Bradford School of Art dancer wins Young Achiever award 

The Yorkshire Asian Young Achievers awards is the first scheme of it’s kind to recognise the efforts of South Asian young people in Yorkshire. Mohammed Saeed, 19, from Bradford, has been crowned the winner of the Achievement in Arts and Creative Industries award at the Yorkshire Young Achiever (YAYA) Awards. 

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The award was presented to Mohammed at a gala awards night on 17 November at the Cedar Court Hotel in Bradford. Over 30 nominees were in competition for the ten award categories. 

The YAYA awards celebrate young people aged 16 – 30 of South Asian heritage who were born or live in Yorkshire and who have overcome challenges and barriers in order to achieve success in their chosen fields. 

The organisers of the event, the QED Foundation, are a registered charity aiming to improve the social and economic position of disadvantaged communities. Supported by York St John University, the headline partner, they share a common goal of helping young South Asian people to be recognised for their achievements and contribution to their communities and beyond. 

Mohammed originally found his passion for dance at Dance United Yorkshire, a charity that provides dance opportunities for young people in Bradford. His talent and dedication means he has now progressed onto studying a Foundation Degree in Performing Arts at Bradford College.

Helen Linsell, Artistic and Executive Director of Dance United Yorkshire, said: 

 “All the team at Dance United Yorkshire are incredibly proud of Saeed’s achievement. This is a well-earned and thoroughly deserved award and we are delighted that he has been recognised for his talent and progression within the arts.  

Saeed has always been a pleasure to work with and it has been a privilege to watch him grow as a dancer, performer and a young adult.” 

Saeed has faced numerous challenges over the years but has demonstrated such focus and stoicism, never allowing his passion to falter. He has been a true asset to our organisation and we could not be happier that he was the recipient of this award.” 

His talents extend beyond the stage, Bradford School of Art Head of Department, Leanne Burnley, expresses her joy at this impressive win: 

“Saeed has been at the college for six years now, and in that time, he has shown an exceptional level of commitment and dedication to his studies and personal development.  

He has taken on every opportunity presented to him, and has gained an array of skills in all areas of the industry. We are incredibly proud of Saeed and could not be happier that he has won this award, he deserves it!” 

Mohammed’s story is an inspiration to young people everywhere. He shows that with hard work and determination, anything is possible. 

If you’d like to know more about studying FdA Performing Arts at the Bradford School of Art, visit bradfordcollege.ac.uk