An exceptional plumber from Blackburn College has been awarded the top prize at the first ever Asian Apprentice Awards.
As he nears the end of his Apprenticeship with Ash’s Plumbing and Heating Services, 18-year-old Muzamal Ishfaq, 18, of St James’ Road, Blackburn has managed to scoop the prestigious award.
His professional approach and attitude to his Apprenticeship saw him collect his award at a glittering national ceremony held at the Holiday Inn in Birmingham on Thursday 10th November.
The former Witton Park High School student was selected out of a large number of entries for the commitment he has shown to his employer and his Apprenticeship in the Construction category.
Muzamal said: “I felt very surprised when I heard I had won. When I entered the competition and saw how many people I was up against, I didn’t think I stood a chance.
“Much to my surprise, I came out on top and would like to thank my Dad, as well as my tutors at Blackburn College for putting a lot of effort and time into tutoring me. Without them, I would never have won this.”
Muzamal in particular thanked Blackburn College and his tutor Neil Hodgson for his support.
The Asian Apprenticeship Awards are intended to encourage more young people of Asian heritage to consider an Apprenticeship.
450 business people attended the event to celebrate the talent and diversity in apprentices and recognising the employers and learning providers who support and teach them.
The night included entertainment from Bhangra group Eternal Taal who have performed on some of the world’s largest stages including Glastonbury Festival, Bollywood and The Graham Norton Show – as well as comedian Patrick Monahan.
Apprenticeships are a route into training and work in which the Asian community is underrepresented.
The Government is aiming for another three million Apprenticeship starts by 2020, including increasing the proportion of apprenticeships taken up by young people from BME backgrounds by 20 per cent and increasing BME employment by 20 per cent.
