Leeds business talent rewarded at ABDN bash

Last week's Annual ABDN Dinner and Business Awards was a glitzy, energetic and entertaining affair by all accounts. Now in its 11th year the dinner also included a special business matchmaking element to help guests generate new leads and opportunities.

The event, hosted by comedian, Kulvinder Ghir from the popular sketch show 'Goodness Gracious Me' boasted a high profile, national, business audience including solicitors, accountants, representatives from Business Link and the Institute of Directors; as well as local entrepreneurs. Speeches were delivered by Imran Hakim, creator of I-Teddy, Jules O'Dor, head of enterprise for Business Link, Terry Hodkinson, chairman of Yorkshire Forward and Amin Fahim, Pakistan's commerce minister. Presenter and comedian, Hardeep Singh Kholi provided the evening's entertainment.

Sharing the Success sponsored two awards including Young Entrepreneur of the Year and Female Entrepreneur of the Year. Jimmy Sydney of Sydney Bridge took the title of Young Entrepreneur for his not for profit furniture recycling enterprise based in Gipton. Holistic and beauty therapist, Anna Rayner scooped best female. Both have had support from the Sharing the Success programme particularly Urban Biz and the Milun Centre.

Other winners included Akbars - Business of the Year, Mumtaz - Brand of the Year, Game Frontier - Media/Entertainment Business of the Year and Elite Top Guard -  Small Business of the Year. A special Lifetime Achievement Award went to Balbir Panesar, md of PEC Building Services and president of Bradford Chamber.

A specialist team of business matchmakers helped introduce guests to others in the audience they would like to meet. Connections can then be maintained through the ABDN LinkedIn service online.

Simon Brereton, programme manager from Sharing the Success presented the awards to Anna and Jimmy. He spoke of their drive and determination and gave credit for the challenges they have overcome to reach their goals.

Over £2,000 was raised on the night for the Yorkshire Society.

For further details on ABDN or to see more pictures visit www.abdn.org.uk.

(Pictured top: Kulvinder Ghir, Jimmy Sydney, Simon Brereton. Bottom: Anna Rayner with her award for Female Entrepreneur of the Year)