championed residents on housing, policing, planning and local services. He believes the people closest to a problem are usually closest to its solution — and his job is to make sure their voices reach the rooms where decisions are made.
Giving young people something to belong to.
A former science teacher who founded JABS B8 FC — a junior football academy that has given hundreds of young people structure, mentors and a sense of pride. Recognised with the WMPCC Community Award, the club is also a pipeline into volunteering, leadership and aspiration.
Closing the health gap, one conversation at a time.
By day a senior oncology engagement professional at Bayer; by evening a trusted community voice on vaccine confidence, screening, and the new Heartlands £150,000 Cancer Appeal. His health work is rooted in one belief: no community should be left behind because the message never reached them in their language.
Bringing people together.
From interfaith iftars to cross-community partnerships, Mr Ali's work has always cut across faith, ethnicity and background. Birmingham's strength is its diversity — and his leadership is built on bringing people into the same room, the same project, and the same future.
Aap Ki Awaaz Radio Birmingham.
A regular presenter on Aap Ki Awaaz Radio — community wellbeing, public-health information and civic conversation in English, Urdu, Punjabi and more. A platform for residents to be heard, and for important information to actually reach the people who need it.
Service, recognised.
JABS B8 FC won the West Midlands Police & Crime Commissioner (WMPCC) Community Award under his leadership. The recognition belongs to the volunteers and young people — but it stands as proof that grassroots leadership, done well, changes lives.