The Bangladesh Caterers Association (BCA) celebrated its BCA Awards 2025 at the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge Hotel in London.
The glittering ceremony, which took place on 9th November, brought together senior dignitaries, ministers, Members of Parliament, community leaders, and industry representatives to celebrate excellence within the Bangladeshi catering sector.
Her Excellency Abida Islam, High Commissioner for Bangladesh to the United Kingdom, also attended the event. Other guests included Rt Hon Sir Stephen Timms, MP for East Ham; Rt Hon Seema
Malhotra, MP for Feltham and Heston, who delivered a keynote address and presented an award; Lord Rami Ranger CBE; Foysol Choudhury MBE MSP Member of the Scottish Parliament for Lothian; Kevin Bonavia, MP for Stevenage; Mike Reader, MP for North Northampton; Mr Virendra Sharma, former MP for Southall; Keith Best former MP; Baroness Sharon Taylor OBE; Dr Rupa Huq, MP for Ealing Central and Acton; Howard Dower, Deputy Mayor of London, and entrepreneurs Iqbal Ahmed OBE and Muquim Ahmed.
The annual BCA Awards recognise the outstanding contributions of chefs, restaurateurs, and community figures who have showcased Bangladeshi cuisine and hospitality across the United Kingdom.
This year, 12 Chef Awards and 13 Restaurant Awards were presented, alongside special Honour Awards for
M.A. Muquim, for his exemplary leadership and contribution to the British Bangladeshi catering community and Baroness Sharon Taylor OBE, for her dedication to promoting diversity and community engagement in public life.
Oli Khan MBE, president of the Bangladesh Caterers Association, said:
“The BCA Awards are not merely a celebration of success, but a tribute to hard work, resilience, and passion. The Bangladeshi catering industry has been a cornerstone of British multiculturalism for over half a century. Tonight, we honour the men and women whose culinary excellence continues to shape Britain’s food landscape and cultural identity.”
Mitu Chowdhury, Secretary General of the BCA, added: “Our members have not only sustained an industry of heritage and flavour, but also contributed significantly to the UK economy and community life. The BCA remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting, training, and advocating for our restaurateurs and chefs as they face the challenges and opportunities of a changing industry.”
Atik Rahman BEM, convener of the BCA Awards 2025, said: “We are proud to host yet another successful BCA Awards evening, uniting the best of our community under one roof. It is inspiring to see so many accomplished professionals recognised for their innovation and service. We thank all our guests, sponsors, and partners for their continued support.”
Delivering her address, Her Excellency Abida Islam, High Commissioner of Bangladesh, congratulated the winners and the BCA leadership, saying:
“The success of the Bangladeshi catering industry is a remarkable example of the positive impact of our diaspora. The BCA and its members have carried forward the rich culinary traditions of Bangladesh while contributing to the multicultural fabric and economic strength of the United Kingdom.”
The ceremony concluded with a formal dinner showcasing the finest in South Asian cuisine, accompanied by live performances celebrating the shared heritage between Bangladesh and Britain.
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