Grassroots sports charity celebrates Councillor Zaffar Iqbal’s decades of community service

The Birmingham Youth Sports Academy (BYSA) has presented the city’s Lord Mayor, Councillor Zaffar Iqbal, with a “special recognition award” recognising his decades of support for the city’s communities and young people.

BYSA chairman Paul Cadman, speaking at the charity’s 2025/26 End of Season Players Awards in Sparkhill, said Councillor Iqbal exhibited “dedication, dignity and deep commitment” to Birmingham through his engagement with grassroots organisations, faith groups, volunteers and families across the city.

“His support has extended beyond BYSA,” said Cadman as he presented the award. 

“He has recognised the importance of enterprise, opportunity and civic responsibility.

“His story is one of hope, resilience and service, the very qualities we strive to instil in the young people of BYSA.“​​​​​​​​​​​​

A remarkable personal journey

Having arrived in Birmingham as a young boy from Boha, Chakswari in Mirpur Azad Kashmir, Pakistan, unable to speak English, Councillor Iqbal entered the UK education system, overcoming acute dyslexia and going on to achieve a national management qualification and a Diploma in Health and Social Care.

His working life spanned roles as a labourer at Land Rover, delivering meals on wheels and supporting people with visual impairments at Birmingham Focus.

He was appointed a magistrate in 2007 and received an MBE from the late Queen Elizabeth II in 2009 for services to education.

From councillor to first citizen

Elected to Birmingham City Council in 2012, Councillor Iqbal has chaired several scrutiny committees and held senior roles within the West Midlands Fire and Rescue Authority.

He has also fundraised extensively, completing the Inca Trail and walking the Great Wall of China for charitable causes.