Man of the Year – One Voice Blackburn

1V MAN OF THE YEAR 2026

The 1V Man of the Year should be a role model for the whole community.

He must demonstrate a series of activities or programmes which have made a real difference in his community, and the wider area of Blackburn. He should be notably influential in supporting individuals or communities in gaining a beneficial result. The 1V Man of the Year should spearhead initiatives and events for the betterment of people.

He should show a real passion for his work and seek to positively impact lives and communities. He should be positive, approachable, and understanding towards all members of the community.

This award is open to volunteers as well as paid staff, however the 1V Man of the Year must go beyond his paid role(s) to be considered for this award. Special credit will go to those that are ambassadors in the area of cohesion and integration, and those who seek to promote gender and racial equality, as well as uplifting marginalized communities.

While the award aims to acknowledge the work of candidates in the previous 12 months, it can also be recognition of a continued level of service to the communities.

HERE ARE YOUR 2026 FINALISTS

Jamie
Holman

Jamie Holman is an artist and cultural producer whose work connects communities and heritage across Blackburn. In a town often misrepresented as culturally disengaged, Jamie creates authentic, place-based projects that reflect its diversity. He collaborates with Blackburn Museum, the National Festival of Making, the British Textile Biennial, and the local council, shaping impactful cultural experiences.

Over the past year, his work has extended internationally, linking Blackburn’s heritage with Pakistan through research trips and public art projects. Jamie’s practice fosters inclusion, breaks down barriers, and celebrates Blackburn as a hub of creativity, shared heritage, and cultural pride.

Shiraz
Hussain

Shiraz’s connection to fitness began long before it became his profession. From organising neighbourhood workouts as a child to living a lifestyle rooted in health and discipline, fitness has always been central to who he is. However, it wasn’t until the 2020 lockdowns that his purpose became clear. When friends struggling with their health turned to him for guidance, Shiraz witnessed transformations that went far beyond physical results. As they became stronger and more energised, their mental clarity improved, family relationships strengthened, work performance increased, and their connection to faith deepened.

That experience reshaped Shiraz’s understanding of health. He realised that physical fitness is not an isolated pursuit, but a powerful gateway to emotional balance, mental focus, and spiritual growth. From that moment on, fitness became an act of service.

Today, Shiraz is the founder of a global health program designed specifically for fathers. Through simple, sustainable strategies built on five key principles, he helps men reclaim control of their health without sacrificing the foods they enjoy or neglecting their careers and family responsibilities. For Shiraz, this work is more than a business, it is a mission to strengthen men, families, and communities by building healthier bodies and more purposeful lives.

Anthony
Meara

Anthony Meara, widely known as ‘Turbo’ or ‘Crutchie,’ is a powerful example of resilience and transformation. Once homeless and living on the streets of Manchester, Anthony has turned his life around, overcoming adversity and staying clean for over five months since leaving prison. Committed to giving back, he is recently ran the Blackburn 10K to raise funds and awareness for those experiencing homelessness, especially during the winter months. Supported by friends and mentors who believed in him, Anthony’s story highlights the life-changing impact of compassion, community support, and second chances, inspiring others to overcome challenges and make a difference.

Tabassum (Tabz) Zubair

Tabassum Zubair is an exceptional individual whose contributions to business, community development, and charitable service demonstrate outstanding leadership, compassion, and commitment to others.

During the Covid-19 pandemic, he played a vital role in supporting the UK Government by securing and supplying essential temperature-controlled medical products from multiple international jurisdictions, supporting the care of critically ill patients during a national emergency.

Within the community, he led a seven-year initiative to establish the Al-Buraq Masjid, evolving from a £5,000 charity run into a project raising over £1.5 million. Today, the masjid is a landmark institution promoting unity, understanding, and lasting social benefit.

WINNER 2026

Tabassam Zabier is Man of the Year 2026

Tabassam Zubier was announced as the winner of the One Voice Man of the Year Award 2026, sponsored by The Exchange, in recognition of his exceptional leadership, community service, and lasting contribution to Blackburn and the wider region.

A respected businessman, philanthropist, and community leader, Tabassam has dedicated years to creating positive change through charitable initiatives, community development, and strategic leadership. His commitment to serving others was particularly evident during the Covid-19 pandemic, when he played a key role in securing and supplying essential temperature-controlled medical products to support critical healthcare services across the UK.

Among his most significant achievements is leading the seven-year journey to establish Al-Buraq Masjid. Through determination, vision, and tireless fundraising efforts, Tabassam helped raise more than £1.5 million to create a landmark community institution. Today, the mosque serves as a vibrant hub for worship, education, heritage, and community engagement, featuring the first museum within a mosque in the North of England and inclusive facilities that benefit people of all ages and backgrounds.

“There is nothing better than serving your community. Serving your community is sublime. I would like to dedicate this award to my father who too has been supporting the community for over 30 years,” said a delighted Tabassam.

The 1V Man of the Year Award celebrates individuals who demonstrate outstanding leadership, community impact, and dedication to improving the lives of others. Through his vision, perseverance, and commitment to service, Tabassam Zabier has created a lasting legacy and is a worthy recipient of this year’s award.