Scottish Muslim Awards
2026 Highlights
27 September 2026
Scottish Muslim Awards 2026:
The Scottish Muslim Awards 2026 brought together the community for an unforgettable evening of recognition and celebration. The event honoured outstanding achievements across multiple fields, highlighting the remarkable contributions of Scottish Muslims.
Celebrated Winners
Professor Naveed Sattar received the Professional Services Award. A Professor of Metabolic Medicine at the University of Glasgow, Professor Sattar is a clinically active academic specialising in diabetes, obesity, and heart disease research. He has authored over 800 published papers and is recognised among the world’s most cited clinical academics .
Dr Manira Ahmad was honoured with the Al Ihsan Award for Public Service. As Chief Officer at Public Health Scotland, Dr Ahmad has dedicated her career to tackling inequalities and improving health outcomes. Reflecting on the award, she spoke of the importance of collective action, saying: “So much of the work that changes lives happens quietly and often behind the scenes” .
Muminah Koleoso received the Art and Entertainment Award. A Yoruba Nigerian-British Muslim writer, poet, and founder of the Sister Station podcast, Muminah is a multi-award-winning creative who uses storytelling to amplify the voices of Black and Muslim women. She has performed at the Edinburgh International Book Festival and was named one of the Young Women’s Movement’s 30 Under 30 .
Dr Noha El Sakka was recognised with the Medical Services Award. An OBE recipient for her services to the NHS and COVID-19 response, Dr El Sakka served as Virology Specialist Advisor to the Scottish Government and led the development of COVID-19 testing infrastructure in the North of Scotland .
Professor Peter Hopkins was honoured for his work addressing Islamophobia and community research. His research has directly informed Scottish Parliament inquiries, educational guidance on anti-Muslim prejudice, and the Scottish Government’s approach to tackling Islamophobia .
Dr Zarina Ahmad received the Environmentalism Award. A Climate Change Communicator and Trainer with over a decade in the environmental sector, Zarina founded the Ethnic Minority Environmental Network and was named among BBC Women’s Hour’s top 30 influential women in environment .
A Night to Remember
The evening was filled with warmth, pride, and purpose — from reconnecting with familiar faces to forging new friendships. It was a true celebration of the Scottish Muslim community’s excellence and the collective spirit that drives positive change across Scotland.
For media enquiries, interviews, or access to event materials, please contact: salaam@scottishmuslimawards.org