ABC Awards 2026 Finalists

Changing Lives is a national charity with North East roots, supporting people affected by homelessness, poverty, addiction, abuse and other complex challenges. Through accommodation, recovery, employment and specialist services, it helps individuals build stability, independence and lasting positive change.

Foundation of Light is the independent official charity of Sunderland AFC. Using the power of football, education and community engagement, it delivers programmes that improve health, skills, employment prospects and wellbeing for children, adults and families across the North East.

Harbour Support Services is a specialist North East charity helping individuals and families affected by domestic abuse. Through confidential advice, safety planning and practical support, it works to protect people, rebuild confidence and promote lives free from violence and abuse.

Middlesbrough FC Foundation is the official charity of Middlesbrough Football Club, using football's influence to create opportunities across Teesside. Its education, health and inclusion programmes support young people, families and communities while raising aspirations and encouraging participation.

IncluScape is a workplace inclusion consultancy founded by Jacky Stansfield Smith. It helps organisations build neurodiversity-aware, supportive environments through training, workplace needs assessments, inclusive HR advice and practical changes to everyday working practices.

Nabeela Ali is a former Newcastle City Councillor who represented Monument ward, championing community engagement, neighbourhood improvement and civic participation. During her time in local government, she supported grassroots initiatives, including a weekly community litter-picking programme that brought residents together to promote environmental responsibility and civic pride. Passionate about volunteering, public service and community development, Nabeela continues to advocate for stronger neighbourhood connections and positive change across Newcastle.

ZAK Properties is a North East-based property investment and development company founded by entrepreneur Zak Hussain. With over 20 years of property market experience, the business manages a diversified portfolio of more than 200 properties valued at approximately £35 million. Specialising in residential, commercial and specialist accommodation developments, ZAK Properties has established a strong reputation for quality, strategic investment and project delivery. Through its commitment to regeneration, innovation and long-term partnerships, the company continues to create value and contribute to property development across the North East and wider UK.

Autopark UK, founded in 2012 by Rahul Chowdhry and Jim Chowdhry, is one of the North East’s leading car supermarkets, recognised for its commitment to quality, customer service and business excellence. With a stock of approximately 250 vehicles and a workforce of over 50 employees, the company has achieved consistent growth and national industry recognition, including a nomination for Car Supermarket of the Year 2026. Through entrepreneurial vision, innovation and customer-focused leadership, Rahul and Jim continue to drive Autopark UK’s success and contribute to the regional economy.

Jabir Ahmed is a Senior Relationship Manager at HSBC Commercial Banking, specialising in supporting businesses through financial challenges, strategic decision-making and sustainable growth. With expertise in commercial banking, financial management and client relationship development, he is committed to helping businesses achieve their ambitions. Passionate about supporting enterprise and improving access to finance, Jabir champions trusted partnerships, business resilience and economic development, contributing to the growth and prosperity of the North East business community.

Roya Ghassemi is the Founder and CEO of Napchi Ltd, a UK-based digital health startup focused on improving access to sleep support through human-centred technology. With over 20 years of entrepreneurial experience across multiple sectors, she is passionate about making sleep health information more accessible and easier to navigate. Working alongside clinical, technical and business experts, Roya is committed to developing evidence-informed digital solutions that prioritise user experience, responsible innovation and meaningful real-world impact.

Talentheads is a North East-based recruitment and people consultancy committed to inclusive employment, business growth and community impact. With Advanced Level SHINE Accreditation across all five SHINE Beams, the organisation has helped create over 600 local jobs and upskill more than 750 employees. Through innovative recruitment initiatives, employer partnerships and charitable contributions, Talentheads continues to break down barriers, create meaningful career opportunities and champion a people-first approach to sustainable business success.

A Growth Hub Business Advisor and founder of WiNGS and FemTech North, she brings over 15 years of experience supporting businesses and entrepreneurs across the North East. Through her work with RTC North, the National Innovation Centre for Ageing and the North East Mayoral Strategic Authority, she has championed inclusive entrepreneurship, innovation and business growth. Passionate about women's health and equal opportunities, she works to break down barriers, improve access to funding and empower entrepreneurs of all ages and backgrounds.

Mehru-Nisa Shah has over 30 years of experience working with marginalised communities, including five years in the VCSE sector with Haref (Health and Race Equality Forum). She is passionate about tackling health inequalities, amplifying underrepresented voices, and advocating for systemic change to improve health and wellbeing outcomes across Newcastle and Gateshead.

Children North East supports babies, children, young people and families across the region. Through mental health services, family support, youth programmes and its Poverty Proofing approach, the charity works to remove barriers, strengthen communities and help every child grow up healthy and happy.

NEPACS is a long-established North East charity supporting people affected by imprisonment and the wider justice system. Through prison visitors' centres, family services, youth support and resettlement assistance, it helps individuals and families maintain connections and navigate difficult circumstances.

Rape Crisis Tyneside and Northumberland is an independent specialist charity supporting survivors of sexual violence, primarily women and girls aged 13 and over. It offers free, confidential counselling, helpline support, advocacy and group services across Tyne and Wear and Northumberland.

The Moses Project is a Stockton-on-Tees charity supporting adult men affected by addiction and difficult life circumstances. Through mentoring, practical assistance, meals and positive relationships, it helps individuals rebuild confidence, access support and work towards more stable futures.

The Female CEO is an independent, female-founded magazine and global business community created by Tricia Scott. Through stories, resources and connections, it champions women's voices, increases visibility and encourages female entrepreneurs to grow their businesses with confidence.

Councillor Khaled Musharraf is a community-focused public representative serving Elswick on Newcastle City Council. First elected in 2024 and re-elected in May 2026, he is committed to community engagement, social inclusion and environmental responsibility. Drawing on his Bangladeshi heritage and personal experiences, Khaled champions greater diversity in local government, neighbourhood improvements and community participation. Through his advocacy and public service, he works to strengthen community connections and ensure residents' voices are heard in shaping the future of Newcastle.

Fazal Sweet Centre is an established South Asian food business based in Fenham, Newcastle upon Tyne, specialising in traditional sweets, savoury snacks and bakery products. Renowned for its authentic flavours and diverse selection of delicacies, the business celebrates South Asian culinary heritage while serving Newcastle’s multicultural communities. Through its commitment to quality, traditional food preparation and customer service, Fazal Sweet Centre continues to preserve cultural traditions, support the local economy and contribute to the North East’s vibrant independent food and retail sector.

Dr Amar Ajay Chotai is a Consultant Interventional Neuroradiologist, musician and singer-songwriter dedicated to healing lives through medicine and music. With over 2,000 procedures performed, he specialises in treating life-threatening neurological conditions, combining clinical expertise with compassionate patient care. An accomplished performer, Amar has appeared at prestigious venues including the Royal Albert Hall and Trafalgar Square. Through his medical career and musical achievements, he continues to inspire, connect and bring hope to people, championing the power of compassion, resilience and human connection.

Angelee Pandit is a learning and development professional with expertise in strategic leadership, people development and organisational transformation. Currently working within KPMG’s Managed Services environment, she champions innovative learning solutions that drive business performance and professional growth. Passionate about empowering women in the workplace, Angelee advocates for mentorship, career progression and inclusive leadership. Through her commitment to diversity, innovation and community development, she continues to create meaningful opportunities and positive change across the region.

TSOG is a North East-based design and build company specialising in high-quality residential and commercial projects. From bespoke interiors and fit-outs to complete property transformations, the company delivers tailored solutions from concept to completion. With a strong commitment to craftsmanship, attention to detail and quality, TSOG combines thoughtful design with expert execution to create exceptional spaces built to last.

Genee Consulting Ltd is a North East-based environmental consultancy specialising in sustainability and environmental improvement. Through its delivery of the nationally recognised Investors in the Environment accreditation scheme, the organisation supports businesses in strengthening their environmental performance, adopting sustainable practices and demonstrating their commitment to environmental responsibility.

Together for Children Sunderland (TfC) is a not-for-profit organisation committed to improving the lives of children, young people and families. With a strong focus on equity, diversity and inclusion, TfC promotes inclusive leadership, staff engagement and community partnerships. By championing equality, breaking down barriers and fostering a culture of belonging, the organisation continues to create positive change for its workforce and communities across Sunderland and the North East.

Shabnam Ali is a dedicated community volunteer and fundraiser with over 15 years of involvement in the DATE Project. Alongside her full-time career and raising three children, she actively supports charitable causes, including refugee relief, cancer awareness and orphan welfare. Passionate about giving back, Shabnam is driven by her belief in kindness, generosity and the positive impact of helping others.

Team Fostering is an independent, not-for-profit fostering agency providing safe, nurturing homes for children and young people. Operating across the North East, Yorkshire and East Midlands, it recruits, trains and supports foster carers while placing children's wellbeing at the centre of its work.

EDGE NE has worked with young people affected by serious youth violence, gangs and criminal exploitation. Its mentoring and creative engagement initiatives have aimed to provide safer choices, trusted support and pathways towards education, employment and more positive futures.

NE Youth is a North East youth development charity helping young people access positive experiences, support and opportunities. Through direct programmes and its network of youth organisations, it promotes confidence, inclusion, achievement and stronger connections within local communities.

Footprints in the Community is a Redcar and Cleveland charity addressing poverty, isolation and wellbeing. Through its foodbank, community café, family assistance and other local projects, it provides compassionate, practical support to individuals and families facing hardship.

Smile For Life Children's Charity supports disabled and disadvantaged children and young people across the North East. Through opportunities, experiences, practical assistance and work placements at Café Beam, it helps young people gain confidence, independence and enjoyment in life.

Sultan Miah is a dedicated public service professional working within the Positive Action Team at Northumbria Police, championing diversity, inclusion and equal opportunities in policing. Through community engagement, recruitment initiatives and tailored guidance, he supports individuals from underrepresented backgrounds in exploring careers within the police service. Passionate about breaking down barriers and improving representation, Sultan contributes to building stronger community relationships, fostering public trust and creating a more inclusive and accessible police service across the North East.

Oseyo is one of the UK’s leading Korean and Asian food and lifestyle retailers, recognised for its innovative approach to retail and cultural diversity. Since launching in 2015, the company has expanded across the UK, opening its largest store at Newcastle’s Eldon Square in 2026. Offering an extensive range of authentic products and interactive cultural experiences, Oseyo combines retail innovation with customer engagement. Through its continued growth and investment in the North East, the company contributes to the region’s retail landscape, economic development and cultural vibrancy.

Dr Nitam Narkhede is an experienced dental professional with over 25 years of expertise in cosmetic, aesthetic and restorative dentistry. Currently practising at Grangetown Family Dental Health Centre in Sunderland, she specialises in smile transformations, Invisalign and patient-centred dental care. With extensive international experience and postgraduate qualifications, Nitam is passionate about helping patients achieve confidence through compassionate treatment. Beyond dentistry, she is an award-winning artist who supports charitable causes, contributing to the wider North East community.

My Delhi is an award-winning Indian street food brand founded in Newcastle upon Tyne in 2019 by entrepreneur Elahi Shah Amin. From a single restaurant, it has expanded across the UK, earning national recognition for its authentic Delhi-inspired cuisine, innovation and hospitality. With accolades including BBC Two’s *Britain’s Top Takeaways*, My Delhi combines entrepreneurial ambition with a strong commitment to community support through charitable initiatives and local partnerships, showcasing the North East’s vibrant business and cultural landscape.

Metrocentre is one of the UK’s largest shopping and leisure destinations, located in Gateshead. Home to over 270 stores and a wide range of dining and entertainment experiences, it plays a significant role in the North East’s economy, supporting thousands of jobs and attracting millions of visitors annually. Beyond retail, Metrocentre is committed to sustainability, community engagement and social responsibility, supporting local charities, employment opportunities and initiatives that create a positive impact across the region.

Gentoo Group is a Sunderland-based, not-for-profit housing association providing homes for 60,000 customers. Committed to improving lives and strengthening communities, Gentoo invests in quality housing, essential services and local initiatives. Through its dedicated workforce and customer-focused approach, the organisation continues to create safe, welcoming homes and thriving communities across Sunderland.

Dance City is a registered charity and leading dance development organisation based in Newcastle upon Tyne. For almost 40 years, it has promoted accessibility, inclusion and community wellbeing through dance. Offering classes, performances, training and outreach programmes, Dance City supports people of all ages and abilities, nurtures emerging talent and strengthens community connections. Through creativity and collaboration, it continues to enrich lives and contribute to the North East’s vibrant cultural landscape.