A Birmingham entrepreneur said he was “incredibly proud and still slightly taken aback” after being awarded an MBE for services to diversity and inclusion in business in the King’s New Year Honours List.
Safaraz Ali is the founder and chief executive of Pathway Group, a skills, employability, and career development organisation dedicated to social mobility and measurable social impact.
He is also the founder of the Multicultural Apprenticeship Awards, the managing director of F5 Foster Care – which specialises in supported accommodation and open social care – and the founder and chief executive of business networking platform Pathway2Grow.
Mr Ali said: “Receiving an MBE is a genuine honour and a moment to reflect on the journey so far.
“It’s particularly meaningful because my parents are no longer here to see it, but I know they would have been immensely proud. I am looking forward to sharing some moment with my siblings, wider family, and the colleagues I’ve worked alongside over many years.
“I’ve never approached my work with recognition as the goal. My focus has always been on doing the right thing – building platforms that create opportunity, remove barriers, and deliver real outcomes.
“This recognition doesn’t change that, but it does reinforce the responsibility that comes with leadership, particularly in areas such as skills, social mobility and inclusive growth.”
Mr Ali also paid tribute to his colleagues at Pathway Group and the Multicultural Apprenticeship Awards, saying that the honour reflected “the collective effort of many people”.
Mr Ali was one of several people in the West Midlands honoured for the impact they have on the lives of others.
The Lord‑Lieutenant of the West Midlands, Derrick Anderson CBE, said: “Across the West Midlands, countless remarkable individuals work tirelessly to make our region a better, brighter and more compassionate place. Many are well‑known within their own communities, yet their contributions often go unrecognised more widely.
“This year’s recipients reflect an inspiring range of achievements and offer a glimpse into the character of our region and the people who make it exceptional. We are deeply grateful for all they do, day in and day out, and I am truly delighted to see so many receive the recognition they deserve in the New Year Honours.”
