Members of the Muslim Women's Council were honoured to attend the launch of Leeds Road Festival 2026 at Bradford Live on Sunday 9 August, where they had the privilege of presenting the inaugural Bana Gora Community Award to a truly deserving recipient.

The award has been established in honour of the Muslim Women's Council's beloved co founder and CEO, Bana Gora, recognising her lifelong dedication to serving Bradford and her unwavering commitment to empowering women and strengthening local communities.

We are proud to share that Selina Ullah, former Chair and continuing trustee and co-founder of the Muslim Women’s Council, was named among the finalists for Women of the Year at the British Asian Women Awards 2026.

The awards celebrate women whose leadership, service and contribution have made a meaningful difference across communities in Britain. Selina was named as the winner and the 'Woman of the Year'. For us, this recognition carries particular significance, with Selina dedicating it to the memory of our beloved sister, co founder and CEO, Bana Gora.

The Muslim Women’s Council (MWC) is deeply honoured that our beloved Chief Executive and Founder, Bana Gora, was posthumously presented with the Special Recognition Award 2026 at the BPA Empowering Women Awards, held on Thursday 25 June 2026.

A Message from Our CEO, Bana Gora

Over the past year, at Muslim Women’s Council, we have been blessed to share and deliver projects that brought women together through care, faith, and community. 

From Ammi’s Circle, Ladies Tea and Chat, Nasheed Sounds for the soul group, walk and talk to curry circle and our local, national and international trips and retreats. Daughters of Eve Conference which honoured and celebrated women across our communities, with dignity, compassion, and purpose.

We are deeply shocked and horrified by the recent rape of a young Sikh girl. This appalling act of violence is not only an abhorrent violation of her dignity and humanity, but also a painful reminder of the ways in which racism, misogyny, and power intersect to harm the most vulnerable in our society.

Muslim Women’s Council CEO, Bana Gora, has issued a powerful message from Al Quds in the early hours of Saturday morning, as missiles were heard overhead following reported strikes in the region. The UK-based delegation was in Jerusalem as part of a spiritual and educational visit when the escalation unfolded.

“We came on a spiritual journey but now face the fear Palestinians endure daily. Please keep them, and our group, in your prayers,” Gora said in a video recorded near the Dome of the Rock.

A Proud Moment for Muslim Women’s Council

We’re delighted to announce that our CEO, Bana Gora, has been recognised with the “Here Come the Girls Award” at the 2025 Inspiring Women Awards.

Now in its 33rd year, the awards honour women making a significant difference in their communities and beyond. Bana’s tireless efforts to elevate Muslim women’s voices and create lasting social impact have rightfully earned this recognition.