"Ten awards were presented to an impressive group of individuals whose careers and contributions reflect the breadth of British Asian success."
From the worlds of business and entrepreneurship to media, food, culture, law and community activism, the evening recognised achievements that extend far beyond balance sheets and professional titles.
John Digwa, Founder and Managing Director of Showbiz International, has shaped South Asian entertainment in Britain for over 25 years. He has financed and promoted major live concerts featuring stars including Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan and Lata Mangeshkar, strengthening cultural connections and bringing celebrated Indian performers to British audiences.
Poulomi Desai is an artist, curator, filmmaker and founder of Usurp Art Charity. For over four decades, she has championed equality through creativity and activism. She co-founded Shakti and the Naz Project, supporting marginalised communities, and creates opportunities for underrepresented artists through exhibitions, mentoring, residencies and inclusive local community initiatives.
Parul Goel is Zee Entertainment’s Territory Head for Europe and Chief Financial Officer for Europe and the Americas. Since joining Zee in 2007, he has supported international expansion and the development of ZEE5, combining commercial and financial leadership to connect audiences with South Asian entertainment, languages, stories and cultural heritage.
Divia Thani is Global Editorial Director of Condé Nast Traveller, leading editorial strategy across international editions and print, digital and multimedia platforms. With over two decades in publishing, she champions responsible tourism, sustainability and authentic cultural experiences, encouraging travel that supports local communities while shaping influential storytelling for global audiences.
Neev Spencer is an award-winning broadcaster, DJ and presenter with over 20 years in radio, including KISS FM and Magic Radio. A prominent British Asian media voice, she champions women’s empowerment and maternal mental health, drawing on her experience of postnatal depression to raise awareness and support national charitable causes.
Rishi Patel is Founder and CEO of Interpolitan Money P.L.C., an international payments and foreign exchange company. Combining finance, technology and entrepreneurship, he develops solutions that make cross-border transactions more transparent and efficient. His leadership emphasises innovation, strong governance and customer service, supporting businesses and individuals engaged in global commerce.
Rakesh Prajapati is Founder and Principal Solicitor of RakLAW Solicitors, a London law firm. Admitted in England and Wales in 2013, he specialises in civil litigation, family and immigration law. His approach combines practical advice, transparent communication and ethics with mentoring, community legal education and support for pro bono initiatives.
Asma Khan is the founder of London’s Darjeeling Express, an acclaimed chef, restaurateur and author. The first British chef featured on Netflix’s Chef’s Table, she champions Indian culinary heritage. Her all-female kitchen creates opportunities for migrant and underrepresented women, promoting skills, confidence, financial independence and greater workplace inclusion within hospitality.
Sukhpal Singh Ahluwalia is a British entrepreneur and founder of Dominvs Group, a family-owned investment and development company. After building a successful automotive business, he expanded into property, hospitality and investment. His career reflects entrepreneurial resilience, commercial judgement and a commitment to people, relationships and responsible business growth across sectors.
CB Patel, editor and publisher of Asian Voice and Gujarat Samachar, has dedicated decades to serving Britain’s Indian community. Since taking over Gujarat Samachar in 1976, he has championed community concerns, celebrated achievement and preserved cultural heritage, using journalism and public engagement to strengthen lasting connections between Britain and India.
Reema Mavani, Director of KYLU Limited, transitioned from technology leadership to building a multi-restaurant McDonald’s franchise business across London. She champions women’s progression, apprenticeships and employee development while supporting local communities. Her reinvention earned the British Franchise Association’s New Direction Franchisee of the Year Award, recognising her achievements in franchising.
Raised for Yuva Unstoppable
With proceeds from the evening supporting the charity through the Vascroft Foundation, the awards' chosen charity partner.
That remarkable figure demonstrated something important about the audience in the room. Achievement and philanthropy are not separate ideas. The same individuals who build companies, create employment and lead organisations can also use their success to create opportunities for others.
It gave the evening a deeper meaning. This was not simply a celebration of what the British Asian community has achieved; it was also a demonstration of what it can give back.
The Founders' Vision
"The evening was the proudest night of my career, reflecting on the significance of seeing the ten award recipients celebrated on stage and witnessing the generosity shown towards Yuva Unstoppable. I am delighted to confirm that The APEX Awards will return in 2027."
"I was struck by the extraordinary achievements of British Asians in Britain and the vital importance of giving those achievements the recognition they deserve. The £350,000 charitable contribution demonstrated the true character of the room."
That may ultimately be the defining characteristic of The APEX Awards.
It is about acknowledging the entrepreneurs who built businesses, the professionals who excelled in their fields, the cultural figures who shaped perceptions, the community leaders who made a difference and the individuals who quietly opened doors for those coming after them.
The inaugural event has established the platform.
The challenge and the opportunity now is to build upon it.
The APEX Awards Returns In
And if the first chapter is anything to go by,
this is only the beginning.
Official Supporters
The inaugural awards were supported by Ravenscroft Health, Finance House Limited, DUA Accountancy & Business Consultancy, Ragasaan, Language Interpreters Ltd and Sow & Reap, with Cloud Apartments as Featured Partner, Ting as Marketing Partner, Sunrise Radio and London Daily as Media Partners, Lux Callibrate as Spirits Partner and Pinnova as Party Partner.
