For over 30 years, Najma has worked with some of the most disadvantaged and under-represented communities across Greater Manchester and beyond. With lived experience, deep community roots, and a background in Management Studies and Community Leadership, Najma has designed and delivered projects that tackle health inequalities, promote wellbeing, and celebrate diversity through creativity and collaboration.
Najma is the Founder and Director of the Women’s CHAI Project CIC (Care, Help and Inspire), which she established in 2011 inspired by her lived experience of domestic abuse. What began as a small voluntary initiative over a cup of chai has grown into a thriving organisation supporting more than 150 women each week through 10 community groups. The project empowers women to build confidence, develop awareness of contemporary issues, strengthen family connection, and drive social change.
Najma is also the curator of the Oldham Khushi Festival – the Festival of Happiness, celebrating South Asian arts, culture, and heritage, and bringing communities together through joy and creativity.
Her leadership extends across numerous boards and advisory groups including the Focus Trust, Oldham Council Cultural Partnership Board, ensuring that seldom-heard voices influence change.
Through various projects, Najma has raised awareness of health and wellbeing locally, nationally and internationally.
Najma’s dedication to community development was recognised with an MBE in the 2022 Queen’s Birthday Honours and an Honorary Master’s Degree from The Open University in 2018.
Through her lifelong commitment, Najma continues to inspire, empower, and connect communities — building bridges and shaping a more inclusive society.
Najma was commissioned as a Deputy Lieutenant in 2025.