Designed to shine a spotlight on the city’s next generation of changemakers, the competition will celebrate 20 exceptional trailblazers aged 16–25 who are already making a real impact in Bradford, but who have lots more potential. From tech, media, and sport to sustainability, community action, and fundraising, nominations are open across all sectors and specialisms.
At a special Bradford 2025: UK City of Culture legacy event at Bradford Live on Wednesday (11 February) the competition was officially announced to a gathered audience. Hosted by one of Bradford’s BBC New Voices winners, Irene Kaali, the day celebrated the city’s achievements in 2025 and outlined future ambitions.
After a Q&A session and live performances, the ‘20 under 25’ competition was featured as a Bradford 2025 legacy project. Bradford College Vice Principal – Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Alina Khan and BBC Radio Leeds Executive Editor Simon Monk took part in a panel discussion to explore the hope of discovering the city’s next top young talent. A panel of judges will select the final 20 winners who will each receive mentoring and support from Bradford College and BBC Radio Leeds, along with access to influential business networks and an online profile showcasing their work.
Alina said:
“Every day at Bradford College, we see talented young people with the potential to achieve incredible things. But breaking into any industry can be tough — whether you’re an entrepreneur, artist, performer or campaigner. That’s why Bradford College is launching the ‘20 Under 25’ competition.“We want to back the next generation of changemakers — young people with drive, passion and talent — and champion the leaders of tomorrow. If you’re already making an impact but need that extra support to take things to the next level, we want to hear from you.”
Bradford College student Mohammed Ali Adnan exemplifies the inspirational young leaders the competition aims to celebrate. Ali, a wheelchair user living with spina bifida, is a positive role model who motivates peers and actively participates in college life. A 2025 Yorkshire Asian Young Achiever (YAYA) Award winner, he is also a goalkeeper for the Bradford City Disability Football team and hopes to pursue a career in air traffic control.
BBC Radio Leeds Executive Editor, Simon Monk, added:
“I’m so delighted that Bradford College has chosen us to partner with them on this brilliant initiative to help find the 20 people who are going to change the world from right here in the Bradford district.“This is a fantastic piece of legacy that can go on year after year. Bradford 2025: UK City of Culture brought many, many highlights to the city, the college, and us at BBC Radio Leeds, and this is a lovely way to make sure Bradford remains front and centre for the future.”
Nominations can be made by individuals themselves or by others who know a rising star that deserves recognition. Eligible nominees must:
Nominations can be submitted via the Bradford College competition webpage. Entries may be submitted by uploading a one-minute video or by completing the online form, explaining in fewer than 250 words why the nominee deserves recognition. Supporting evidence of their work or achievements to date can also be uploaded.
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