Unity CEO receives OBE in New Year Honours List

The Board and staff of Unity Homes and Enterprise warmly congratulate our Chief Executive, Ali Akbor, after he was awarded an OBE in the New Year Honours List.

Ali, who joined Unity in January 1999, was honoured for services to the community in Leeds.

Commenting on the news, Ali said: “I am deeply humbled to receive this award, which is something I never envisaged. I regard it as recognition for the work that Unity staff and Board members – past and present – have done over more than three decades.

“I am part of a team, this is a team achievement and I trust each team member feels suitably proud. There can be no greater honour for me than to work with them.

“From a personal perspective, I also want to thank my family and friends for their support and encouragement over the years. They have always been there for me and we will celebrate this special moment together.”

Shruti Bhargava, Chair of Unity, commented “Huge congratulations to Ali, its brilliant recognition and well deserved. The Board is very proud”

Tom Riordan, Chief Executive of Leeds City Council, was one of the first to pay tribute to Ali.

He said: “This prestigious honour is thoroughly deserved. Ali has played a prominent role in improving the lives of so many people in Leeds and beyond over many years.

“Alongside the provision of decent homes, he understands that social and economic regeneration, access to life opportunities and the removal of equality imbalances are essential for local communities to thrive.

“I am delighted for him and his family.”

And so is everyone at Unity – WELL DONE ALI!